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Who is Jovan Damjanovic?

By
Enes Alan
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Jovan Damjanovic

Jovan Damjanovic is a Serbian football coach and former professional striker whose career spans over two decades, reflecting both international playing experience and a strong commitment to youth development. Known for his leadership qualities and tactical understanding, Damjanovic has held key roles within Serbian club football and the national team setup.

Early Life and Playing Career

Born on October 4, 1982 in Knin, former SFR Yugoslavia, Damjanovic began his football journey in the youth academy of Red Star Belgrade. Standing at 1.93 meters, he was a classic center forward with a strong aerial presence and physical style of play. His professional career took him across Europe and Asia, with stints at clubs such as Sutjeska Nikšić, Radnički Obrenovac, FK Rad, FK Železnik, and Borac Čačak. His goal-scoring form earned him moves abroad to clubs including SV Ried in Austria, SC Paderborn 07 and SV Wehen Wiesbaden in Germany, Dinamo Minsk and Dinamo Brest in Belarus, and Hunan Billows in China. He later returned to Serbia, playing for FK Novi Pazar and FK Voždovac before retiring in 2016. Over his career, he played 299 professional matches and scored 65 goals.

On the international stage, Damjanovic represented FR Yugoslavia at the U16 and U18 levels, featuring in the 2001 UEFA European Under-18 Championship where he scored three goals. He earned three senior caps for Serbia in 2011, making his debut against South Korea.

Coaching and Technical Leadership

After retiring, Damjanovic transitioned into coaching and technical leadership, starting at FK Voždovac where he served as academy manager, sporting director, and first-team head coach. He led the club’s efforts to professionalize its development pipeline and strengthen its competitive standing in the Serbian SuperLiga.

Between 2021 and 2024, he worked within the Serbian Football Association, coaching national youth teams at U17, U18, and U19 levels. His work focused on identifying and developing young talents, preparing them for international competition and professional careers. His teams were noted for their discipline, structure, and tactical identity.

In August 2024, he was appointed head coach of FK TSC Bačka Topola. Over the course of 28 matches, he recorded 10 wins, 3 draws, and 15 losses, with an average of 1.18 points per match. He favored a 4-1-4-1 tactical setup that emphasized balance between compact defending and dynamic transitions.

Philosophy and Personal Life

Damjanovic is known for his focus on structure, development, and long-term planning. He believes in building club cultures that prioritize education, tactical intelligence, and professionalism. His ability to connect with young players and his commitment to mentoring has made him a respected figure in Serbian football.

He is also a father and mentor at home. His son, Aleksa Damjanovic, is part of the Red Star Belgrade U17 team, continuing the family’s connection to Serbian football.

Jovan Damjanovic’s evolution from a prolific striker to a methodical and forward-thinking coach highlights his dedication to football and his influence on the next generation of players and leaders.

Our Exclusive Interview with Jovan Damjanovic

Who is Jovan Damjanovic outside of football, and how have your personal experiences influenced your coaching approach?

I would describe myself as a husband and a father to a 16-year-old boy, Aleksa, and a 6-year-old girl, Anja. My wife Sabina and I do our best to raise them in the right way and enjoy every moment of their upbringing as a family. Aleksa is a football player, a youth international, and a member of Red Star Belgrade, which further deepens the connection between my personal life and my professional coaching career. Football is a constant topic in our household. We either watch it or talk about it, and it serves as a continuous source of inspiration and motivation for my work. I am closely connected to young players professionally. At home, I have a teenager, which gives me insight into what the new generations are like: their habits, environments, and ambitions. This helps us understand how to shape and prepare them for the football of the future, not only as athletes but as individuals.

After a diverse playing career across Europe and Asia, what motivated your transition into coaching and management?

I have been fortunate to spend my entire life in football. My playing career brought me incredible life experiences, allowed me to discover different cultures, and left me with many beautiful memories, both on and off the pitch. But football also brings many difficult moments, especially for a young person still growing and developing. My initial motivation for becoming a coach was the desire to stay in the field I love and preserve the passion I feel for football. At the same time, I wanted to use my experience and education to help young people develop and achieve their dreams and full potential. It is not easy. There are many challenges, ups and downs, and doubts but I realized that the coach and the players’ environment are the most critical factors in their development. I ended my playing career nine years ago, even though I could have kept playing, because I saw the club I was at as the right environment to begin my coaching journey. That starting environment and the people around you is very important at the beginning.

How did your time at FK Voždovac shape your leadership style and understanding of club development?

My first club was a family-oriented organization with huge development potential and a clear goal to promote strong values throughout the entire structure. I started as the academy director and was very involved, often taking on multiple roles within the club. I was preparing for the role of head coach by learning from all angles and gaining the experience needed to build a proper system. I needed to understand how each layer of the club functions, from top to bottom, to create a productive working atmosphere and select the right people. After five years in several roles, I left proudly, knowing that the core values we established still define the club, which is now recognized as one of the best-organized in the region, especially when it comes to developing young players and coaches.

What were the key challenges and learnings during your tenure with Serbia’s youth national teams and how do you approach balancing tactical discipline with individual player development, especially in youth football?

Working with top talents is both a great privilege and a huge responsibility. The good thing is that they learn quickly and absorb information well, which is important because there is not much time to work with national team players. I believe football is evolving toward even shorter preparation periods, from six to seven days in the past to just two to three days between matches. Because of that, we had to elevate our preparation systems to the highest level, not just on the pitch but also off it, through individual, group, and team approaches. Analysis, tactics, and especially the psychological side play key roles. Working with the most talented players gave us access to international tournaments where we competed with the best football federations and the most promising young talents in the world. That experience helped us grow and refine our own ideas. We achieved strong results, but more importantly, we played modern and attractive football. I firmly believe that in order to develop players for the highest level, they must play demanding and structured football in all phases of the game. From our U17 national team, two players, Maksimović and Cvetković, have already made it to the senior team, which is the ultimate goal of youth development at the national level.

During your time at TSC Bačka Topola you achieved something historic in the club’s history, The qualification for the Conference League knockout stages. What do you think were the key factors behind that success despite being one of the smaller clubs in Serbia?

