Course in Football for Managers — Online

The sporting director connects the club’s football identity with people, resources and long-term planning. The role requires balancing immediate performance with squad development, recruitment, technical structures and the pathway from academy to first team.

This course provides managers with an inside view of football operations. You will examine sporting strategy, the organization of technical departments, relations with coaches and players, squad planning, scouting and recruitment, talent development, academies and performance support. The objective is to understand the decisions, information and coordination required to lead the sporting side of a football organization.

Understand the sporting decisions that connect club identity, squad planning, talent and long-term performance.

Lukas Dorda Johan Cruyff Institute, Associate Academic Director - Johan Cruyff Institute

“The sports industry is constantly evolving, and professionals need to continue developing their knowledge to stay prepared for new challenges. Our online courses offer the opportunity to deepen your knowledge in different areas, update your skills, and gain a broader perspective on the trends and opportunities shaping the future of sports.”

Lukas Dorda Associate Academic Director Johan Cruyff Institute

Basic information

Qualification
Certificate for the Course in Football for Managers from Johan Cruyff Institute, issued by using blockchain technology to guarantee the authenticity and integrity of the certificate.
Modality
Online
Duration
5 weeks
Credits
3 ECTS
Program language
English
Start date
13/10/2026
Enrollment
Registration open until the start of the program
Price
€ 685.-
Payment methods
Payment by installments available
Special conditions
Discount for alumni and members of partner entities
The program may be subject to change.
The institution reserves the right to cancel the edition of the program if it does not meet the minimum number of students.

Objectives

The main objective of the course is to provide future football directors (sports directors) with knowledge of the manager’s role related to different structures and dynamics of clubs.
Students will develop tools to navigate challenges frequently encountered by managers, and develop solutions to address these issues.

COMPETENCIES
  • Become familiar with understanding the “game”.
  • Acquire a vision of the strategic role of a football executive.
  • Understand the main roles of a manager.
  • Understand the process of creating a successful ecosystem (manager, staff, coaches, scouts, recruiters).
  • Know the operational aspects (technology, tools, software, training methodology) that should be applied.
START DATE

13/10/2026

The program

6 topics 3 ECTS

  • Understanding the game
  • Asking the right questions – What coaches, players, and other Staff and resources need?
  • Understanding the club’s overall vision
  • Developing a style of play
  • Coaches,trainers, other Staff
  • Scouting, recruiting, trading, and care
  • Academy
  • Tools/Software/Technology
  • Training Methodology

Course in Football for Managers

Starts 13/10/2026

Enroll now

FAQs

What online courses does Johan Cruyff Institute offer?

Johan Cruyff Institute offers specialized online courses across a variety of areas within the sports industry. These flexible, practical, short-term programs are designed to help you develop or update specific knowledge and skills while allowing you to learn at your own pace from anywhere in the world.

Why should I study an online course at Johan Cruyff Institute?

Our online courses combine flexibility, practical learning, and up-to-date content to help you develop targeted skills with a study schedule that fits your availability. They are an excellent option for professionals, athletes, and anyone looking to continue their education without interrupting their work or personal commitments.

Who are the online courses designed for?

Our online courses are intended for sports industry professionals, athletes, students, and anyone interested in gaining or updating knowledge in specific areas of the sports industry. Depending on the course, they may be suitable for both experienced professionals and individuals looking to begin a career in sports.

How do I know which online course is right for me?

The best choice depends on your interests, experience, and career goals. If you're looking to develop a specific skill, update your knowledge, or explore a new area of the sports industry, an online course may be the ideal option. Our Admissions team can help you identify the program that best fits your profile.

Do I need previous experience in sports?

It depends on the course. Some programs are open to anyone interested in the sports industry, while others require previous knowledge or professional experience. Please refer to the course webpage for specific admission requirements.

Have a question about this program?

If there is anything you could not find on this page, send us your question and our admissions team will get back to you.

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