Which Premier League managers have also coached National Teams?

From Gareth Southgate to Roberto Martinez, many high-profile managers have balanced careers between club football and international management. In the modern football landscape, the Premier League stands as the pinnacle of domestic competition, attracting elite coaches from across the globe. However, not all of them have built their reputations solely in club football. Several Premier League managers have also held the reins of national teams, a dual experience that adds valuable perspective to their tactical approaches and leadership styles. Join us as we break down which Premier League managers have also managed national teams, exploring how their time in international football shaped their club careers and vice versa.

Gareth Southgate - From England U21 to Senior Squad

Premier League Experience: Middlesbrough

National Team: England

Gareth Southgate is a prime example of a manager whose national team career eclipsed his club managerial spell. He managed Middlesbrough from 2006 to 2009 but gained global recognition as the head coach of the England national team, leading them to the semifinals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020. Southgate's calm demeanor, focus on youth development, and tactical adaptability have become hallmarks of his management style. Although he has not yet returned to club football, his trajectory makes him one of the most recognizable figures to transition between club and country.

Roberto Martinez - Club Tactician Turned National Strategist

Premier League Experience: Wigan Athletic, Everton

National Teams: Belgium, Portugal

Roberto Martinez made his mark in the Premier League with spells at Wigan Athletic, where he won the FA Cup in 2013, and Everton, where he implemented an expansive style of play. His transition to international management with Belgium proved to be highly successful, guiding them to a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup. In 2023, Martinez took over as manager of Portugal, aiming to maximize the final years of Cristiano Ronaldo’s career. His fluid attacking philosophy has remained consistent across both club and international settings.

Roy Hodgson - The Veteran of Both Worlds

Premier League Experience: Liverpool, Fulham, West Brom, Crystal Palace, Watford

National Teams: Switzerland, UAE, Finland, England

Roy Hodgson’s career is among the most diverse in football management. With experience across Europe and the Middle East, Hodgson managed the England national team from 2012 to 2016, including campaigns at Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup. Prior to that, he had also taken charge of Switzerland, the UAE, and Finland. In the Premier League, he is known for his stabilizing influence and tactical discipline, traits that made him a valuable asset for clubs facing relegation battles. His understanding of both club and national team dynamics is virtually unparalleled.

Steve McClaren - From Manchester United’s Bench to England’s Hot Seat

Premier League Experience: Middlesbrough, Newcastle United

National Team: England

Steve McClaren’s career path took him from being Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Manchester United to the England national team manager. His spell with England (2006-2007) was infamously short, ending in failure to qualify for Euro 2008. Nonetheless, McClaren enjoyed success with Middlesbrough, leading them to a League Cup win and a UEFA Cup final. His brief tenure with Newcastle was less successful, but his international experience remains a noteworthy chapter in his career.

Claudio Ranieri - A World-Renowned Journeyman

Premier League Experience: Chelsea, Leicester City, Fulham, Watford

National Team: Greece

Claudio Ranieri is best known for leading Leicester City to their fairy-tale Premier League title in 2016, but few remember his short stint as Greece's national team coach. Hired in 2014, his time with Greece was disastrous and ended after just a few matches. Despite this, Ranieri’s legacy remains intact thanks to his multiple successful club spells across Europe. His tactical pragmatism and ability to unite underdog squads have made him a favorite among fans.

Marcelo Bielsa - The Philosopher Coach

Premier League Experience: Leeds United

National Teams: Argentina, Chile

Marcelo Bielsa’s revolutionary football philosophy made a significant impact at Leeds United, where he guided them back to the Premier League. Before his club success in England, Bielsa had already made waves as the manager of Argentina and Chile. His meticulous planning, high-pressing tactics, and commitment to attacking football became trademarks during his time with both nations. Bielsa’s national team tenure was key in shaping his managerial identity.

Erik ten Hag - International Experience Behind the Scenes

Premier League Experience: Manchester United

National Team Experience: Netherlands U21 (Assistant)

While Erik ten Hag has not yet managed a senior national team, his background includes working with the Netherlands U21 setup as an assistant. This early experience helped mold his approach to developing young talent, something he has continued at both Ajax and Manchester United. Though not a full international manager, his involvement at the national youth level adds a valuable layer to his resume.

What You Should Know About Premier League Managers with National Team Experience

• Gareth Southgate transitioned from Middlesbrough to managing England
• Roberto Martinez coached both Belgium and Portugal after Premier League spells
• Roy Hodgson managed four national teams and multiple Premier League clubs
• Steve McClaren led England after club success with Middlesbrough
• Claudio Ranieri had a brief stint with Greece before Premier League glory
• Marcelo Bielsa managed Argentina and Chile before taking over at Leeds
• Erik ten Hag worked with the Netherlands U21 team before his Premier League rise