How To Be A Football Manager: What Does It Take?

Dreaming of leading a club to glory from the sidelines? Becoming a football manager is a challenging yet rewarding journey, requiring a blend of tactical knowledge, leadership, and relentless obsession with the beautiful game.

Let's break down what it really takes to become a football manager — whether you're aiming for Sunday League or the Premier League.

What Does A Manager Actually Do?

A football manager does far more than just pick the starting eleven on matchday. Managers at any level are responsible for setting the team’s tactical approach, motivating players and leading training sessions. At the professional stage, the role also includes liaising with the media, and working with the board on transfers and club strategy.

Managers are often the first ones in, and last ones out, every day, such is the commitment required for success.

Arne Slot said that "the reason behind success is not all tactics, it's about energy!"

He even went as far as saying that only 1% of his time is spent on tactics.

Elite managers excel at creating a culture across the whole club.

Cesc Fàbregas does too..pic.twitter.com/p7oi0moODK

— EBL (@EBL2017) June 23, 2025

Coaching Qualifications

If you’re serious about managing at any level of the English football pyramid, you'll need to earn your coaching badges through the FA Coaching Pathway. Most managers start with the FA Level 1 and 2, then progress to the UEFA B, UEFA A, and ultimately the UEFA Pro Licence – which is essential for top-tier management in the Premier League or EFL.

These courses combine practical coaching with theoretical learning, covering everything from youth development to elite performance analysis.

It is important to note that these courses are not cheap nor readily available, which is one explainer as to the lack of quality coaches in the UK.

All Experience Is Good Experience

Like with any profession, the way to get better is to practice, practice and practice. Many would-be coaches start at the grassroots, or academy level. The principles are the same, you are still preparing a team to win, and motivating a group of indivduals.

Controversial take! Coaching Badges are pretty worthless if they aren't backed up with experience.

Theory is great, but it means little if you don't experience it live, on the grass, where it really matters.

Always sharpen the tools in your coaching toolbox before adding more😉

— Rob Porter (@RJPcoach) July 12, 2023

This early stage of a career is perfect for finding your managerial identity and a tactical style. Successful football managers have a clear footballing philosophy. Whether it's Pep Guardiola’s possession-based control, Jürgen Klopp’s high-intensity pressing, or a more pragmatic approach, your tactical identity defines how your team plays and trains.

The modern manager must be flexible and adaptable as the game continues to advance at a staggering pace. Even on your local park on a Sunday morning you will see teams trying to play out from the back (to varying degrees of success).

The Barça of Pep Guardiola Pre-Wembley 2011 Champions League Finals 🔥
pic.twitter.com/iG3yO8WLBD

— MP𖤐 (@MagicalPep) August 6, 2025

Good Communicators Are Good Leaders

Managing egos, handling media pressure, and keeping players motivated all require elite communication skills. A great football manager earns respect not just through knowledge, but through empathy, clarity, and consistency.

Learn how to lead by example, give constructive feedback, and build a strong team culture. Remember, football management is as much about people as it is about the pitch.

It is a cliché in the football world, but if you have players that will "run through a brick wall" for you, then you are already halfway there.

Prepare For Setbacks and Failure

It is a very small list of managers who do not have a sacking on their CV, even the very best. What sets successful managers apart is their resilience and willingness to keep learning. Football management is a high-pressure career. Results matter, and setbacks are inevitable.

BREAKING: Napoli have sacked Carlo Ancelotti despite qualifying for the #UCL last 16 with a 4-0 win over Genk pic.twitter.com/4andGhin0Q

— FootballJOE (@FootballJOE) December 10, 2019

Summary

Becoming a football manager is not for the faint-hearted, it requires dedication, a thick skin, and an unwavering dedication to the sport. But, leading a team to victory can be incredibly fulfilling, whether it's Sunday League or a final at Wembley.