About Us

WELCOME TO THE IFA

Our state-of-the-art facilities, expert coaching staff, and comprehensive programs are designed to cater to all levels of expertise. At the IFA, we believe in the power of football to bring people together, inspire dreams, and create lasting memories. Join us and become a part of a dynamic community that values teamwork, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.

Welcome to the International Football Agency, where football is not just a game, but a way of life.

At the IFA, we are committed to creating an environment where players can thrive both on and off the field.

Our programs are tailored to develop technical skills, strategic understanding, and personal growth, ensuring that every member reaches their full potential.

We also offer numerous events, workshops, and tournaments that foster camaraderie and a sense of belonging within our football family. Embrace the passion, discipline, and joy of football with us, and let’s build a brighter future for Irish football together.

OUR MISSION IS TO PROVIDE A FRIENDLY ACADEMY

Where young footballers can thrive. We are dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive environment that fosters skill development, confidence, and a love for the game.

MOKHTAR ADDANI

Meet Our Academy Head of Coaching and Founder of the International Football Agency: Mr. Mokhtar Addani

We are honored to present Mr. Mokhtar Addani, the distinguished Head of Coaching at our academy and the visionary founder of the International Football Agency (IFA). Mr. Addani’s illustrious career spans over two decades, marked by innovative coaching methodologies and a profound dedication to player development. His expertise has been honed through extensive experience in top leagues in France, Italy, and the Republic of Ireland.

Credentials and Expertise

A Legacy of Excellence

Mr. Addani holds an impressive array of qualifications, including:

  • UEFA A License
  • UEFA Elite Youth A License
  • UEFA B License
  • UEFA Youth License
  • Diploma in Psychology Coaching
  • FAI Child Protection in Football Professional First Aid

His comprehensive qualifications reflect his unwavering commitment to coaching excellence and player development.

Innovative Coaching Methodologies

Renowned for his forward-thinking approach, Mr. Addani excels in designing coaching philosophies and long-term strategies that lead to tangible on-field success. His methodologies have been successfully implemented across various clubs and academies, contributing to a cohesive and progressive style of play that enhances both team performance and individual player growth

Elite Coaching Experience

Mr. Addani has made significant contributions to renowned academies in France and Italy, alongside his work in Ireland. His roles have been pivotal in scouting, match analysis, and tactical development, working closely with top academies in these countries' premier leagues.

Director of Football Experience

Professional Achievements

Throughout his career, Mr. Addani has been involved with several teams in the League of Ireland, contributing significantly at various levels, from youth to senior teams. His roles have encompassed:

  • Developing and implementing comprehensive coaching philosophies and methodologies.
  • Planning and delivering age-appropriate coaching curriculums.
  • Establishing a consistent style of play across all academy levels.
  • Leading coach education programs and utilising data analytics to enhance performance.

Player Development

Mr. Addani has been instrumental in the development of numerous Irish players, many of whom have successfully transitioned to top teams in Poland, Italy, England, France, and the UAE. His mentorship and innovative coaching techniques have been key to their growth and success.

Continuous Learning and Development

Mr. Addani’s commitment to continuous learning is evident in his visits to leading clubs such as Celtic FC, Rangers FC, Aston Villa FC, Leicester City FC, Monza AC, Bologna AC, S.S. Lazio Roma, AC Milan and Juventus. These visits have allowed him to study their coaching methods and best practices, further enriching his coaching expertise.
Through his extensive experience and dedicated study, Mr. Addani has developed a unique coaching style specifically tailored for the Irish footballer. His approach integrates modern tactical aspects and the necessary social skills such as discipline, patience, determination, and teamwork. This holistic coaching philosophy not only advances players’ technical and tactical abilities but also fosters their overall personal development.

International Football Agency (IFA)

Founder of the International Football Agency

In 2019, Mr. Addani founded the International Football Agency, a development academy dedicated to fostering football talent, particularly in Ireland. Under his leadership, IFA has achieved remarkable success, including

  • Developing numerous football talents in Ireland.
  • Representing Italian Serie A,B teams in the selection of Irish players for trials.
  • Building a robust global soccer network to create opportunities for Irish players.

Achievements with IFA

Establishing a respected presence in the Irish soccer community. Enhancing the development landscape of Irish soccer.

