Europe: Four out of six major international trophies won by Spanish coaches

Spanish football is no longer defined solely by its players or distinctive playing style. Its coaches now command center stage at the pinnacle of international football. Of the six major competitions—namely the Champions League, Europa League, Europa Conference League, World Cup, Club World Cup, and Nations League—Spanish tacticians have claimed victory in four.Spanish coaches.

The first symbol of this success is Luis Enrique. The Paris Saint-Germain manager led his team to the 2025-2026 Champions League title, adding a third major European trophy to his collection after his triumph with FC Barcelona in 2015 and his first title with Paris in 2025. He thus became only the fifth coach in history to lift the Champions League trophy three times.

Unai Emery, the ultimate Europa League reference

In the Europa League, Unai Emery once again cemented his reputation as a specialist. The Spanish tactician guided Aston Villa to the title in 2026, securing his fifth trophy in the competition—a record for any manager. This latest victory underscores an exceptional longevity at the highest level of European football.

De la Fuente, world champion

The third trophy is arguably the most prestigious of all. Luis de la Fuente led Spain to World Cup glory in 2026. La Roja defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final, clinching their second World Cup after their 2010 triumph.

This victory also rewards De la Fuente’s consistency, having already guided Spain to the Nations League title in 2023 and the European Championship in 2024.

Martínez rounds out the Spanish quartet

The fourth trophy is the 2025 Nations League, won by Roberto Martínez with Portugal. The former Belgium manager had already made a name for himself on the international stage before bringing Portugal another major title.

Together, these four coaches showcase the breadth of the Spanish school: Luis Enrique and Emery at the summit of club football, De la Fuente and Martínez excelling in international management.

A dominance that stands out

This achievement is all the more remarkable considering the two remaining trophies eluded Spain: the 2026 Europa Conference League was won by Crystal Palace under Austrian coach Oliver Glasner, while the 2025 Club World Cup went to Chelsea under Italian Enzo Maresca.

Four trophies out of six: the numbers tell the story. Spain is now exporting its tactical expertise to the very top benches of world football.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

Related teams and leagues

Spain

Paris Saint-Germain

Aston Villa

Portugal

World Cup

Champions League

Europa League

UEFA Nations League A

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