World Cup and Champions League winners, along with club founders and front-office leaders, gathered at FIFA headquarters in Zurich this week to participate in the FIFA Diploma in Club Management program. The course, now in its third edition, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the soccer industry to its participants.
Notable graduates from this week's session included Juan Mata and Angel City founder Julie Uhrman, while Cesc Fàbregas, Esteban Cambiasso, and Radamel Falcao were among the latest intake for the 18-month course. The program offers former players a pathway to careers off the field and helps educate soccer industry executives on the players' perspective.
Participants like Mata, who is a co-founder of the Common Goal charity, emphasized the importance of continuous learning and skill development. The course also received insights from former players like Cambiasso, who highlighted the misconception that developing a player's intellect could be seen as a threat by some industry executives.
Fàbregas, currently coaching in Italy at Como, is balancing his studies with his role as a minority investor in the club. The course, initiated by FIFA in 2021, complements the UEFA masters course and provides a platform for retired players to enhance their knowledge and skills in club management.
While the focus of the course is on club operations, the participants also benefit from guest lectures by industry experts like Arsene Wenger, FIFA's head of global development. The program aims to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among clubs of varying histories and backgrounds.
As the soccer industry evolves, the importance of education and continuous learning becomes increasingly evident. The commitment of former players and industry leaders to enhance their understanding of club management reflects a shared goal of achieving success and driving positive change within the sport.