Our historic success came because the players believed in my vision and had the courage to play proactive and brave football, even in Europe. We stayed true to our style and principles, both in the domestic league and on the European stage, regardless of the opponent. Of course, each match is different, and European competition is demanding, so we prioritized it strategically over the domestic league and cup. That strategy paid off with a series of memorable European nights, including our historic first win in Europe, a 4–1 victory over Lugano, as well as becoming the first Serbian club, apart from Red Star and Partizan, to earn an away point in Europe (against St. Gallen), and a thrilling 4–3 home win over Noah. We secured seven points and qualified for the knockout phase, the only Serbian club this season to do so. Only Red Star and Partizan have managed that before us in Serbian football history. We played high-level football, which allowed our players to deliver the best seasons of their careers. Pantović became the second top scorer in the group stage with five goals, Ćirković was the top assist provider, and Stanić was the most successful dribbler. Several players significantly raised their market value. Ćirković and Đakovac were transferred for three million euros, and Pantović, Stanić, and Mboungou are expected to follow, which will bring both points and financial return from the Conference League. All of this was made possible by the belief of my staff and players in a bold, clear football identity.

What tactical principles and stylistic elements of your team’s play do you believe were most instrumental in achieving that success?

We aim to create a clearly structured system that remains flexible and predictable to us, but unpredictable to the opponent. When I say “protagonist style,” I mean high intensity and pressing all over the pitch. We always want to have the ball, so we must be aggressive in winning it back in every area. We want possession and control. The better we are without the ball, the more we will have it. With the ball, we are patient, without it, we are aggressive. We keep opponents away from our goal through intensity and possession. Our defensive line spends most of the time high up the pitch, so we know exactly where our weaknesses are and what we need to work on. That is why we emphasize extreme intensity and compactness, a key principle that must not be broken, whether we have the ball or not. This also requires the right player profiles, compatible pairs, and groups that bring team balance. We did not have much time, so from day one, our coaching staff set high demands and some players encountered this level of intensity for the first time. Thankfully, they embraced it and saw the benefits. We had to reach our playing style quickly, and, of course, win matches, which we managed to do. As I mentioned, we played every two to three days all season long, and this is where football is heading: short preparation windows, many details.

TSC Bačka Topola has built a reputation for developing young talents and providing them with a platform to move on to bigger European clubs. How did you prepare such a team, relatively inexperienced on the international stage, both mentally and tactically for the challenges of European competition?

From day one, I was clear about what I wanted and how we should play. I showed the players I believed in them. It was essential that they quickly saw the difference and began believing in the idea that this style of football would bring success. Luckily, I had previously coached some of the players in the national team and at Voždovac, and others were already familiar with me and my work. Our first European match in Kazakhstan brought us a lot, even though we lost 1-0. We had nearly 30 shots on Astana’s goal and hit the post four times, which made us realize that our plan controlled the game. We imposed our style on foreign soil and after that match, the players and staff saw the value of our approach, despite the defeat. It became only a matter of time before results would come with our style of play. Alongside player and staff education, we also had to educate club leadership, which is the most difficult part. They had never seen such an extreme approach, so it was foreign to them. That is why we needed to start winning as soon as possible.

In your view, what does Serbian football need to improve in order to better prepare young players for international careers?

We have a lot of talent in our people, coaches, and players, but there is very little systemic work. The environment around young players is unstable, and things often happen by chance rather than through planning. We also lack education to ensure that the great talent we do have, both in players and coaches, can remain relevant in the football of the future. Football is constantly evolving, and if we do not evolve with it, we all lose and take the harder path.

What core values define your identity as a head coach, and how do you implement them daily within your teams?

My values and football philosophy remain constant, everything else depends on the environment and context. The foundation is an extreme approach to everything we do, clear direction, and insistence on our playing identity and principles. I want to have a well-defined structure, but within it, I want players to fully express themselves, to improvise, create, and feel inspired. I also strongly advocate for an individual approach to players in every sense. Players are human beings first, and only then professionals. They are all different, and I want to give them not only knowledge and guidance but also attention, to make them feel valued within the team. At the same time, I demand a lot from them. I expect responsibility, but when a player underperforms, I take it upon myself. My staff and I need to be better to bring the player to his full potential

What are your future goals in coaching, and how do you see your role evolving in modern football?

I want to surround myself with quality people, those I can grow with, both professionally and personally. So far, I have always chosen my environments carefully, and I hope I will measure my next step just as well, so that it will be inspiring. We have sent strong messages and achieved results on an international level, and I want to continue testing myself and presenting my ideas at an even higher level. That kind of environment brings me joy. Competing with well-organized teams, exchanging ideas, because those experiences help me improve in every way.

UEFA Women’s Euro 2025: Dates, Host Cities, Teams, and What to Expect in Switzerland

By
Ersel Aybasti
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From 2 to 27 July 2025, Switzerland will host the UEFA Women’s Euro for the first time in the tournament’s history. Sixteen national teams, eight host cities, and 31 matches – with modern technology, record-breaking numbers, and a strong cultural programme, this tournament promises to be one of the highlights of the European sports summer.

HOST COUNTRY: SWITZERLAND

Switzerland offers the ideal stage for an international tournament of this scale – compact, organized, and passionately sporting. Known for its neutrality, efficiency, and hospitality, the country provides a perfect blend of infrastructure, accessibility, and scenic diversity.

  • Capital: Bern
  • Largest City: Zurich (economic and cultural hub with over 440,000 residents)
  • Population: approx. 8.8 million
  • Official Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh
  • Geography: From Alpine peaks to lakeside cities – diverse and easily reachable
  • Transport: High-performance public transit system; all match tickets include free nationwide travel
  • Sporting Credentials: Co-host of UEFA Euro 2008 (men) and home to UEFA headquarters in Nyon

With the Women’s Euro 2025, Switzerland is not only making history – it’s reinforcing its role as a leader in fair, inclusive, and forward-thinking football.

TOURNAMENT OVERVIEW
  • Dates: 2–27 July 2025
  • Participating Teams: 16
  • Matches: 31
  • Final: St. Jakob-Park, Basel
  • Reigning Champion: England
FORMAT & GROUPS
  • Four groups of four teams each
  • Top two teams per group advance to the quarter-finals
  • Followed by semi-finals and the final

Group A: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Finland
Group B: Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Italy
Group C: Germany, Poland, Denmark, Sweden
Group D: France, England, Wales, Netherlands

HOST CITIES & STADIUMS
City Stadium Capacity
Basel St. Jakob-Park 38,512
Bern Stadion Wankdorf 31,500
Geneva Stade de Genève 30,084
Zurich Letzigrund 24,061
St. Gallen Kybunpark 17,317
Lucerne swissporarena 16,000
Sion Stade de Tourbillon 14,283
Thun Arena Thun 10,398
TECHNOLOGY IN USE
  • VAR (Video Assistant Referee)
  • Goal-line Technology
  • Semi-automated Offside Technology
  • Connected Ball Technology
  • Main Technology Centre: VAR Hub in Nyon
TICKET SALES & RECORDS
  • Over 550,000 tickets sold as of May 2025
  • Target: 673,000 total spectators
  • 90,000 tickets sold in the first 24 hours after the draw
ECONOMY & PRIZE MONEY
  • Prize Pool: €41 million – a record for women’s tournaments
  • Estimated Impact: CHF 180 million (approx. €192 million) in economic activity
BROADCASTING & MEDIA

Live coverage in 190+ countries, including:

  • Germany: ARD & ZDF
  • France: France Télévisions
  • Italy: RAI
  • Spain: RTVE
  • UK: BBC & ITV
  • USA: CBS Sports / Paramount+
  • Australia: Optus Sport

UEFA’s digital platforms will also offer global livestreams, highlights, and fan content.

