The 2015-16 Premier League trophy was secured by Leicester City under the guidance of Claudio Ranieri, a result frequently cited as a definitive upset in professional sports history. This accomplishment marked a distinct peak in a career characterized by long-term movement across European football, spanning roles in Italy, Spain, England, France, and Greece.
Early Career and Domestic Success
Born in Rome in 1951, Ranieri initially pursued a career as a professional defender, making six appearances for Roma before spending significant tenures at Catanzaro, Catania, and Palermo. He transitioned into management in the late 1980s, beginning at Vigor Lamezia and Campania Puteolana. His first notable impact occurred at Cagliari, where he achieved successive promotions from Serie C1 to Serie A. Subsequent stints at Fiorentina yielded a 1993-94 Serie B title, followed by domestic cup victories in 1996.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →International Appointments
Ranieri moved to Spain in 1997, overseeing Valencia and Atlético Madrid. In Valencia, he secured a Copa del Rey and an UEFA Intertoto Cup. His English tenure began at Chelsea in 2000, where he focused on consistent squad improvement, culminating in a runners-up finish in the 2003-04 Premier League. Later, he experienced varying results across European clubs including Monaco, Parma, Juventus, Roma, and Inter Milan, before brief and unsuccessful management of the Greece national team.
Recognitions and Current Role
Following his success at Leicester City, Ranieri received the 2016 Best FIFA Men's Coach award and was named Premier League Manager of the Season. He was appointed a Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic in 2016 and inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame. As of his current involvement, he serves as the technical director of the Italy national team and president of Club Italia.
Fast facts
- Born: 1951, Rome, Italy
- Primary Occupations: Football player, football coach
- 2015-16 Premier League Title: Leicester City
- Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic: 2016
- Italian Football Hall of Fame: 2016
- Spouse: Dr. Rosanna
- Children: Daughter, Claudia
- Grandchildren: Orlando, Dorotea
Questions readers ask
What is Claudio Ranieri's current involvement in football?
He serves as the technical director of the Italy national team and the president of Club Italia.
Which major trophies did he win in Italy?
He won the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana in 1996 while managing Fiorentina.
Achievements
- Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic — 2016
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
