Italian league

Simone Inzaghi Wins Golden Bench Award as Top Serie A Coach

Simone Inzaghi has been awarded the prestigious Golden Bench (Panchina d’Oro) for the 2023–24 Serie A season, recognizing his outstanding managerial achievements with Inter Milan. The ceremony, held at the Coverciano Technical Center, saw Inzaghi top the votes with 26, ahead of Gian Piero Gasperini (Atalanta) with 14 and Vincenzo Italiano (Fiorentina) with 4.

“It is a great pride to receive this award at Coverciano where I have taken many courses, an honor to be voted by colleagues from whom we always try to learn,” Inzaghi said during the event.

The Silver Bench for Serie B went to Fabio Pecchia, who earned 24 votes for guiding Parma to promotion. Paolo Vanoli (Venezia) came second with 12, while Vincenzo Vivarini (Catanzaro) received 4 votes.

In Serie C, the Golden Bench was awarded to Guido Pagliuca of Juve Stabia, who led his side to a dominant campaign. His tactical acumen and leadership earned praise from across the Italian football community.

Carlo Ancelotti received a special Golden Bench in recognition of his extraordinary career and continued excellence with Real Madrid. Gian Piero Gasperini, in addition to his runner-up finish in Serie A, was honored with a special award for guiding Atalanta to a UEFA Europa League triumph — a historic moment for the club.

Francesco Palmieri of Sassuolo received the Mino Favini Award for his work in youth development, underscoring the importance of nurturing future talent.

In women’s football, Alessandro Spugna of Roma claimed the Golden Bench after another strong season, while Gianluca Grassadonia (Lazio) received the Silver Bench for his efforts in Serie B.

The awards celebrate coaching excellence across all levels of Italian football, reaffirming the strength and depth of the game in the country.