Marc Wilmots believes using a "humane" management style similar to Jurgen Klopp's approach has benefitted his Belgium side, but insists becoming the No. 1 team in the world is not the same as winning a title as he prepares the Red Devils for Euro 2016 next summer.
Wilmots, 46, was named as Coach of the Year at the Global Soccer Awards in Dubai on Sunday after Belgium rose to No. 1 in the FIFA World Rankings following a 3-1 win over Israel in October.
The 2014 World Cup quarterfinalists topped their Euro 2016 qualifying group ahead of Wales, and they will start as one of the favourites when the tournament gets underway in France next June.
The former Schalke midfielder says his coaching style is similar to that of Liverpool manager Klopp, and he feels that an attacking approach is bringing out the best in his players.
"I've never yet seen a manager score a goal," Wilmots told RTBF of his own influence on the side. "A manager should put in place good methods and make decisions.
"I'm a bit like Jurgen Klopp -- very humane, very honest and always direct. I often discuss things one-on-one with my players.
"Respect is a very important concept. We wanted to build an altruistic team. The individual doesn't count. Before we often heard [players say] 'me, I.' Now it's 'we.'
"Together we can do great things. We're stronger [together]. My ambition is to see my team create seven or eight chances per match.
"A manager who plays attacking football, that's good for morale -- the players feel more confident."
Wilmots believes Belgium are now among the top five or six teams in Europe and should reach at least the semifinals at Euro 2016, but they must first negotiate a group that includes Italy, Sweden and Republic of Ireland.
The coach is hoping that they can back up their new status at the world's No. 1 team when the pressure is on, saying: "We're all very happy to occupy first place in the FIFA rankings. But this first position isn't worth a title. It's the result of three great years.
"We've rarely lost during this time and we've done excellent work... Belgium is a small country but today we've developed a real playing philosophy based above all on attack."