Mr. Addani’s profound understanding of soccer development and his innovative approach have made IFA a reputable hub for nurturing football talent.

ANTHONY KAVANAGH

Meet our Head of Girls Coaching of the IFA Academy

With over two decades of coaching experience, Anthony specializes in fostering player development and cultivating cohesive, high-performing teams. His coaching repertoire spans all levels of the game, including the Underage League of Ireland. Anthony is deeply committed to achieving excellence and consistently surpassing expectations, even in high-pressure environments.

Credentials and Expertise

A Legacy of Excellence

Credentials

  • UEFA C License
  • UEFA Grassroots Leader Certificate
  • National Goalkeeping C License
  • Coerver Youth Diploma 1
  • PFSA Talent identification in Football Level 2

Football Experience

Anthony brings a wealth of experience as a player at both national and international levels. He has competed at the highest tiers of Irish football, representing Shamrock Rovers in first-team football within the League of Ireland. His versatility and skillset extended to the international stage, where he was a member of the Ireland Futsal Team, showcasing his adaptability across different formats of the game.

During his academic pursuits, Anthony continued to excel in football, earning the honor of representing the Ireland University Team. His experience across these diverse platforms highlights his deep understanding of the game, commitment to excellence, and ability to perform at an elite level.

Role in Academy

Development and Management of Soccer Talent within our Academy.

Strategic Planning and Vision – Program Development / Strategic Direction.

Player Development – Talent ID / Individual Progression / Training Programs.

Performance Evaluation / Communication / Data Analysis / innovation.

Holistic Approach supporting the players to be the best version of themselves.

Working with International Clubs like S.S. Lazio providing trials for our players.

FEATURES

Our Mission

At the International Football Agency of Ireland (IFAE), our mission is to nurture and develop football talent through world-class training, education, and mentorship. We are dedicated to providing a comprehensive and supportive environment where young athletes can achieve their highest potential both on and off the pitch.

Our training programs are meticulously designed to offer top-tier coaching that focuses on enhancing technical skills, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, and mental strength. We believe that the journey to becoming a professional football player requires more than just on-field prowess; it demands a holistic approach that includes academic excellence, personal development, and character building.

Team

Our team at the International Football Agency of Ireland (IFAE) is composed of experienced coaches, trainers, and mentors who bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and passion to the academy. Each member is dedicated to the personal and athletic growth of our players, ensuring that they receive the best possible guidance and support throughout their journey.

Our staff includes former professional players who have firsthand experience of what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the sport. Their insights and mentorship provide invaluable perspectives to our young athletes. Additionally, we have UEFA-licensed coaches who bring a high standard of coaching excellence to our training programs. Their advanced knowledge of football tactics, techniques, and strategies helps our players develop a deep understanding of the game.

We also prioritize the mental well-being and psychological development of our athletes. Our team includes sports psychologists who work with players to enhance their mental strength, focus, and resilience. By addressing the psychological aspects of performance, we help our players build the confidence and mental toughness needed to thrive under pressure.

Philosophy

At the International Football Agency, we believe in a holistic approach to football development.

Training Philosophy and Approach

At the International Football Agency, our training philosophy is rooted in the belief that excellence in football comes from a balanced combination of technical skill, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, and mental strength. We aim to develop well-rounded players who excel in all aspects of the game. Here’s a closer look at our approach:

Technical Development

We place a strong emphasis on technical skills, ensuring that our players have a solid foundation in the fundamentals of football. Our training sessions focus on ball control, passing, shooting, dribbling, and other essential techniques. Through repetitive drills, small-sided games, and individualized coaching, we help players refine their skills and improve their overall game performance.

Tactical Awareness

Understanding the tactical aspects of football is crucial for success at higher levels. Our coaches teach players the principles of positioning, movement off the ball, game strategy, and decision-making. By analyzing match situations and learning various formations and styles of play, players become more tactically astute and able to adapt to different game scenarios.

Physical Conditioning

Physical fitness is a key component of our training program. We incorporate strength and conditioning exercises, endurance training, speed and agility drills, and injury prevention techniques to ensure that our players are in peak physical condition. Our fitness programs are tailored to the specific needs of each player, helping them to build stamina, strength, and resilience.