FAN EXPERIENCE & SUSTAINABILITY
  • Mascot: “Maddli”, the St. Bernard puppy
  • Opening Event: Show match at Jungfraujoch – Europe’s highest railway station
  • Fan Zones: In every host city with public viewing, music, and food
  • Tickets: Include public transport passes across Switzerland
VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME
  • Over 2,500 volunteers in all host cities
  • Roles range from accreditation to stadium services
  • Focus on integration, diversity, and local engagement
  • Inclusive roles for people with disabilities
ACCESSIBILITY & INCLUSION

UEFA prioritizes barrier-free access:

  • Reserved seating
  • Audio description for blind and visually impaired fans
  • Volunteers trained in sign language
LEGACY PROGRAMMES
  • “Time for Action”: UEFA’s programme for long-term growth of women’s football in Switzerland
  • School projects, local clubs, and development pathways
  • More girls in football, more qualified coaches, stronger club infrastructure
SUSTAINABILITY IN FOCUS
  • Eco-friendly materials used across venues
  • Plastic-free stadium policies
  • Regional partnerships and short delivery chains
  • CO₂ offsetting for all tournament-related activities
SAFETY & ORGANISATION
  • Close coordination with Swiss authorities
  • Central UEFA operations centre to manage all venues
  • Security planning based on UEFA Euro 2008 best practices
CONCLUSION

UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 is more than a football tournament – it’s a celebration of progress, equality, and unity. Switzerland offers not just the perfect stage, but a model for how international sport can inspire lasting impact.

The Parents Week – Edition #61

By
Ali Afzal-Khan
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Welcome to the 61st edition of The Parents Week, your trusted source for the most meaningful stories in football family dynamics and development.

This week, we dive into:

  • New data from the ECA reveals the structural gap between first and second divisions across the “Big Five” countries. We explore what this means for youth development and the limited transition pathways for academy players.
  • What does the research really say about the impact of parents in football? From supportive presence to pressure pitfalls, this mindset piece helps families reflect on how to show up with awareness and balance.
  • The UEFA U21 Euros are underway in Slovakia, and England’s squad features rising stars like Jarell Quansah and Jobe Bellingham. We spotlight the football and personal journeys that brought them here.

日本サッカーへの世界的投資家の進出：なぜレッドブルとシティ・フットボール・グループはJリーグに注目するのか？

By
Halil Bastuglu
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近年、日本サッカーは国際的な投資家にとってますます魅力的な市場となっている。その先頭に立つのが、レッドブルとシティ・フットボール・グループだ。世界各地で画期的なクラブ運営を展開する両社は、いまJリーグに注目し、日本サッカー界に持続的なインパクトを残そうとしている。

レッドブルは、J3リーグの王者・大宮アルディージャの買収で注目を集めた。欧米で実績あるモデルを活用し、ブランディング、ユース育成、グローバルネットワークを通じてクラブを新たな象徴へと導こうとしている。攻撃的かつ体系的なレッドブルのアプローチは、日本に新たな基準をもたらす可能性がある。

同様に、シティ・フットボール・グループは横浜F・マリノスとの長期的なパートナーシップを通じて、日本における存在感を高めてきた。この協業は資金的安定に加え、最新のトレーニングシステムや国際的なノウハウをもたらし、マリノスをJリーグ屈指のクラブへと押し上げた。これらの大規模投資は、日本が世界サッカー市場における戦略的な成長拠点であることを改めて示している。

なぜ投資家は日本に注目するのか？

日本には、投資先として理想的な条件が揃っている。情熱的なファンと高い観客動員数を誇る強固なサッカー文化があり、地域密着型のプロジェクトに適した土壌がある。日本のファンはクラブへの忠誠心が高く、地域社会とのつながりを大切にしており、長期的成長を見込むには最適な市場だ。

さらに、日本は経済的にも安定しており、インフラも整備されているため、リスクを嫌う投資家にも魅力的に映る。Jリーグのクラブはプロフェッショナルに運営され、持続可能なビジネスモデルを確立しており、長期的な安定性が期待できる。地理的にも韓国、中国、東南アジアといった成長著しいサッカー市場へのアクセスが容易だ。

Jリーグが掲げる「100年構想」は、グローバル投資家の長期的なビジョンと親和性が高い。ユース育成、財務の健全性、クラブ経営の持続可能性に重きを置くこの方針は、レッドブルやシティ・フットボール・グループのような組織にとって理想的なパートナーシップとなりうる。

日本サッカーのチャンスと課題

レッドブルやシティ・フットボール・グループの参入は、日本サッカーに大きなチャンスをもたらす。クラブは最新技術、革新的なトレーニング法、先進的なマーケティング戦略の恩恵を受けられる。たとえば、シティ・フットボール・グループのデータドリブンなアプローチは、横浜F・マリノスの戦術的進化と競技・経済両面での成功を後押ししている。

一方で、課題も存在する。日本サッカーは「敬意」「一体感」「地域とのつながり」といった文化的価値観に深く根ざしている。これらの伝統と、国際的投資家が持ち込む商業的な目標とのバランスを取ることが求められる。クラブとリーグの意思決定者は、伝統と革新の間で繊細な調和を図らなければならない。

さらに、過度な商業化というリスクもある。国際的投資が成長を後押しする一方で、地元ファンの声や価値観がないがしろにされないよう注意が必要だ。持続的成功の鍵は、グローバルな専門性と日本独自のサッカー文化を調和させることにある。

次なる投資家の可能性

レッドブルやシティ・フットボール・グループの動きは、さらなる投資家を呼び込む可能性がある。カタール・スポーツ・インベストメンツが所有するパリ・サンジェルマン（PSG）は、すでに日本でのトレーニングツアーやファン向けキャンペーンを通じて存在感を高めている。今後、日本のクラブとのパートナーシップや買収が進めば、地域における影響力が一層強まるだろう。

もう一つ注目すべきは、欧州でサッカーポートフォリオを拡大している米国の投資会社「777パートナーズ」だ。成長ポテンシャルの高い市場を狙う戦略を持つ彼らにとって、日本は次の大きな機会となるかもしれない。熱狂的なファンとブランド力を持つ浦和レッズのようなクラブは、国際的投資家にとって非常に魅力的な存在だ。

