Do great footballers make great managers?

Since taking charge, Wayne Rooney, Xavi, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard have made their mark at their respective clubs (Derby County, Barcelona, Aston Villa and Everton). The four are, quite clearly, legends of the game, but has their impressive track records on the pitch contributed to their success as managers? According to UEFA Coach Pedro Mendoca, the answer is a resounding yes.

"I think that (playing at a high level) is a great opportunity because it can allow you to be a good manager. And if you are not a great player in order to play it, you need more time to arrive at that place. So if you are a great player, like Lionel Messi, and you say, 'I want to be the coach', they're going to give you the opportunity because, like Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney, they did not start in very low teams. They are going to have more opportunities."

To manage in any of the five biggest divisions in Europe (Spain, Italy, England, Germany and France), coaches need a UEFA Pro Licence. To achieve this they must complete five courses which includes an A, B and C Licence.

Many football players can't start their courses until after retiring from the game because of the relentless nature of the sport. Coaches who haven't played at the highest level can often begin their coaching journey earlier. Which approach is best?

"I think given where football is currently at, if you had to pick one, I would probably go down the playing path." sports broadcaster, Adriano Del Monte states.

"We've seen the likes of Jose Mourinho, a legendary manager. He forever will be, but he is perhaps someone who has fallen out of touch with the demands of modern-day football. So, I do think that coaching badges can only take you so far. I think that having that