Telê Santana

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Telê Santana stands as one of the most celebrated managers in Brazilian history, renowned for his unique ability to instill a sense of joy and creativity in his teams. His induction into the Brazilian Football Museum's Hall of Fame cements his status as a cultural icon. He was ranked #20 on 90min.com's list of the Top 50 Great Managers of All Time in 2019 and appeared on SI.com's list of the 50 Greatest Football Managers of All Time in 2025. His influence extends beyond trophies; he shaped the tactical evolution of modern football, inspiring generations of coaches including Pep Guardiola.

AwardsSantana won the Copa Libertadores in 1992 with São Paulo FC and the Campeonato Brasileiro in 1991 and 1992. He also secured the Saudi Professional League and Saudi Cup titles during his time managing in the Middle East. Posthumously, he was inducted into the Brazilian Football Museum's Hall of Fame and ranked highly on lists of the greatest managers of all time by various publications.

Honours & Distinctions

Hall of Fame Induction

Brazilian Football Museum·2006

Posthumous induction recognizing his contribution to Brazilian football.

Ranking on Top 50 Managers List

90min.com·2019

Ranked #20 among the greatest managers of all time.

Rankings & Lists

#20

Top 50 Great Managers of All Time

90min.com·2019

#Included

50 Greatest Football Managers of All Time

Sports Illustrated·2025

Records & Feats

Most Influential Manager of Joga Bonito Era

Career Milestone·1982

Defined the attacking philosophy that influenced modern football tactics.

First Manager to Win Copa Libertadores and Saudi League

Career Milestone·1995

Achieved top honors in both South America and the Middle East.