未来への展望

レッドブルとシティ・フットボール・グループの参入は、日本サッカーの転換点を示している。資金だけでなく、先進的な知見と革新的な手法がもたらされることで、Jリーグは大きく変化する可能性を秘めている。日本サッカーは今、世界的な存在感を高め、クラブのインフラを強化し、ファンとの絆を深める絶好の機会を迎えている。

最大の課題は、近代化と価値観の共存だ。Jリーグが文化的アイデンティティを守りながら、国際的投資の可能性を最大限に活かせるかどうかが、今後の成否を分ける鍵となるだろう。PSGや777パートナーズのような新たなプレーヤーが参入すれば、日本サッカーはさらなる成長と進化の時代を迎えることになる。地域の情熱とグローバルな野心が交差するJリーグは、やがて他リーグの模範となる存在へと飛躍する可能性を秘めている。

Yeni FIFA Menajerlik Sınavı 2025: Çevrimiçi Format, Kurallar ve Başarı Rehberi

By
Enes Alan
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Photo by Nguyen Dang Hoang Nhu on Unsplash
FIFA Menajerlik Sınavının Formatı ve Yapısı

FIFA, 4 Mart 2025’ten itibaren geçerli olmak üzere Menajerlik Sınavında önemli yapısal değişiklikler yapmıştır. Bu güncellemeler, önceki fiziksel sınav merkezlerinde yapılan yüz yüze değerlendirmelerden tamamen çevrimiçi bir formata geçişi ifade etmektedir. Yeni sistem, daha sıkı gözetim protokolleri ve revize edilmiş teknik gereksinimler içermektedir. Bu değişiklikler, sınavın adalet, şeffaflık ve standartlaştırma ilkelerine daha uygun olmasını sağlamak amacıyla yapılmıştır. Böylece tüm adayların, konumlarından bağımsız olarak, aynı denetim altında ve eşit şartlarda sınava girmesi sağlanacaktır.

Önceki sistemde adaylar, sınavı kendi ülkelerindeki Ulusal Futbol Federasyonları tarafından belirlenen test merkezlerinde yüz yüze tamamlamak zorundaydı. Bu sistem kontrollü sınav koşulları sunarken, sınav ortamlarında önemli farklılıklar bulunuyordu. Bazı federasyonlar teknik destek, internet erişimi ve sınav salonu olanakları açısından daha iyi şartlar sunarken, diğerleri sınırlı imkanlar sağlayabiliyordu. Ayrıca, adayların sınav sırasında kullanabileceği materyaller konusunda da tutarsızlıklar vardı; bazı federasyonlar basılı notlar (kişisel notlar içeren basılı kopyalar dahil) kullanılmasına izin verirken, diğerleri daha sıkı kısıtlamalar uyguluyordu.

FIFA, tüm fiziksel sınav merkezlerini kaldırarak sınavı tamamen çevrimiçi bir formata geçirdi. Adayların artık sınavı kendi belirledikleri özel bir ortamda tamamlamaları gerekmektedir. Bu değişiklik, sınav koşullarının oluşturulması konusunda adaylara daha büyük bir sorumluluk yüklemektedir. Adayların, gerekli teknolojiye, istikrarlı bir internet bağlantısına ve uygun bir çalışma alanına sahip olmaları zorunludur. Yeni sistem, güvenlik önlemlerini artırarak adayların bilgisayarlarında kamera ve mikrofon erişiminin zorunlu hale getirilmesini ve ek olarak bir akıllı telefon üzerinden ikinci bir gözetim mekanizmasının kullanılmasını içermektedir. Önceden, gözetmenler sınav merkezlerinde fiziksel olarak adayları denetlerken, artık FIFA yapay zeka destekli izleme araçlarını kullanarak aday davranışlarını gerçek zamanlı olarak takip edecek ve şüpheli faaliyetleri tespit edecektir.

Bir diğer önemli değişiklik, 60 dakikalık sınav süresi boyunca ara verilmesine tamamen yasak getirilmesidir. Önceden, adaylar denetimli koşullarda tuvalet molası alabiliyordu, ancak yeni sistemde herhangi bir kesintiye izin verilmemektedir. Sınav başladıktan sonra adayların kamera karşısında görünür olması ve oturdukları yerde kalmaları zorunludur. Adayın yerinden kalkması, uzun süre ekrandan uzaklaşması veya internet bağlantısının kopması durumunda sınav denemesi derhal geçersiz sayılacak ve aday bir sonraki sınav oturumuna yeniden başvurmak zorunda kalacaktır.

FIFA ayrıca sınav usulsüzlükleri konusunda daha katı kurallar getirmiştir. Önceki sistemde, izinsiz iletişim kurmak, dış materyallere erişmek veya elektronik cihaz kullanmak gibi ihlaller sadece o oturumdan diskalifiye edilmeye yol açabiliyor ve adaylar bir sonraki sınava sorunsuz bir şekilde başvurabiliyordu. Ancak yeni düzenlemelere göre, kopya çekme, ekran görüntüsü alma veya sınav içeriğini dışarıya sızdırma gibi ciddi ihlaller, adayın gelecekteki sınavlara katılmaktan men edilmesine neden olabilir. Ağır ihlallerde, adayın FIFA menajeri lisansı alma hakkı kalıcı olarak iptal edilebilir.

Bu güncellemelerle birlikte FIFA, sınav sürecini küresel ölçekte daha tutarlı ve sıkı bir şekilde düzenlemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Adayların teknik gerekliliklere tam olarak uyması ve sınav kurallarını eksiksiz anlaması gerekmektedir; aksi takdirde, sınav denemeleri geçersiz sayılabilir.

Sınav Formatı ve Başarı Koşulları

FIFA Menajerlik Sınavı artık tamamen çevrimiçi olarak yapılmaktadır ve fiziksel sınav merkezleri kaldırılmıştır. Bu değişiklik, adayların belirlenen test merkezlerine seyahat etme zorunluluğunu ortadan kaldırırken, sınav koşullarının sağlanması konusundaki sorumluluğu adaylara yüklemektedir. Sınav süresi 60 dakika olup, başarılı olmak için adayların en az %75 puan alması gerekmektedir.

Sınav, adayların FIFA düzenlemeleri hakkındaki bilgilerini değerlendiren çoktan seçmeli sorulardan oluşmaktadır. Sorular, oyuncu transferleri, sözleşmeler, menajer sorumlulukları ve genel futbol yönetimi gibi konuları kapsamaktadır. Sınav yalnızca teorik bilgi ölçmekle kalmayıp, adayların FIFA kurallarını gerçek dünya senaryolarında nasıl uygulayabileceğini de değerlendirmektedir.

