As a recent graduate of UCFB’s BA (Hons) Football Coaching & Management programme, Daniel Alogba has secured not one, but two, in-demand coaching roles at the biggest clubs in the country – that just so happen to be arch rivals.
Here, the UCFB Etihad Campus alumni tells us what he gets up to at both Manchester United and Liverpool, and shares how his industry-oriented degree helped him get there...
Tell us about your role as Coach at the Manchester United Foundation and what it involves on a daily basis.
My role at Manchester United involves me working with young people around Greater Manchester in different projects; the main project I’m involved with is Street Reds, which is set up in line with the Premier League, where Manchester United offer free Premier League Kicks sessions to young people between the ages of 8-18.
You also work as a Coach at Liverpool FC’s International Academy. Can you tell us about this coaching role and some of your personal highlights?
Working for Liverpool International Academy has allowed me to travel the world and visit some places I would have never even thought of after finishing my studies at UCFB. The calibre of coaches you get to work with and learn from is incredible and something which I definitely don’t take for granted. I’m always asking questions and finding out ways I can improve my coaching delivery.
What have you brought into these roles from your BA (Hons) Football Coaching & Management programme?
The BA (Hons) Football Coaching & Management degree has taught me so much academically, as well as very important life skills. I’ve learnt the importance of being very thorough with my research - in coaching terms, this involves making sure my session plan is detailed and explains many different outcomes. The significance of being an effective communicator is key in my current roles and is something I’ve definitely learnt while studying at UCFB, group work and speak with key staff has allowed me to further my communication skills.
How did you find being a student in Manchester?
Being a student in Manchester can be demanding but rewarding, as you have to plan your university life alongside your social life. With the lure of being in close proximity of two of the biggest football clubs in the world and all the football clubs within Greater Manchester, there are so many opportunities to go and explore and watch live football. Manchester is a great city, filled with people who are always willing to lend a helping hand.
What are your favourite memories from your time at UCFB?
My favourite memories at UCFB will always be waiting in keen anticipation for the latest keynote Guest Speaker. I always looked forward to these and made sure I was present with a notepad and pen ready to steal the great tips and ideas they shared. Meeting Roy Keane and Roberto Martinez, for example, was great.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to study at UCFB or GIS?
The advice I have for anyone looking to study is to really try and get involved in all parts of university life, the academic part is so important of course. Don’t miss out on all the enrichment, extra-curricular and work experience on offer. All these experiences you gain will sit you in good stead when applying for roles later down the line. Lastly really attack the course that you’re going to study, remember you’re competing with someone in your class for the same role in a few years’ time. Put your all into your assignments, you’ll reap the benefits of this upon graduation!
