In this analysis, we intend to observe the dynamics of Coaching Education throughout the globe, from the roles of the different kind, or levels, of Coaching and the pains that every Coach feels during their process of learning. Moreover, the uncertainty of having the role of your dreams. But, from a personal perspective but I believe an objective as well, the passion needed to pursue that dream regardless.

We all should agree that the role of Youth Coaches, similarly to School Teachers, extends far beyond the pitch. They are mentors, role models, and architects of dreams, shaping the next generation of footballing talent. Yet, despite their pivotal role, Youth Coaches often face significant challenges in accessing quality development and educational programs, particularly in regions like the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
Let’s pause for a second and understand the following: 

1. Why do we even need Education, or a Course? 
2. What kind of Education is available?
3. What differentiate the Level Scheme and what allows each Coach to pursue?

Let’s start by stating that the majority would assume that because one played or follows/watches Football for long time, it’s enough to be a Coach. Coming from Portugal, you cannot imagine the amount of people that would tell you “I know what I’m talking about, I follow Football for years”! As funny as it sounds, it really requires different skills and tools to effectively become a Coach and lead a team of different players, heads, mentality, resilience, environment and background, etc.
Therefore, the kind of Education available (in formal ways) is mainly possible by one of these ways: Universities, Federations or Football Associations, and specialized courses, forums, or seminars, or workshops, etc. These kind of Educational paths are formal and recognizable by different entities as you have access to a Diploma of some kind when completed. Naturally, the holistic and empirical approach, just as past experiences are very relevant, yet harder to be recognizable by an external entity (ie. Club) if there’s no previous connection to it. While experience as a player of the sport is undoubtedly valuable, formal Education and Coaching Courses offer unique benefits that complement and enhance practical knowledge. Main reasons would be:

• Merging Theory and Methodology to practical experience;
• Skill Development
• Understanding Best Practices
• Network and Collaboration
• Credibility and Recognition
• Adaptability and Innovation
• Discussion and Development

Should, then, FIFA take an action? For sure! Why do we have FIFA Licensed Agents and we don’t have an intervention on the Coaching Education?

Therefore, Coach Development and Educational Programs are essential for equipping Coaches with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to nurture talent effectively, from their younger stages to an adult phase. However, in many parts of the world, including the MENA region, access to such programs is limited by various factors, including financial constraints, lack of infrastructure, and cultural barriers. In Europe, for instance, the struggles that Youth Coaches face are different, but not to think the path is smooth. Not at all. I will give you my example. Just 10 to 15 years ago, there was a big revolution in the Educational System, where Universities curriculum was more intense and specialized than any of the Courses provided by the FA’s. Consequently, the Universities understood that their students should be recognized with the equivalent level of Coaching badge (ie. UEFA C, B or A License), which was not very well accepted by the Portuguese FA and Regional Associations (the only recognizable entities providing Coaching qualifications by then). These discussions took so long, stopping any Coaching Course for a few years, forcing some of Coaches going abroad to take their Licenses, just like myself. Not to mention that neither all Courses from different European FA’s, even holding the “UEFA” stamp, have the same duration, content, price, etc. Therefore, the standardization of the Teaching Methods is yet to make a long way if looking to have a better approach in the Education of the current and future Coaches. Here, I would argue that in a globalized world and market, it’s really hard to understand why Courses from Portugal, or any other country, may not be recognized in any other European country, or vice-versa. And from then, Confederations should also take this seriously and move ahead with a “Core-body” of the Coaching Courses that would allow a Coach with a certain level to be the exact same Coach anywhere else in the world. Should, then, FIFA take an action? For sure! Why do we have FIFA Licensed Agents and we don’t have an intervention on the Coaching Education?

In the MENA region, for example, where Football holds immense cultural significance, the demand for quality Coaching Education is high. Yet, aspiring Coaches often struggle to find accessible and affordable training opportunities. Limited resources and funding further exacerbate the challenge, hindering the development of grassroots Football and talent identification initiatives.

Moreover, cultural norms and societal expectations may present additional barriers to Female Coaches in the MENA region, further limiting opportunities for inclusive coach development, as another example. Overcoming these challenges requires a concerted effort to promote gender equality, diversity, and inclusion within Coaching Education Programs.

Despite these obstacles, there is hope on the horizon. 

In Portugal, Universities and Football Association reached some common-ground in regard to the recognition of students efforts – although regardless a Bachelors or a Master Degree still needs to run to the Football Association to have Practical Training and Education there. Additionally, Organizations and initiatives are emerging to address the gaps in Coaching Education, offering scholarships, mentorship programs, and online resources to aspiring coaches in the MENA region and beyond. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and investment in Coach Development, we can empower coaches to unlock the full potential of young talent and propel football forward in the MENA region.

In conclusion, while the pains of Coaching Educational programs persist, they are not insurmountable. By recognizing the challenges, advocating for change, and investing in Coach Development initiatives, we can pave the way for a brighter future for Youth Football and aspiring Coaches worldwide. 

After all, the true measure of success lies not only in the trophies won but in the lives touched and dreams realized through the beautiful game.

What’s your thoughts on this?
What’s the reality in your Educational System?