AFC’s 5th Coach Education Conference Sets Vision for Asia’s Next-Generation Tacticians

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has kicked off its 5th Coach Education Conference in Kuala Lumpur, gathering over 100 elite coaching tutors from across its Member Associations (MAs) under the ambitious theme: “Shaping the Future of Coach Education.”

Held over three days in the Malaysian capital, the event brings together leading global experts to align AFC nations with the principles of the AFC Coaching Convention—laying the foundation for modern, forward-thinking coaching across the continent.

Global Expertise Meets Asian Ambition

The conference features a powerhouse lineup of speakers, including:

• Frank Ludolph, UEFA Technical Advisor

• Jess Ibrom and Oscar Gonzales, FIFA Experts

• Niall O’Regan, Football Association of Ireland

• Nasser Larguet, Saudi Arabian Football Federation

Together, they will guide attendees through key issues like tutor development, re-evaluation for Convention membership, and best practices in licensing procedures.

Preparing Coaches for the Game of Tomorrow

In his keynote speech, AFC Technical Director Andy Roxburgh set the tone:

“We are not preparing coaches for the game of 20 years ago. Our mission is to help them navigate the future—by understanding the present and thinking laterally.”

He also emphasised the emotional dimension of coaching:

“Tutors must understand how emotions influence their own behaviour, as well as the mindset and performance of their players.”

A Holistic Approach to Coach Development

The opening day explored the evolving role of modern coaches, from tactical shifts—such as the changing profile of strikers—to essential off-pitch competencies like leadership, media handling, and crisis management. Attendees discussed how these soft skills are increasingly critical in elite football environments.

Looking Ahead: Emotions, Equality, and Elite Insights

Upcoming sessions will dive into:

• UEFA Coaching Convention standards

• The psychology of emotion in football

• Findings from major AFC tournaments, including:

  • AFC Champions League Elite™

  • AFC Women’s Champions League™

  • AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025™

A special highlight includes a deep-dive into the AFC–Japan Football Association Women’s Pro Diploma course, which completed its third module just last month.

This landmark conference reaffirms the AFC’s commitment to equipping Asia’s coaches with the knowledge, tools, and mindset required to thrive in a fast-changing football world.