Crazy Time: Since its inception in 2014, the Indian Super League (ISL) has seen some of the most brilliant and influential managerial minds take charge of clubs. These tacticians have not only shaped the destinies of their teams but also played a crucial role in elevating the overall quality and competitiveness of the league.
Managers serve as the backbone of a club, orchestrating strategies and guiding players toward achieving consistent success. While many have come and gone with short stints, a select few have left an enduring legacy through their longevity and achievements in the ISL.
Here’s a look at the five managers with the most matches in ISL history.
5. Juan Ferrando – 78 Matches
Crazy Time: Spanish head coach Juan Ferrando comes in at number five for the most games managed in ISL history. Ferrando, known for his tactical awareness and commitment to an attacking style of football, managed 78 matches during his time with FC Goa and ATK Mohun Bagan. Though he only won a Durand Cup trophy with Goa, his best stint came at ATK Mohun Bagan, where he led the team to the 2022-2023 ISL Championship and secured his second Durand Cup title in the 2023-2024 season. The 43-year-old’s ability to adapt his tactics and commitment to quality football made him a standout figure in ISL management.
4. Owen Coyle – 90 Matches
Crazy Time: Irish manager Owen Coyle holds the fourth spot with 90 games managed in the ISL. He made an immediate impact by revitalizing Chennaiyin FC in the 2019-20 season, guiding them to the ISL final. Though they fell short against ATK Mohun Bagan, Coyle earned widespread praise for his leadership. He later transformed Jamshedpur FC, leading them to win the ISL Shield in the 2021-22 season. Known for his adaptability and motivational skills, Coyle is currently back with Chennaiyin FC and will be eyeing his first ISL title to solidify his legacy in Indian football.
3. Manolo Marquez – 100 Matches
Crazy Time: Breaking into the top three is Spanish coach Manolo Marquez, who recently crossed the 100-match mark in the ISL. His transformative spell at Hyderabad FC began in the 2020-21 season, culminating in the club’s maiden ISL title in 2021-22 with a 4-2 win over Kerala Blasters in the final. Now at the helm of FC Goa and also managing the Indian national team, Marquez is widely respected for promoting young talent and playing an attractive, possession-based style of football. He continues to be one of the league’s most influential tacticians.
2. Antonio Lopez Habas – 112 Matches
Crazy Time: Antonio López Habas stands second on the list, holding the distinction of being the only manager to win two ISL titles. With 112 games managed, the Spanish tactician became a cult figure through his successful stints with Atletico de Kolkata, Pune City, and ATK Mohun Bagan. Known for his pragmatic and disciplined approach, Habas led ATK to title wins in the inaugural 2014 season and again in 2019-20. Currently coaching Inter Kashi in the I-League, his legacy as one of the most influential figures in Indian football remains strong.
1. Sergio Lobera – 114 Matches
Crazy Time: Leading the chart is Sergio Lobera, the current head coach of Odisha FC, with 114 ISL matches managed. Widely admired for his attacking philosophy and tactical excellence, Lobera made a lasting impact with FC Goa—winning the 2018-19 Indian Super Cup—and famously guided Mumbai City FC to a historic domestic double in 2020-21, claiming both the ISL title and League Winners’ Shield. Known for building cohesive and attacking units, Lobera continues to shape his legacy at Odisha FC, who currently sit 3rd in the standings. His influence cements him as one of the greatest ISL coaches ever.
