In an era of football defined by "the sack race" and instant results, the role of the long-term manager has become a rare, almost mythical phenomenon. Today, the average tenure of a manager in Europe's top leagues has shrunk to less than two seasons. Yet, a select group of "architects" continues to defy the trend, proving that stability can be the ultimate competitive advantage.
From the legendary 26-year dynasty of Sir Alex Ferguson to the modern-day endurance of Frank Schmidt, this article explores the figures who have stood the test of time and become synonymous with their clubs.
Who is the longest-serving manager of all time?
While modern fans point to Sir Alex Ferguson or Arsène Wenger, the all-time record belongs to Jimmy Davies.
Jimmy Davies: He managed the Liverpool-based club Waterloo Dock for an incredible 50 years (1963–2013).
Fred Everiss: Within the professional English Football League, Everiss holds the record for his 46-year tenure at West Bromwich Albion (1902–1948).
Longest-Serving Managers Currently Active (2026)
In the current European landscape, two names stand far above the rest in terms of longevity at a single club.
1. Frank Schmidt (Heidenheim)
Appointed on September 17, 2007, Frank Schmidt has been in charge of Heidenheim for 18 years and 4 months.
2. Diego Simeone (Atlético Madrid)
Since December 2011, "Cholo" has been the face of Atlético.
Top 10 Longest-Serving Managers in the Premier League
The Premier League's "stability table" has changed significantly following the departures of Jürgen Klopp (2024) and recent sackings like Ruben Amorim (Jan 2026).
| Rank | Manager | Club | Appointed | Tenure Length |
| 1 | Pep Guardiola | Manchester City | July 2016 | 9 Years, 7 Months |
| 2 | Mikel Arteta | Arsenal | Dec 2019 | 6 Years, 2 Months |
| 3 | Thomas Frank | Tottenham* | Jan 2026 | 1 Month (Previous: 7 Years at Brentford) |
| 4 | Marco Silva | Fulham | July 2021 | 4 Years, 7 Months |
| 5 | Eddie Howe | Newcastle | Nov 2021 | 4 Years, 3 Months |
| 6 | Unai Emery | Aston Villa | Nov 2022 | 3 Years, 3 Months |
| 7 | Andoni Iraola | Bournemouth | June 2023 | 2 Years, 8 Months |
| 8 | Oliver Glasner | Crystal Palace | Feb 2024 | 2 Years |
| 9 | Arne Slot | Liverpool | June 2024 | 1 Year, 8 Months |
| 10 | Fabian Hürzeler | Brighton | July 2024 | 1 Year, 7 Months |
Note: Thomas Frank recently moved from Brentford to Tottenham.
While he is new to Spurs, his total continuous years as a PL manager (7+) make him one of the most senior figures in the league.
Manchester United Focus: Post-Amorim Era
Following the sacking of Ruben Amorim on January 5, 2026, Manchester United is once again searching for the "next Sir Alex."
The Longest Reign: Sir Alex Ferguson remains the benchmark with 26 years (1986–2013).
Who is most likely to replace Ruben Amorim? As of early February 2026, the frontrunners are Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace) and Julian Nagelsmann (Germany National Team). Interim manager Darren Fletcher is currently overseeing first-team duties.The "Unsackable" Elite: Managers Never Sacked
In a brutal profession, a tiny minority of elite coaches have never faced the ignominy of being fired.
Pep Guardiola: Has always left clubs (Barcelona, Bayern, Man City) on his own terms.
Didier Deschamps: Has a clean record across Monaco, Juventus, Marseille, and the France National Team.
Iconic Longevity by Club
Real Madrid: Miguel Muñoz (1960–1974) remains their longest-serving manager at 14 years.
Arsenal: Arsène Wenger holds the modern record with 22 years.La Liga History: Diego Simeone surpassed Muñoz in 2025 to become the league's all-time longevity king.