What Makes a Good International Manager?

Luis de la Fuente and Lionel Scaloni's remarkable success in the 2022 World Cup has sparked a renewed debate on what makes a good international manager. Both coaches have never managed a top-flight club game between them, yet they have transformed the fortunes of Spain and Argentina, respectively. Their success differentiates them from most other managers who have won international tournaments in recent years, where club-level pedigree often takes precedence.

Argentina hadn't won a major tournament in a quarter of a century when Scaloni took over from Jorge Sampaoli in 2018. Scaloni, who was part of the coaching staff under Sampaoli, has built a winning team that has won the Copa America either side of the last World Cup. His ability to adapt to different circumstances, to defend deep, dominate the ball or play on the break, has become a feature of Argentina's approach during his reign. Scaloni's tactical flexibility and ability to read games have also been key factors in their success.

De la Fuente, on the other hand, is aiming to add a World Cup to Spain's European Championship triumph in 2024, having kicked off a winning era for the country by clinching the Nations League only six months after replacing Luis Enrique in 2023. De la Fuente's approach to building team spirit has been crucial in their success, with players praising his leadership and ability to get everyone pulling in the same direction. His time working in Spain's youth ranks, including stints as U19 and U21 coach, has given him a deep understanding of the players and their strengths.

Argentine players have also highlighted the importance of Scaloni's man-management skills, with Emi Martinez crediting him with creating a sense of unity and togetherness in the team. Scaloni's ability to get the best out of his players has been a key factor in their success, particularly in high-pressure situations. His remit differs from De la Fuente's, as his team has been built to platform one star player in Lionel Messi. However, Argentina's collective spirit is similarly striking, with players praising Scaloni's ability to make everyone feel valued and important.

Thomas Tuchel, a high-profile appointment by England, has been unable to replicate the success of Scaloni and De la Fuente, despite his elite-level experience in club football. Tuchel's reliance on individual brilliance, rather than collective efforts, has been criticized as a factor in their exit. His confrontational nature, which has manifested in his comments after matches, also threatens to undermine his tenure. In contrast, Scaloni and De la Fuente have demonstrated a level of tactical acumen and ability to adapt to different situations that has been lacking in other international teams.

So, what makes a good international manager? Scaloni and De la Fuente's success suggests that it's not just about the club-level pedigree or reputation, but about their ability to build strong relationships, foster trust, and get the best out of their players. Their success has implications for other countries, who may need to reevaluate their approach to international management. It's no longer just about attracting high-profile coaches, but about finding individuals who share the same values, work ethic, and vision.

As we move forward, it's essential for countries to adopt a more nuanced approach to selecting managers, considering factors beyond club-level experience. Scaloni and De la Fuente's success story serves as a reminder that, with the right leadership, anything is possible, even in the high-stakes world of international football.