Yeni sistemde molalar tamamen kaldırılmıştır. Önceden adaylar denetimli koşullarda tuvalet molası alabiliyordu, ancak artık sınav boyunca hiçbir kesintiye izin verilmemektedir. Sınav başladıktan sonra adaylar kamera karşısında görünür, oturur ve teste odaklanmış şekilde kalmalıdır. Teknik bir sorun, kişisel ihtiyaç veya kazara bağlantı kopması nedeniyle sınavdan ayrılan adaylar otomatik olarak diskalifiye edilecek ve bir sonraki sınav oturumuna kadar beklemek zorunda kalacaktır.

Bu sıkı koşullar göz önüne alındığında, FIFA adayların sınav öncesinde cihazlarını, internet bağlantılarını ve teknik ekipmanlarını önceden test etmelerini şiddetle tavsiye etmektedir.

Teknik Gereksinimler ve Kurulum

FIFA, sınavın tamamen çevrimiçi olarak gerçekleştirilmesi nedeniyle belirli teknik gereksinimler belirlemiştir. Adaylar, sınav sırasında teknik destek almayacakları için sınav koşullarını sağlamak ve sürdürmekten tamamen kendileri sorumludur.

Sınava girebilmek için adayların aşağıdaki gereksinimleri karşılaması gerekmektedir:

  • Kamera ve mikrofonu açık olan bir dizüstü veya masaüstü bilgisayar. FIFA’nın izleme sistemi, adayların davranışlarını takip etmek için bu cihazlara ihtiyaç duymaktadır.
  • İkincil gözetim amacıyla kullanılacak bir akıllı telefon. Bu telefon, adayın çalışma alanını farklı bir açıdan göstermek için konumlandırılmalıdır.
  • Kararlı ve güvenilir bir internet bağlantısı. FIFA, sınav sırasında bağlantının kesilmesi durumunda denemenin geçersiz sayılacağını ve adayın sınavı tekrar edemeyeceğini açıklamıştır.

FIFA, adayların sınavdan önce cihazlarını test etmelerini, internet hızlarını kontrol etmelerini ve kamera-mikrofon işlevlerini doğrulamalarını önermektedir.

İzin Verilen ve Yasaklanan Eşyalar

✔️ İzin Verilenler

  • Dijital formatta kayıtlı çalışma materyalleri (yalnızca sınavın yapıldığı bilgisayarda saklanmış olmalıdır).
  • Reçeteli gözlükler.
  • Not almak için bir kalem ve boş bir kağıt. Ancak, kağıt sınavdan önce ve sonra kameraya gösterilmelidir.
  • FIFA’nın sınav platformunda entegre hesap makinesi.

❌ Yasaklananlar

  • Mobil telefonlar (yalnızca gözetim amacıyla kullanılan telefon hariç).
  • Akıllı saatler, kulaklıklar veya internete bağlanabilen diğer akıllı cihazlar.
  • FIFA sınav platformu dışında herhangi bir web sitesine erişim.
  • Basılı belgeler, el yazısı notlar veya fiziksel çalışma materyalleri.
  • Fiziksel hesap makineleri.

FIFA, sınav sırasında yetkisiz materyallere erişim sağlamaya çalışan veya kuralları ihlal eden adayların diskalifiye edileceğini ve gelecekteki sınavlara katılmalarının yasaklanabileceğini açıklamıştır. Adayların, sınav öncesinde çalışma alanlarını titizlikle kontrol etmeleri ve tüm kurallara tam uyum sağlamaları önemlidir.

Who is Mark Coonen?

By
Enes Alan
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Mark Coonen

Mark Coonen is a people-oriented, business-driven leader with a distinctive dual perspective in football: both as a former player agent and as a technical leader within a professional club. This combination enables him to bridge the often-separated worlds of player representation and club management, bringing a strategic, relational, and deeply informed approach to football leadership.

Over the years, Mark has gained a deep understanding of the football ecosystem from multiple angles. As a licensed football agent, he was involved in high-level negotiations, talent development, and international networking, gaining firsthand insight into the personal and professional journeys of players. On the club side, his roles as Head of Scouting and Interim Technical Director at PEC Zwolle allowed him to apply that knowledge toward building sustainable team structures, data-informed recruitment strategies, and a long-term vision for performance and development.

What sets Mark apart is his ability to see beyond short-term transactions. He understands the emotional, financial, and sporting stakes involved in every decision, making him a balanced and trusted figure for both players and stakeholders. His agency experience gives him an edge in negotiations, relationship management, and talent assessment, while his club background equips him with the strategic thinking and organizational skills needed to build lasting success.

In today’s football landscape, where alignment between agents, players, and clubs is more critical than ever, Mark represents a new generation of technical leaders: relationship-savvy, strategically grounded, and capable of operating across the full spectrum of the game.

Our Exclusive Interview with Mark Coonen

Who is Mark Coonen beyond football, and how have your personal experiences shaped the way you approach leadership in the game?

Beyond football, I am someone who values connection, clarity, and purpose in all areas of life. My background in business, particularly in media, communication, and partnership-focused roles, taught me that success is rarely about individual brilliance. It comes from building strong teams, setting a clear direction, and inspiring others to work toward it. I bring those same values into football leadership through open communication, long-term thinking, and a deep respect for individual motivation. Whether managing client relationships or leading a team, it always comes down to trust, consistency, and alignment.

What first inspired your move into the world of player representation, and how did that path evolve into technical leadership within a club?

My move into player representation was driven by a combination of passion and opportunity. I had worked in corporate roles centered around partnerships and negotiation and realized those skills could be applied to football, a field I have always been passionate about. As an agent, I built strong networks and gained a deep understanding of what players need to succeed. Over time, I became more interested in shaping the bigger picture at club level. That led me to a technical leadership role at PEC Zwolle, where I could help build long-term strategies and contribute to the club’s overall vision.

What has been the most unexpected or fulfilling aspect of working on both the agency and club sides of football?

The most fulfilling part has been understanding both perspectives and using that insight to create solutions that work for everyone. It is rare to have been both an agent advocating for a player and a technical leader building a squad and managing budgets.

What surprised me most is how often clubs and agents misinterpret each other’s goals. My experience on both sides allows me to bring clarity and alignment, which would not have been possible without living both realities.

How do you personally define effective leadership in football, especially when navigating the complex dynamics between players, agents, and clubs?

Effective leadership means having a clear vision, communicating with transparency, and making balanced decisions that consider performance, people, and business. Football is filled with emotional highs and lows, so leaders need to be a calm and steady presence who can earn trust across every level, from players to executives.

