The success of Chelsea’s teams since 1905 has been greatly influenced by who the manager is at each point. The manager’s decisions about players, tactics, longevity and legacy, and other important strategies play different roles in the eventual outcome of each season for the team. Let’s dive into the rich history of this franchise’s greatest managerial records without further ado. Some of these managers have been singled out for their unforgettable feats in the club. Here is a breakdown of the greatest Chelsea managers of all time. Although different individuals have different rankings as to who should be regarded as one of the greatest, these rankings are also based on different metrics and priorities as it suits them.
Honorable Mentions
Although they might not be the greatest Chelsea managers ever, some coaches are worthy of mention. The first person to manage the team in August 1905 was John Tait Robertson. He was a pioneer who witnessed the club’s humble beginning. Tait led the Blues from the sidelines until November 1906 and is remembered for laying the foundation for the giant that Chelsea has eventually become. They did not have a foreign manager for almost a century after its inception.
Ruud Gullit was the first foreign coach to lead the UK-based club when he became the manager in May 1996. The Dutch manager was good at what he did and was responsible for one of the team’s earliest forms of versatility. He left the club in February 1998. Despite the odds and the culture of Chelsea to replace underperforming coaches within a short period, David-Calderhead managed the team for twenty-five years and two hundred and twenty days. He could stay afloat for that long due to his beliefs and strategies, which comprised a lot of resilience. He coached the team from August 1909 till 1933.
Not all managers have put smiles on fans’ faces. Frank Lampard, who used to be a legendary player for Chelsea, was given the chance to manage the team. However, he recorded a relatively low number of wins. His underperformance remains the lowest winning percentage (9%) Chelsea has ever recorded.
Top Five Greatest Chelsea Managers
These are the five greatest franchise managers of all time based on the trophies they won for Chelsea during their tenure.
- José Mourinho (2004-2007, 2013-2015)
Jose Mourinho is, without a doubt, one of the greatest Chelsea managers in the club’s history He contributed immensely to their trophy cabinet, making him one of the unforgettable legends of the club. During his time as the manager, Chelsea won three Premier League titles, one Champions League title, one FA Cup, and one Community Shield. The club won eight trophies in the space of five years. His tactical and leadership skills transformed the team into a dominant force.
- Carlo Ancelotti (2009-2011)
Carlo Ancelotti has outperformed most of his counterparts in team management, guaranteeing him a spot as one of the greatest Chelsea managers of all time. He is a talented coach who is arguably the greatest of all time. During his two-year stay at Chelsea, he won one Premier League title, one FA Cup, and one Community Shield. His attacking style and player development brought immense success to Stamford Bridge.
- Antonio Conte (2016-2018)
Antonio Conte, a coach known for his fierce and firm decision-making, has earned a mention in the debate for the greatest Chelsea managers ever. The club procured one Premier League title and 1 FA Cup with incredible winning streaks. His famous 3-4-3 formation and tactical discipline revitalized the team.
- Thomas Tuchel (2021-2022)
Tuchel was a committed coach who won the hearts of fans and players by winning the coveted Champions League title for Chelsea. He also secured the UEFA Super Cup and the Club World Cup as their coach. Tuchel’s tactical acumen and quick adaptability made the team soar, making him one of the greatest Chelsea managers ever.
- Claudio Ranieri (2000-2004)
Veteran coach Claudio Ranieri is the last but not the least in the ranking of the greatest Chelsea managers of all time. He won an FA Cup and one community shield. Ranieri is often credited with laying the foundations for Mourinho’s success.
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