Liverpool’s Diogo Jota, Adrian, and Joel Matip have taken a significant step towards their post-playing careers by obtaining their UEFA B Licence coaching qualifications. The pursuit of coaching after retirement is a common path for many professional footballers, as they consider their options beyond the relatively short lifespan of their playing careers.
One example of a player-turned-coach is Liverpool’s new head coach Arne Slot, who had a successful playing career representing PEC Zwolle, NAC Breda, and Sparta Rotterdam. Following in his footsteps, Jota, Adrian, and Matip have all embarked on the journey of obtaining coaching badges through UEFA.
The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) recently announced that the trio had successfully secured their UEFA B Licence, which is the third-highest level of coaching qualification. This achievement highlights their dedication and commitment to expanding their knowledge of the game and preparing for a potential career in coaching.
Jota and Matip have been working towards their coaching badges for over a year now. Last June, they held coaching sessions for players from The Robbie Fowler Academy at the AXA Training Centre. Later in November, Jota and Adrian were pictured working with the Steven Gerrard Academy. It is worth noting that Fabinho also participated in these coaching sessions.
In 2023, goalkeeper Reece Trueman, striker Iwan Roberts (who has since left the club), and James McConnell earned their UEFA B Licence. While this accomplishment does not necessarily indicate an imminent move into coaching for any of these players, Adrian’s qualification is particularly intriguing.
Adrian has been offered a new one-year contract by Liverpool this summer. With significant changes expected in the goalkeeping staff following the departures of John Achterberg and Jack Robinson, Adrian’s coaching qualification may have factored into the decision to offer him a new contract.
On the other hand, Jurgen Klopp hinted that Joel Matip might consider retirement when his contract at Anfield expires. However, this remains unconfirmed at this point.
Among the senior trio, Jota is seen as the furthest away from starting a coaching career. The Portuguese forward has expressed doubts about becoming a first-team manager. However, he acknowledges the value of the qualification and believes that it will provide him with valuable knowledge and potentially open doors for assistant coaching roles in the future.
Obtaining a UEFA B Licence is an important milestone for these Liverpool players, as it not only enhances their understanding of the game but also increases their career prospects beyond their playing days. While their immediate plans may not involve coaching, their qualifications lay a solid foundation should they decide to pursue coaching opportunities in the future.