Mental Strength

Mental toughness is essential for achieving success in football. We work with sports psychologists to help our players develop a strong mindset, focusing on aspects such as confidence, concentration, resilience, and stress management. Through mental conditioning exercises, visualization techniques, and goal-setting workshops, we prepare our players to handle the pressures of competitive football.

Holistic Development

At IFA, we believe that personal growth off the field is just as important as athletic development. Our holistic approach includes academic support, life skills training, and character development. We encourage our players to pursue their education and provide tutoring and mentoring to help them balance their academic and athletic commitments. We also teach valuable life skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork, preparing our players for success beyond football.

Individualized Coaching

Every player at IFA is unique, and our coaching approach reflects this. We provide personalized training plans that cater to the individual needs and goals of each player. Our coaches regularly assess and monitor progress, offering tailored feedback and adjustments to ensure continuous improvement.

Competitive Opportunities

We believe that real-world experience is crucial for development. Our players participate in local, national, and international competitions, allowing them to test their skills against high-level opponents. These competitive opportunities provide valuable learning experiences and help players to showcase their talent on larger stages.

By integrating these elements into our training philosophy, IFA creates an environment where young athletes can thrive. We are committed to developing the next generation of football stars, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to succeed both on and off the pitch.

TOP PLAYERS IN OUR ACADEMY

Rising Stars of Tomorrow

Bohemian FC

Michelle Muddiman

Centre Back

Pescara Calcio

Ryan Fagan

Midfield

Wexford FC

Filip Wasilewski

Midfield

C.K. United

Abi Ward

Right Back

Facilities

We pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art facilities designed to support the comprehensive development of our athletes

Training Pitches

Our training complex features multiple full-size, natural grass and artificial turf pitches. These pitches are maintained to the highest standards, providing a professional-quality playing surface year-round. This allows our players to train in conditions that closely mimic those of top-tier football clubs around the world.

Indoor Training Center

Our indoor training center is equipped with the latest technology to support skill development and tactical training. The facility includes a full-size indoor pitch, which is ideal for training during inclement weather. The center also features a video analysis suite, where players and coaches can review footage to enhance tactical understanding and performance.

Fitness and Conditioning Gym

The on-site fitness and conditioning gym is outfitted with modern equipment tailored for athletic training. It includes strength and conditioning machines, free weights, and cardiovascular equipment. Our strength and conditioning coaches design personalized workout programs to help players build the physical attributes needed for elite performance, such as strength, speed, and endurance.

PLAYER SELECTION PROCESS

  • Scouting: Our experienced scouts attend local and international matches to identify talented players.
  • Trials: Selected players are invited to participate in trials and training sessions organized by our agency.
  • Evaluation: Players are assessed based on their skills, performance, and potential during these sessions.
  • Selection: The best players are chosen and given opportunities to play in international matches and camps.
  • Development: Continuous support and training are provided to help players achieve their full potential and secure contracts with top clubs.
This structure highlights your agency’s role in organizing football events and selecting players for international opportunities, showcasing both upcoming and past events.

FAQs

Your Questions Answered

FAQs

We offer programs for various age groups starting from U10 up to senior players. Each age group has tailored training sessions to suit their developmental needs.

You can register your child by filling out the contact form on the ‘Contact Us’ page on our website or by contacting us directly by phone.

To book a one-to-one or small group session you can fill out the ‘Book A Session Request’ form on the ‘Group Training Sessions’ page under the ‘Services’ heading. Alternatively, you can contact us via phone – 085 108 1898 for boys and 086 831 9960 for girls.

Yes, we have dedicated programs for goalkeepers. If you wish to book a goalkeeper specific one-to-one training session please get in contact with us via our website or phone number.

The full package includes technical, tactical, physical, and mental development training, as well as professional evaluations and access to our elite training programs.

Yes, we offer professional evaluations to assess players’ skills and potential. Details about the evaluation process can be found under the “Professional Evaluation” section.

To apply for international trials and showcases you must be an active member of the IFA Academy. Details about upcoming trials will be shared on our social media pages and with players via SMS.

Yes, you can find us on Instagram at @internationalfootball_agency. Make sure you give us a follow!

We offer training plans for parents to help support their child’s development. 

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