My background in both commercial business and player representation taught me to handle diverse interests with empathy and clarity. Strong leadership means knowing when to listen, when to act, and when to stand firm.

You have worked in roles that require both negotiation skills and long-term strategy. Which achievements are you most proud of in bridging those two areas?

One example I am proud of is my time at PEC Zwolle, where we implemented a data-driven scouting system while staying within strict financial limits. My experience as an agent helped ensure that we recruited players who matched our sporting needs and financial goals.

In my business career, I worked on complex projects that required strategic planning and commercial execution. I brought the same thinking into football by balancing short-term performance with long-term development.

What qualities do you think are essential for young professionals entering football management or talent representation today?

Three qualities stand out: emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and adaptability. Modern football involves much more than on-field talent. It includes data, psychology, branding, and negotiation.

Having worked across different sectors, I learned the importance of shifting perspectives and anticipating change. Young professionals must understand the full context of their role. Whether working in scouting, management, or representation, their success depends on understanding football’s broader financial, social, and competitive landscape.

How has your dual experience shaped your views on the current transfer market and the evolving role of agents in modern football?

My experience taught me that the transfer market is becoming more strategic and data-oriented. Relationships still matter, but clubs now demand forward planning and financial discipline. Agents are no longer just deal-makers. They are career advisors. Technical directors are not only experts in football. They must also be strong communicators and decision-makers.

Having worked on both sides, I believe in closer collaboration between clubs and agents. Agents who understand how clubs operate internally can add significant value. Clubs that see agents as partners tend to achieve more sustainable success.

Looking ahead, what is next for you in football, and how do you envision your role evolving in the future of the game?

I want to continue growing as a strategic leader in football, ideally in a role where I can build long-term value across performance, development, and club culture. My goal is to help create environments where players, staff, and executives work toward a shared and unified vision.

As football becomes more global, data-driven, and commercially complex, I believe my cross-industry background will continue to be an asset. Whether as a technical director or in a broader leadership position, I aim to operate at the intersection of performance, people, and purpose.

Struktur Ujian FIFA untuk Agen Sepak Bola 2025: Format Daring, Aturan Baru, dan Tips Lulus

By
Fabian Suprayogi
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Photo by Burst on Unsplash

FIFA telah memperkenalkan perubahan besar dalam struktur Ujian Agen Sepak Bola, yang mulai berlaku pada 4 Maret 2025. Pembaruan ini menandai pergeseran dari sistem ujian tatap muka di lokasi khusus ke format yang sepenuhnya daring, dengan protokol pengawasan yang lebih ketat serta persyaratan teknis yang diperbarui. Perubahan ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan keadilan, transparansi, dan standarisasi, memastikan bahwa semua kandidat, tanpa memandang lokasi, mengikuti ujian dalam kondisi yang seragam dan terkendali dengan ketat.

Pada sistem sebelumnya, kandidat diwajibkan mengikuti ujian secara langsung di tempat yang telah ditentukan oleh Asosiasi Sepak Bola Nasional mereka. Meskipun metode ini memberikan pengawasan yang ketat, terdapat variasi signifikan dalam kondisi ujian, termasuk perbedaan dalam dukungan teknis, akses internet, dan fasilitas yang tersedia di setiap asosiasi. Selain itu, aturan mengenai materi yang diperbolehkan selama ujian juga tidak seragam; beberapa asosiasi mengizinkan kandidat membawa catatan studi cetak (termasuk salinan yang telah diberi anotasi), sementara yang lain menerapkan batasan yang lebih ketat.

Kini, FIFA telah menghapus sistem ujian berbasis lokasi dan menggantinya dengan format daring sepenuhnya, yang berarti kandidat harus mengikuti ujian di lingkungan pribadi yang mereka kelola sendiri. Perubahan ini menempatkan tanggung jawab yang lebih besar pada kandidat untuk memastikan mereka memiliki teknologi yang memadai, koneksi internet yang stabil, dan ruang kerja yang sesuai. Sistem baru ini juga memperkenalkan langkah-langkah keamanan yang lebih ketat, termasuk persyaratan akses kamera dan mikrofon wajib pada komputer kandidat, serta pengawasan sekunder melalui perangkat ponsel pintar. Berbeda dengan sistem sebelumnya, di mana pengawas mengawasi secara langsung, FIFA kini akan menggunakan alat pemantauan berbasis kecerdasan buatan (AI) untuk melacak perilaku kandidat dan mendeteksi aktivitas mencurigakan secara real-time.

Perubahan penting lainnya adalah penghapusan semua jeda selama periode ujian yang berlangsung selama 60 menit. Sebelumnya, kandidat diperbolehkan mengambil jeda toilet dalam kondisi yang diawasi, tetapi kebijakan ini kini tidak lagi berlaku. Setelah ujian dimulai, kandidat harus tetap terlihat di kamera dan tetap duduk hingga waktu habis. Jika seorang kandidat meninggalkan posisinya, terlalu lama mengalihkan pandangan dari layar, atau mengalami gangguan koneksi internet, upaya mereka akan langsung dianggap tidak sah, dan mereka harus mendaftar ulang untuk sesi berikutnya.

Selain itu, FIFA telah menerapkan aturan yang lebih ketat terhadap pelanggaran dalam ujian. Pada sistem sebelumnya, pelanggaran seperti komunikasi yang tidak sah, akses ke materi eksternal, atau penggunaan perangkat elektronik dapat mengakibatkan diskualifikasi dari sesi tersebut, tetapi kandidat masih dapat mendaftar untuk ujian berikutnya tanpa konsekuensi lebih lanjut. Di bawah regulasi baru, pelanggaran serius, seperti kecurangan, mengambil tangkapan layar, atau menyebarkan konten ujian ke pihak luar, dapat berujung pada skorsing dari ujian berikutnya, atau dalam kasus ekstrem, larangan permanen untuk mendapatkan lisensi agen FIFA.

Dengan pembaruan ini, FIFA bertujuan menciptakan proses ujian yang seragam dan sangat teratur, menghilangkan ketidakkonsistenan dalam kondisi ujian serta mencegah keuntungan yang tidak adil. Kandidat kini harus benar-benar siap, baik dalam hal persiapan teknis maupun pemahaman terhadap aturan, karena kegagalan memenuhi persyaratan dapat menyebabkan kehilangan kesempatan mengikuti ujian.

