What does a football manager do? Key responsibilities and how to become one

In professional football, there are key figures who may not always be in the spotlight but are fundamental to a team's long-term success. One such role is that of the football manager, a position that has grown in strategic importance in recent decades as the sport becomes more global and business-oriented.

If you're considering a future in this field, the Master in Football Coaching and Management and the Master in Football Coaching Online at Real Madrid Graduate School – Universidad Europea offer specialised training tailored to the unique challenges of modern football management. These programmes are ideal for those looking to step into leadership roles within football clubs at any level.

What does a football manager do?

A football manager is responsible for overseeing the sporting and operational aspects of a football team. While in some countries the term is used interchangeably with “coach,” in the European and particularly Spanish context, the football manager is a more comprehensive figure—often managing both on-field and off-field strategy.

They are entrusted with defining the club's long-term vision, managing personnel, making key decisions about signings and transfers, and acting as a bridge between players, coaches, and the club's executive leadership.

Main responsibilities of a football manager

So, what does a football manager do on a day-to-day basis? Their role includes:

• Designing the squad and managing player recruitment.
• Supervising coaching staff and medical teams.
• Planning budgets and overseeing spending on the first team.
• Coordinating with youth academies and scouting departments.
• Representing the club at official events, press conferences, and meetings.
• Collaborating with media and marketing departments.

These wide-ranging responsibilities make the football manager a cornerstone of any club’s success—both on and off the pitch.

Football Manager vs. Sporting Director

While these roles may overlap, they are not the same. A sporting director primarily handles administrative tasks and manages player contracts, transfers, and negotiations. A football manager, on the other hand, takes a more holistic approach—balancing sporting objectives with operational oversight and sometimes even stepping into coaching duties.

Salary of a football manager

Football manager salaries vary significantly depending on the country, club, and level of experience. In Spain’s top-tier clubs, salaries typically range from £150,000 to over £1 million per year. In lower divisions, earnings tend to fall between £30,000 and £80,000 annually.

Why study a master in Football Coaching?

The Master in Football Coaching and Management and the Master in Football Coaching Online at Real Madrid Graduate School – Universidad Europea are designed for professionals who want to go beyond theory and immerse themselves in the realities of modern football. Key advantages include:

• Direct link to the industry: Students learn from experienced professionals connected to Real Madrid and other top clubs.
• Practical approach: Courses combine academic study with real-world projects, case studies, and networking opportunities.
• Flexibility: The online option makes it possible to balance professional commitments with education.
• Global perspective: With an international student body and faculty, graduates gain insights into football’s global business and sporting dynamics.
• Career advancement: Alumni are equipped to step into leadership roles in coaching, management, and club operations across all levels of football.

Final thoughts: Turning passion into profession

Becoming a football manager demands more than just a love for the game—it requires leadership, strategic thinking, and continuous professional development. The Real Madrid Graduate School – Universidad Europea offers a wide range of specialised training options. In addition to the coaching and management programmes mentioned earlier, aspiring professionals can also explore the Master in High Performance in Madrid and Online, as well as the School’s broader portfolio of sports master's degrees designed to prepare future leaders in the world of sport.

Mini Summary

• Football managers oversee both sporting and operational aspects of clubs.
• Responsibilities include recruitment, budgeting, staff supervision, and external representation.
• Distinct from sporting directors, who mainly handle contracts and negotiations.
• Salaries vary greatly depending on league and experience.
• Success in this role requires leadership, strategy, and professional training opportunities such as those at Real Madrid Graduate School – Universidad Europea.