The anticipation is building in the world of football as the nominees for the Best FIFA Coach Awards 2023 have been revealed.
Among the distinguished candidates are Sarina Wiegman, Emma Hayes, and Pep Guardiola, each leaving an indelible mark on the sport in their own right.
Sarina Wiegman, who currently manages the England women’s national team, claimed the women’s award last year following the Lionesses’ triumph at Euro 2022.
Wiegman’s stellar coaching abilities were further recognized when she was named the UEFA Women’s Coach of the Year in August.
Emma Hayes, manager of Chelsea, is also a contender for the Best Women’s Coach award.
Hayes led Chelsea to victories in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and the Women’s FA Cup last season, showcasing her tactical prowess and leadership skills.
Completing the women’s shortlist is Jonatan Giraldez of Barcelona. His coaching acumen played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s success, making him a worthy nominee for the prestigious accolade.
In the men’s category, Pep Guardiola headlines the list of nominees. The Manchester City manager guided his team to an outstanding Treble, securing the Premier League, FA Cup, and the elusive Champions League title in the 2022-23 season.
Joining Guardiola on the shortlist are Simone Inzaghi of Inter Milan and Luciano Spalletti of Napoli. Inzaghi and Spalletti have demonstrated their coaching prowess, contributing to their respective teams’ success during the nominated period.
Sarina Wiegman’s recognition extends beyond her national triumph as she continues to make waves in the football world. Emma Hayes, despite preparing to depart Chelsea at the end of the season, stands as a testament to her ability to lead teams to victory on multiple fronts.
Pep Guardiola’s inclusion is no surprise, given his remarkable achievements with Manchester City, culminating in a historic season that will be remembered for years to come.
The Treble-winning feat showcased Guardiola’s tactical brilliance and ability to mould a winning team.
The winners of the Best FIFA Coach Awards 2023 will be announced on Monday, 15 January, at a ceremony in London.
The women’s award considers performances from 1 August 2022 to 20 August 2023, while the men’s award evaluates accomplishments between 19 December 2022 to 20 August 2023.
Recognizing excellence between the goalposts, England’s Mary Earps and Manchester City’s Ederson have been shortlisted for the best women’s and men’s goalkeeper awards, respectively.
Best Women’s Coach shortlist
Jonatan Giraldez (Barcelona)
Emma Hayes (Chelsea)
Sarina Wiegman (England)
Best Men’s Coach shortlist
Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)
Simone Inzaghi (Inter Milan)
Luciano Spalletti (Napoli)
The ceremony promises to be a celebration of their outstanding contributions to football during the specified evaluation periods.
