In the fast-paced world of football management, knowledge and connections can make all the difference. The ECA Club Talent & Mentoring Programme (CTMP) plays a crucial role in developing the next generation of club executives, providing them with the insights, skills and networks needed to thrive in the industry.
For mentees like Kevin Izzadeen (FC Köln) and Emin Sahin (Samsunspor), the programme has been a transformative experience, offering exposure to best practices across Europe and direct mentorship from seasoned leaders in the game.
For Izzadeen, who started as an intern before working in various football administration roles, CTMP has provided invaluable access to a diverse network of professionals. “CTMP gives you the chance to meet people from both big and small clubs, a truly diverse network. That’s invaluable in football.”
His mentor, Aki Riihilahti, a Board Member at HJK Helsinki and former Chair of the ECA Education Advisory Panel, pushed him to expand his perspective. “Aki challenged me to think beyond my own country and learn from experts in different fields. That mindset shift was crucial.” The two worked closely over a series of meetings, including a visit to Helsinki, where Izzadeen gained first-hand insights into how Riihilahti built up his club.
Meanwhile, for Sahin, the biggest takeaway has been the strength of the ECA network. “For me, the most valuable aspect of the CTMP has been the network, 25 people from across Europe with different backgrounds and positions. I know we will stay in contact.” He also highlighted how these connections have led to real-world impact, “A Spanish course mate even helped me resolve a transfer fee case. Proof that the connections you build through ECA are real and impactful.”
Under the mentorship of Ilja Kaenzig from Bundesliga side VfL Bochum, Sahin found an ideal match. “I was thrilled to be matched with Ilja. His finance background and his experience in different clubs made him a great mentor for me.” Their mentor-mentee relationship evolved beyond scheduled sessions, developing into a strong professional bond. “Over time, we’ve moved from a mentor-mentee relationship to friends.”
Reflecting on his experience as mentor, Aki Riihilahti was full of praise for the CTMP. "Football is evolving rapidly and the best leaders are those who continuously learn and adapt. Mentorship isn’t just about passing on knowledge, it’s about challenging perspectives, fostering new ideas and preparing the next generation to take football forward. The CTMP creates an environment where both mentors and mentees grow together, and that’s what makes the programme so important."
As for Ilja Kaenzig, his mentor experience with Emin underlined to him just how important the CTMP is in shaping the next generation of football leaders from across the continent. "Being a mentor in the CTMP has been a truly rewarding experience. It’s not just about simply giving advice, it’s about sharing experiences, learning from your mentee and creating meaningful professional relationships. Seeing mentees like Emin gain confidence and grow in their roles is exactly why this programme is so valuable for the future of club football."
Francesca Whitfield, Director of Group Planning and Football Finance at Manchester United and mentor for the second edition of the CTMP, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the programme's impact across the football industry. "The CTMP mentor scheme is the gold standard, bringing together experience, passion and ambition to strengthen collaboration and encourage growth in European club football. It’s a truly fulfilling experience for both mentor and mentee."
The CTMP goes beyond club football matters by offering a holistic perspective that integrates key insights into leadership, strategy and personal development. The programme blends a mixture of expert input, real-life case studies and best practices from top European clubs along with academic expertise from Nova School of Business and Economics.
Izzadeen highlighted how diverse the learning experience was, “Club Brugge emphasised the importance of data, Rapid Vienna brought valuable insights and Atletico Bilbao focused on marketing. It’s a well-rounded programme.”
For Sahin, the opportunity to step out of his comfort zone was just as important. “Before CTMP, I struggled with public speaking. This programme gave me the confidence to speak up and present myself better.”
As we prepare for the third edition of the CTMP, ECA is looking for passionate and experienced current or former club executives to step forward as mentors. This is a unique opportunity to share your knowledge, guide emerging talent and play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of football leaders. If you're ready to give back and make a lasting impact, we invite you to get in touch with the ECA Campus team at campus@ecaeurope.com and register your interest today.
For ambitious club professionals from ECA Member Clubs eager to participate in the programme, applications are still open and being accepted until 28 March 2025. Please apply by visiting the ECA Campus Website.