Coaches or managers: In football, what's the difference?

Football managers and head coaches are essential figures with distinct responsibilities. Some clubs have a head coach who focuses on the game's technical and tactical parts and ensures the players perform at their best. In comparison, others have a manager who plays a significant role in running a club or national team. The variation in titles and roles is down to each club's unique approach to defining its leadership position's responsibilities and focuses. However, depending on the club's job description, managers may take over some of the coaches' duties, and coaches may also be responsible for managers' duties.

The two positions are different in many ways, according to Pedro Mendonca, a football coach for UEFA.

"The main difference between the coach and the manager is that the head coach's main focus is always on the team, in the game, developing the tactical and technical aspects of the game. The coach develops the training strategy and studies of the opponent. It's more focused on the game and how to win the next game." Pedro told Football Now.

"The manager is more focused on developing the team. Developing the aspect of the training, but also the facilities, the scouting process, and the negotiation with the players. They have a broader role than the coach." explains Pedro.

This distinction is crucial because the day-to-day roles of managers and head coaches can vary across Europe. For instance, Spanish club Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez takes charge of transfer policies. Because of this, the manager is relieved of some of the responsibilities, and the coach can concentrate on the tactics. In contrast, legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson of Manchester United was responsible for overseeing all areas of the