Ranking the Top 10 Greatest French Football Managers in History: Masterminds of the Game

9. Michel Hidalgo

Teams managed: Menton & France

During a period of adversity for the French national team, Michel Hidalgo played a pivotal role in rejuvenating their fortunes. Following their disappointing first-round exit at the 1978 World Cup, Hidalgo led the team, spearheaded by Michel Platini, to the semi-finals of the 1982 edition. There, they suffered a dramatic loss to West Germany on penalties after a thrilling 3–3 draw in extra time, ultimately finishing the tournament in fourth place.

Just two years later, Hidalgo guided Les Bleus to European Championship glory on home soil, securing a 2–0 victory over Spain in the final in Paris. This triumph marked France's first major international trophy. Known for his team's exhilarating style of play, often referred to as 'champagne football', Hidalgo also earned recognition as the architect of the French "carré magique" (magic square). This creative and skilled four-man midfield, comprised of Platini, Alain Giresse, Jean Tigana, and Luis Fernandez, epitomized Hidalgo's innovative approach to the game during the 1980s.

The most fascinating aspect of Hidalgo's career is that he was a manager for only eight years. Yet, his ability to foster a winning mentality within the French team ensures his legacy will endure. With France securing two World Cups and another European Championship since his tenure, Hidalgo's impact on the sport is undeniable. His short but impactful tenure as a revered football manager truly solidifies the adage that 'the rest is history'.

8. Jean-Claude Suaudeau

Teams managed: Nantes

When discussing the greatest French managers, it's crucial to highlight those who led successful club teams. FC Nantes, with their eight Ligue 1 titles, hold a prominent place in French football history. The 1994-95 team, in particular, remains unforgettable under the stewardship of Jean-Claude “Coco” Suaudeau, who translated his playing career successes into coaching for the same club where he spent nine years.

In his first season as coach, they clinched the league title and achieved a remarkable 32-game unbeaten streak, a record yet to be surpassed. The team featured talents like Claude Makelele, Christian Karembeu, Patrice Loko, and Reynald Pedros, forever enshrined as the legacy of Coco's leadership.

7. Robert Herbin

Teams managed: Saint-Etienne, Lyon, Al-Nassr, Strasbourg & Red Star

Robert Herbin, recognizable for his distinctive red hair and reserved demeanor earning him the nickname "Le Sphinx," had an illustrious career where success seemed to find him rather than the other way around. As a player, he amassed five league titles and three Coupe de France trophies with Saint-Etienne. Remarkably, within four years of his last cup win as a player, he guided the same club to three consecutive league titles as their coach.

Adding to his accolades, Herbin's coaching career saw him capture three out of four Coupe de la Ligue titles available, lead Saint-Etienne to the Champions League final against Bayern Munich, and secure a fourth league crown in 1981. Despite these triumphs, his tenure ended on a bitter note when he failed to prevent fierce rivals Lyon from relegation after leaving his coaching position.