Few managers in football history have influenced the game like Marcelo Bielsa. Revered for his tactical intellect and admired for his unwavering principles, Bielsa has left his mark across South America and Europe. From club football to the international stage, the Argentine has coached some of the sport’s finest talents. But who left the biggest impression on El Loco?
In a rare moment of reflection, Bielsa named the four most talented players he’s ever had the privilege of working with during his long and storied career. Unsurprisingly, they’re all Argentine legends who helped define an era of flair, intelligence, and uncompromising passion for the game.
“I coached Ariel Ortega, a crack who was unique,” Bielsa said, referring to the mercurial forward who dazzled for River Plate, Valencia and Argentina during the 1990s and early 2000s. Ortega’s dribbling ability and unpredictability made him a fan favourite — and clearly, unforgettable to his former coach.
“Pablo Aimar, another version of an unforgettable player,” Bielsa continued. Aimar was the cerebral playmaker admired not only by Bielsa but also by players like Lionel Messi, who once called Aimar his idol. With vision, technique, and elegance, Aimar lit up the pitch for clubs like Valencia and Benfica.
“Juan Sebastián Verón, again, another unforgettable player.” Known for his powerful midfield presence, Verón brought leadership and technical mastery to Bielsa’s Argentina setup. A mix of grace and grit, Verón’s career included spells at Lazio, Manchester United, and Inter, with standout performances on the international stage.
Bielsa also paid tribute to a defensive stalwart: “I also coached some extraordinary defenders, like Roberto Ayala.” One of the most reliable centre-backs of his generation, Ayala captained Argentina and enjoyed success with clubs like Valencia and Milan. His reading of the game and positional awareness made him a cornerstone of Bielsa’s defensive line.
In summary, Bielsa reflected fondly:
“The Argentina team that I coached had outstanding players.”
A Glimpse Into Bielsa’s Philosophy
It’s no surprise that Bielsa’s favourites were not just talented, but deeply intelligent footballers. Each one — Ortega, Aimar, Verón, and Ayala — was known not only for technical brilliance but also for their deep understanding of the game, something that Bielsa values perhaps more than anything.
For Bielsa, football has always been about more than talent — it’s about decision-making, movement, and playing with courage and personality. And in these four players, he saw all of that in abundance.
Who would make your list of Bielsa’s best-ever players? Let us know in the comments.