Sporting institutions kick off global partnership

A new international education partnership is set to deliver courses designed to shape the next generation of sports industry leaders.

The University Campus of Football Business (UCFB), which is based at Wembley Stadium in London and the Etihad Campus in Manchester, has announced a strategic partnership with Barcelona-headquartered the Johan Cruyff Institute to deliver three new programmes spanning undergraduate, postgraduate and executive levels.

The courses include a BA in Sports Management, an MSc in Sports Directorship and an Executive Course in Sports Leadership, designed to support professionals at all stages of their careers.

Delivered across locations including London, Manchester and online, the programmes aim to equip students with the skills needed to navigate the evolving global sports sector.

Brendan Flood, founder and chair at UCFB, said: “This partnership represents a significant milestone for UCFB and for the future of global sports education. 

“UCFB and Johan Cruyff Institute share a belief that education must sit at the heart of professionalising sport worldwide.

“By combining our academic innovation and industry networks with Johan Cruyff Institute’s global perspective and leadership heritage, we are creating a powerful platform to develop the next generation of sports leaders; individuals who will shape the industry strategically, sustainably, and with true understanding of its global impact.”

Jordi Cruyff, son of legendary player and manager Johan Cruyff and a former Barcelona and Manchester United player, who is currently technical director at AFC Ajax, added: “Developing leaders who understand both the game and the strategy behind it is essential for the future of sport. 

“This partnership with UCFB enables us to bring our vision and experience to the development of professionals prepared to make decisions with identity and a global perspective.”

The partnership marks the beginning of a wider collaboration between the two institutions, with plans to expand course offerings and strengthen links between education and the sports industry, with a focus on developing skills in leadership, governance and commercial practice.

Albert Romans, general manager of Johan Cruyff Institute, added: “It is a privilege for Johan Cruyff Institute to establish this strategic alliance with UCFB, a leading institution in specialised higher education for the sports industry. 

“The combination of its academic strength and close industry ties, together with our experience and international network, enables us to develop innovative programmes aligned with the real needs of professionals and sports organisations worldwide.”

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