Format Ujian dan Persyaratan Kelulusan

Ujian Agen Sepak Bola FIFA kini dilakukan sepenuhnya secara daring, menggantikan format sebelumnya yang berbasis lokasi fisik. Perubahan ini menghilangkan kebutuhan bagi kandidat untuk bepergian ke lokasi ujian yang telah ditentukan dan memberikan tanggung jawab lebih besar kepada mereka untuk memastikan lingkungan yang kondusif dan bebas gangguan. Durasi ujian tetap 60 menit, dan kandidat harus mencapai skor minimal 75% untuk lulus.

Tes ini terdiri dari pertanyaan pilihan ganda yang menguji pemahaman kandidat terhadap regulasi FIFA, termasuk transfer pemain, perjanjian kontrak, tanggung jawab perantara, dan tata kelola sepak bola secara umum. Pertanyaan-pertanyaan ini dirancang untuk menguji tidak hanya pengetahuan faktual, tetapi juga kemampuan kandidat dalam menerapkan peraturan FIFA ke dalam skenario dunia nyata yang mungkin dihadapi oleh agen dalam mewakili pemain dan klub.

Salah satu perubahan aturan yang paling signifikan adalah larangan ketat terhadap jeda selama ujian. Sebelumnya, kandidat dapat meminta izin untuk jeda toilet dengan pengawasan, tetapi dalam sistem baru, tidak ada interupsi yang diperbolehkan. Ini berarti bahwa setelah ujian dimulai, kandidat harus tetap duduk, terlihat di kamera, dan fokus pada tes hingga waktu 60 menit habis. Jika terjadi gangguan teknis, kebutuhan pribadi, atau koneksi terputus, upaya ujian akan langsung dianggap tidak sah, dan kandidat harus menunggu sesi berikutnya untuk mengulang ujian.

Mengingat kondisi yang lebih ketat ini, FIFA sangat menyarankan kandidat untuk melakukan persiapan menyeluruh sebelum memulai ujian, memastikan mereka memiliki koneksi internet yang stabil, perangkat yang diperlukan, serta lingkungan yang tenang dan bebas gangguan.

Persyaratan Teknis dan Persiapan

Karena ujian kini dilakukan sepenuhnya secara daring, FIFA telah menetapkan persyaratan teknis yang ketat guna memastikan lingkungan ujian yang aman, standar, dan diawasi dengan ketat. Kandidat bertanggung jawab penuh atas pengaturan dan pemeliharaan kondisi ujian mereka sendiri, karena FIFA tidak akan memberikan dukungan teknis selama ujian berlangsung.

Untuk mengikuti ujian, kandidat harus memiliki:

  • Laptop atau komputer desktop dengan kamera dan mikrofon yang berfungsi penuh, yang harus tetap aktif selama ujian. FIFA menggunakan perangkat ini untuk melacak perilaku kandidat dan mendeteksi ketidakwajaran.
  • Ponsel, yang digunakan untuk pengawasan sekunder. Kandidat harus meletakkan ponsel mereka sesuai instruksi untuk memberikan sudut pandang tambahan terhadap ruang kerja mereka. Ponsel ini tidak boleh digunakan untuk tujuan lain selama ujian berlangsung.
  • Koneksi internet yang stabil dan andal. FIFA menegaskan bahwa gangguan internet akan membatalkan upaya ujian, tanpa peluang untuk melanjutkan kembali. Jika kandidat kehilangan koneksi, sesi ujian mereka akan segera dihentikan, dan mereka harus mendaftar untuk sesi berikutnya.

Karena pentingnya persyaratan teknis ini, FIFA sangat menyarankan kandidat untuk menguji perangkat mereka, kecepatan internet, dan fungsi kamera jauh sebelum tanggal ujian. Jika terjadi masalah teknis selama ujian, baik yang terkait dengan koneksi internet, kegagalan perangkat keras, atau malfungsi perangkat lunak, kandidat tidak akan diberikan tambahan waktu atau kesempatan untuk mengulang di sesi yang sama. Mereka harus menunggu hingga jadwal ujian berikutnya.

Pelanggaran Ujian dan Konsekuensinya

FIFA menerapkan kebijakan nol toleransi terhadap pelanggaran ujian. Kandidat yang terbukti melanggar aturan dapat menghadapi konsekuensi serius, termasuk larangan permanen untuk mengikuti ujian FIFA di masa mendatang. Pelanggaran yang dilarang meliputi:

  1. Kecurangan – Menggunakan materi tidak sah, alat bantu, atau menerima bantuan dari pihak lain.
  2. Merekam atau Membagikan Konten Ujian – Mengambil tangkapan layar, merekam, atau menyebarkan isi ujian ke pihak luar.
  3. Komunikasi Tidak Sah – Berbicara dengan orang lain atau menggunakan perangkat elektronik untuk berkomunikasi.
  4. Meninggalkan Ujian Tanpa Izin – Meninggalkan sesi ujian sebelum selesai tanpa persetujuan.
  5. Impersonasi – Mengizinkan orang lain mengikuti ujian atas nama kandidat.

FIFA telah mengintegrasikan sistem pemantauan berbasis AI untuk mendeteksi pola kecurangan, sehingga semakin sulit bagi kandidat untuk menghindari deteksi. Kandidat yang terbukti melakukan pelanggaran dapat langsung didiskualifikasi, dilarang mengikuti sesi berikutnya, atau bahkan mendapatkan larangan seumur hidup.

Kandidat sangat disarankan untuk memahami dan mematuhi semua peraturan untuk menghindari komplikasi yang dapat membahayakan kelulusan mereka serta peluang masa depan sebagai agen FIFA.

The Women’s League – Edition #52

By
Ali Afzal-Khan
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Cover image of The Women’s League magazine featuring bold turquoise text on a purple stadium background. Tagline reads: "For women’s football decision makers."

Welcome to the 52nd edition of The Women’s League, your digital source for the latest and most impactful stories in Women’s football.

This week we dive into:

  • Pablo Piñones-Arce has been named the new head coach of ACF Fiorentina Women, as coaching shifts continue across Europe from Juventus and Sparta Prague to Monaco and Oxford City.
  • Who is Nergiz Bulut?
  • FC Bayern’s “EmpowerHer” program redefines player support, pairing athletes with corporate mentors from Allianz, SAP, and more to prepare them for life beyond football.

Who is Jonas Boldt?

By
Enes Alan
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Jonas Boldt

Jonas Boldt (born 1982) is a German football executive known for his leadership roles at Bayer 04 Leverkusen and Hamburger SV. He began his career at Leverkusen in 2007 under sporting director Rudi Völler, working as a scout before advancing to head of scouting, then sporting manager, and eventually becoming the club’s sporting director. During his tenure, Leverkusen consistently qualified for European competitions and developed a reputation for strong recruitment and youth integration. Club chairman Werner Wenning credited Boldt for his drive and commitment, while Rudi Völler highlighted his influence on personnel strategy and the club’s European consistency.

