Nantes Project – Development of a Professional Women’s Football Structure
Over a three-year period, a comprehensive strategic and operational plan was executed to professionalize the women’s football section at FC Nantes. The project led to significant advancements in both sporting and institutional dimensions, building a sustainable, forward-thinking model.
⚖️ Legal and Structural Organization of the Club
One of the foundational pillars of the project was to formalize and professionalize the club’s internal structure.
- A dedicated legal and administrative framework was established specifically for the women’s section.
- The first professional contracts for academy-developed players were signed, marking a historic shift for the club.
- A comprehensive support system for players was introduced, combining legal, sporting, and personal development guidance.
- The goal was to ensure that the section operated autonomously yet integrally within the broader club ecosystem.
🧭 Creating a Development Pathway Between the First Team, Reserves, and U19s
To secure long-term player development and continuity:
- A unified methodology was designed and implemented across the First Team, Reserves (B team), and U19 squads.
- Technical, tactical, and physical alignment was prioritized to ensure fluid progression from youth levels to the professional squad.
- An individual development plan was created for each player, with constant monitoring and adjustments by the coaching staff.
- This strategic alignment significantly accelerated the integration of young talent into the first team setup.
📝 First Professional Contracts for Homegrown Talent
One of the most impactful achievements was the signing of the club’s first-ever professional contracts for players developed internally.
- A unified methodology was designed and implemented across the First Team, Reserves (B team), and U19 squads.
- Technical, tactical, and physical alignment was prioritized to ensure fluid progression from youth levels to the professional squad.
- An individual development plan was created for each player, with constant monitoring and adjustments by the coaching staff.
- This strategic alignment significantly accelerated the integration of young talent into the first team setup.