10. Nereo Rocco – 2 Titles
Club: AC Milan (1963, 1969)
Rocco introduced “catenaccio,” a defensive system that emphasized an impenetrable backline and swift counterattacks. This strategy was revolutionary in the 1960s and became the hallmark of Italian football for years. In 1963, AC Milan defeated Benfica 2–1 in a tense final, with José Altafini scoring twice to overturn an early deficit. Rocco’s system not only neutralized the attacking threat of Eusébio but also showcased Milan’s ability to adapt under pressure. In 1969, Rocco returned to the European stage, leading Milan to a dominant 4–1 victory over Johan Cruyff’s Ajax. This triumph cemented his legacy as one of the pioneers of defensive mastery in football, blending discipline with moments of attacking brilliance.
9. Miguel Muñoz – 2 Titles
Sponsored
Club: Real Madrid (1960, 1966)
Muñoz played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s European dominance, first as a player and then as a manager. In 1960, his side obliterated Eintracht Frankfurt 7–3 in a final that remains one of the greatest games in football history. With Alfredo Di Stéfano and Ferenc Puskás scoring hat-tricks, Muñoz’s Madrid epitomized attacking football at its peak. By 1966, a generational shift had occurred, yet Muñoz adapted, creating a younger team that combined flair with grit. The 2–1 victory over Partizan Belgrade was a testament to Muñoz’s ability to evolve tactically and his mastery of blending youthful energy with the traditions of Madrid’s winning mentality.
8. Helenio Herrera – 2 Titles
Club: Inter Milan (1964, 1965)
Herrera’s Inter Milan perfected the “catenaccio” system, which emphasized defensive solidity complemented by precise counterattacking. In 1964, Inter faced the mighty Real Madrid, featuring Di Stéfano and Puskás. Herrera’s tactical setup nullified their attacking threats, leading to a 3–1 victory. A year later, Inter overcame Benfica in a rain-soaked final where a single Jair goal secured the trophy. Herrera’s motivational skills were legendary, often psyching up his players with bold statements and psychological strategies. His innovative approach to fitness, preparation, and tactics made Inter Milan the dominant force in Europe during the mid-1960s and earned him the nickname “Il Mago” (The Wizard).
7. Béla Guttmann – 2 Titles
Club: Benfica (1961, 1962)
Guttmann’s Benfica revolutionized attacking football in the early 1960s. In 1961, Benfica shocked Barcelona with a 3–2 win in the final, showcasing their high-tempo pressing and offensive versatility. Eusébio became the team’s talisman, and under Guttmann’s guidance, they dominated Europe. The 1962 final against Real Madrid was even more dramatic, with Benfica coming from behind to win 5–3. Guttmann’s fearless attacking philosophy was matched by his larger-than-life persona. However, his infamous “curse” upon leaving Benfica—claiming they wouldn’t win another European trophy for 100 years—added an air of mystery to his legacy and continues to haunt the club.
6. Luis Carniglia – 2 Titles
Club: Real Madrid (1958, 1959)
Carniglia presided over one of Real Madrid’s most potent attacking eras, managing stars like Alfredo Di Stéfano and Raymond Kopa. The 1958 final against AC Milan was a thrilling affair, with Madrid securing a 3–2 win after extra time, thanks to the resilience and brilliance of Di Stéfano. In 1959, Carniglia’s Madrid faced Reims, a repeat of the inaugural European Cup final, and emerged victorious with a 2–0 win. His ability to manage egos and maintain harmony in a star-studded team was crucial. Carniglia’s Real Madrid not only won but also entertained, embodying the club’s ethos of attacking excellence.