At Leverkusen, Boldt helped build a data-informed scouting and development structure. He earned recognition across Europe and South America for identifying talent early, including players like Arturo Vidal, Dani Carvajal, and Toni Kroos. He championed a leadership style based on placing the right people in development roles, mentoring youth, and creating a sustainable pipeline of talent. His time at Leverkusen saw the rise of players like Kai Havertz, Benjamin Henrichs, and Dominik Kohr from the academy to the first team.

In May 2019, Boldt was appointed Director of Sport at Hamburger SV, replacing Ralf Becker. His appointment was seen as a strategic move by HSV’s board to rebuild the club’s sporting identity. In 2020, his contract was extended through 2023, reflecting trust in his vision and methods. At HSV, Boldt was responsible for the club’s overall sporting direction, including transfer strategy, academy structure, and managerial appointments, as well as communication, brand, and marketing. He also led the People & Culture initiatives and oversaw a growth in club membership from 90,000 to 120,000.

His time at HSV involved multiple managerial changes, including the appointments of Dieter Hecking, Daniel Thioune, Tim Walter, and eventually Steffen Baumgart. Despite moments of promise, HSV failed to achieve promotion to the Bundesliga. In the 2023–24 season, the team finished fourth in the 2. Bundesliga, five points short of the playoff spot, while rivals St. Pauli secured direct promotion. Boldt’s decision to replace Walter with Baumgart late in the season did not reverse the team’s trajectory.

In May 2024, HSV’s board announced Boldt’s immediate departure from his role. The club acknowledged his contributions and expressed gratitude for his commitment during a demanding period. Boldt described his five-year tenure as both challenging and rewarding, reflecting on the foundations laid for long-term growth despite the missed targets.

Boldt’s management philosophy focuses on long-term planning, alignment between club identity and staff, and a proactive approach to recruitment and player development, as well as a strong leadership role and running a club in a business-minded way. He has emphasized a playing style centered on possession-based, attacking football, and has consistently sought coaches who reflect this approach. His work has been characterized by a methodical, people-first mindset aimed at sustainable success.

As of mid-2025, Jonas Boldt is not affiliated with a club. He is among the founders of POWWOW Sports, a digital community platform designed for athletes and sports professionals. In this new venture, he applies his Bundesliga experience and network to support emerging players and sports organizations through strategic guidance from both the sporting and economic sides.

Jonas Boldt remains one of Germany’s most respected football executives, known for his ability to bridge youth development with professional-level performance and his forward-thinking approach to club leadership.

Our Exclusive Interview with Jonas Boldt

Who is Jonas Boldt outside of football, and how have your personal experiences shaped the way you lead within the sport?

I would describe myself as a calm, thoughtful, and decisive individual. I have high ambitions not only for myself but also for those around me, while never losing sight of the human element. Much of what I have learned has come from observing the behavior and leadership styles of top athletes and business leaders. Beyond that, I have been fortunate to gain valuable insights through personal collaboration and exchange with figures such as Jupp Heynckes, Rudi Völler, Roger Schmidt, Reiner Calmund, and Michael Reschke on the sporting side. On the corporate side, I learned from Wolfgang Holzhäuser, Michael Schade, and Werner Wenning.

Looking back, what first sparked your interest in football management, and did you ever imagine dedicating so much of your career to it?

From an early age, my father sparked my passion for both sports and management. He regularly took me to the stadium, where I had the unique opportunity to encounter influential figures like Reiner Calmund and Uli Hoeneß. These early experiences fueled my fascination and cemented a dream to one day work in this world. I always knew that entering this field without a professional playing career would be a significant challenge. Still, I never let go of that ambition. I believed in it deeply and was willing to subordinate many things in life to pursue it with focus and dedication.

What moments from your time at Bayer Leverkusen stand out as especially formative for your leadership style and philosophy?

There are many defining moments, but one recurring theme that has always impressed me is when leaders step up for their teams in difficult situations while remaining calm and composed under pressure. I often think of Rudi Völler in such situations, particularly his composed reaction after the so-called “phantom goal” in Hoffenheim. That was a case without precedent in any textbook. Jupp Heynckes also left a lasting impression on me. His leadership created a sense of ease and trust within the team without compromising his authority. Everyone knew he could be uncompromising when someone threatened the team’s goals or chemistry. If there is one principle that has stayed with me, it is leading by example.

During your years at Hamburg, what did you learn about resilience, both personally and professionally, through the club’s ups and downs?

The status of the club and the wide-ranging public interest it attracts make it truly unique. Combined with the emotional intensity surrounding it, I quickly realized that without a strong inner compass, it is easy to lose yourself. What helped me is that I am naturally a calm and pragmatic person, someone others can rely on. That mindset aligns well with the Hanseatic culture. Still, I had to learn how to create distance at times, because the size and sheer force of a club like this can consume you. Even though I met many great people within the club, having close friends and family as a private anchor has been essential. They see you not as a functionary, but simply as a person.

How do you define effective leadership in modern football, especially in an era where clubs face growing expectations from fans, media, and players?

Leadership as a whole has evolved. People want to be included more, which can sometimes blur lines of accountability. I believe it is essential to set clear expectations and create an environment where people are both challenged and supported. The younger generation is especially looking for role models. They do not shy away from responsibility as long as they feel guided rather than left alone. Honest, direct conversations behind closed doors can make a big difference.

You have always placed value on scouting and development. Was there a moment or player that reminded you why investing in youth systems matters?

Every day spent interacting with people in the academies leaves a mark. The bond with the club and its people becomes part of your identity. Even today, I see how shared time creates lasting connections. No matter how far a player has gone or what kind of person he has become, certain character traits are instantly recognizable when you run into former youth players. This awareness should drive us to invest especially in good educators and mentors. Jonathan Tah is one player who always comes to mind. He was developed in Hamburg before my time and later brought to Leverkusen while I was there. We have both been part of these two clubs for many years, sometimes together and sometimes not. Without having to say much, there is a mutual understanding rooted in the identity and history of those places. It is in the small things, and it speaks volumes.

What advice would you give to young professionals who aspire to work in football management or club leadership today?

With hard work, discipline, perseverance, and courage, a great deal is possible. The path to the top is rare due to limited opportunities and intense competition, but it can be achieved.

Looking ahead, what part of the football ecosystem excites you most, and where do you see yourself making the biggest impact in the years to come?

The world is in flux and full of uncertainties. Football will always reflect society. As a result, the demands on leaders are becoming more complex. I am convinced that my future role will lie more in leadership and strategic direction rather than in day-to-day operational management.

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