As part of the two-part Granit Xhaka | Between The Lines mini-series, he discussed with Markus Fjørtoft the bond between him and his father, from which he’s got his three non-negotiables: respect, discipline, and hard work. Like father, like son.

“One day, he will tell me I had a good game. This is my challenge, my drive.”

This is part of a two-part mini-series that delves into the world of Granit Xhaka, gaining a unique insight into his coaching aspirations, unwavering principles, and the evolution of his football philosophy. This includes never-seen-before footage of Xhaka mic'd up for an entire session alongside David Bridges and unfiltered talks to and from training.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

As part of the two-part Granit Xhaka | Between The Lines mini-series, he discussed with Markus Fjørtoft the demands of being a professional football player, and why mentality, was one of the biggest contributors to him taking that next step.

“They were more talented than me, maybe even worked better than me, but they couldn’t handle playing in front of 50/60,000 people.”

This is part of a two-part mini-series that delves into the world of Granit Xhaka , gaining a unique insight into his coaching aspirations, unwavering principles, and the evolution of his football philosophy. This includes  never-seen-before footage of Xhaka mic'd up for an entire session alongside David Bridges and unfiltered talks to and from training.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

Welcome to this week’s episode where Markus Fjortoft (@markusfjortoft) talked to Hope Powell, one of women's football's most successful and influential coaches. 

We explore her favourite football memories and how she defines success. We delve into how her experiences as a player and growing up have influenced her coaching style and approach, and the key lessons she has learned as a leader.

Further, she delved into the challenges she faced transitioning from playing to coaching, the importance of evolving and adapting in coaching, and the steps that can be taken to create a fresh start for women's football. Join us as Powell reflects on her career and shares her non-negotiables, best advice, and what she is most proud of. 

This is PFA Conversations with Hope Powell.

Hope Powell was awarded the 2022 PFA Merit award for her outstanding contribution to the women's game. She is also the course co-director of PFA Business School's EDI Directorship in Sport Organisations programme.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

In this special episode, we have a true football legend – a two-time PFA Players' Player of the Year and one of the all-time greats of the Premier League, Thierry Henry. Join us for a captivating 30-minute conversation with Liam MacDevitt (@LiamMacdevitt), as the former World Cup and Euros winner takes a trip down memory lane and reflects on the countless stars who've illuminated English football.

Thierry Henry shares his thoughts on the likes of Dennis Bergkamp and his lethal killer instinct, the sheer genius of Eden Hazard, and the indomitable invincibility of Eric Cantona. He also delves into his profound love for the art of the assist, questioning why this remarkable achievement isn't celebrated more in the beautiful game. Plus, he reveals a pivotal piece of advice from the iconic Arsène Wenger that forever changed his perspective on football.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain incredible insights from one of the most brilliant minds in the world of football. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the game's history and its most exceptional players.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

David Dein was deemed crazy by Arsenal’s chairman at the time for investing his money in the club. However, over the course of over 20 years, he was instrumental in turning Arsenal into one of the most successful football clubs in English history. A strong organizational culture is widely recognized as a critical factor in achieving success, regardless of industry or sector so how did he approach that during his time at Arsenal, and what steps did you take to establish it?

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with David Dein.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) follow-up interview with Cesc Fàbregas (@cesc4official).

Cesc Fàbregas has taken his coaching badges through The PFA. He is currently undertaking the UEFA A licence with the help of Jim Hicks, Head of Coaching, and David Bridges (@DBProTraining), Coach Educator.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

"I will tend to buck the trend. Sometimes it's easier to hire a more experienced manager, but I have  always had a passion about giving people an opportunity and for us trying to be slightly different."

Over the last two decades, Mark Ashton has hired the likes of Aidy Boothroyd, Brendan Rodgers, Sean Dyche, Malkie McKay, Lee Johnson, Michael Appleton, and Kiaran McKenna. In this short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with him, he talks about the key quality he looks for and why Kiaran McKenna is the perfect example.

Mark Ashton was supported by The PFA through the scholar education program. After his release from WBA, he had already obtained his B Tech qualification.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

How does Dennis Wise (@denniswise) look to build the Como Project (training ground, recruitment, cultural influences) and how does that compare to his time starting off as an executive at Newcastle?

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with Dennis Wise part of @PFA Conversations in Como.

Dennis Wise took his coaching badges through The @PFA, and since exploring management with the likes of Millwall and Swindon, has become technical director of Garuda Select (aimed at developing the next Indonesian football talents) and CEO of Como 1907.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

Looking back, David Dein seemed to have this touch for making key decisions that were considered radical at the time, such as forming the Premier League, appointing the relatively unknown Wenger, and hiring Sven-Goran Eriksson as England's first foreign manager. What attributes or experiences contributed to his ability to make such decisions?

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with David Dein.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

"They have absolute clarity on how I expect them to behave as people."

Since Mark Ashton arrived at Ipswich 1,5 years ago, he has hired a new manager, Director of Football Operations, and new Heads of Media, Finance and Portman Road as a venue. In this short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with Mark Ashton, he gives us an insight into how he runs the business and how lets people know what he expects from them.

Mark Ashton was supported by The PFA through the scholar education program. After his release from WBA, he had already obtained his B Tech qualification.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

We sit down with one of the most influential figures in English football, David Dein. 

His visionary leadership and bold decisions have earned him a place in the history of English football. He's most notably known for transforming Arsenal Football Club into one of the most successful clubs in English history. But Dein's impact goes beyond Arsenal, as he played a significant role in forming the Premier League and appointing England's first foreign manager.

David Dein sits down with Markus Fjortoft (@markusfjortoft) to provide us with an insight into his leadership style and approach to building a strong organizational culture. We'll also touch on the importance of emotional intelligence in business and his recruitment strategy for top talent. Furthermore, we'll explore Dein's evolution as a leader and businessman, including his non-negotiables and common misconceptions about being an owner.

This is PFA Conversations with David Dein.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

At London, Colney, one of the greatest midfielders of his generation and World Cup, Euros, Premier League, La Liga and FA Cup winner Cesc Fàbregas (@cesc4official) sits down with Markus Fjortoft (@MarkusFjortoft) for a follow-up interview, providing another fascinating insight into his coaching mind.

As part of obtaining his coaching badges with the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), Cesc revisited Arsenal for a couple of days to reunite with former teammate and current Under-18s coach, Jack Wilshere. During this chat, Cesc shed light on his experience in pursuing his coaching badges with the PFA and the insights he has gained. He also highlighted the unique challenges that arise in coaching as opposed to playing, which demand a fresh start as a student of the game. Moreover, Cesc elaborated on his collaboration with Jack Wilshere, his analytical approach to watching games, and defining Arteta's exceptional psychological acumen at Arsenal.

Cesc Fàbregas has taken his coaching badges through The PFA. He is currently undertaking the UEFA A licence with the help of Jim Hicks, Head of Coaching, and David Bridges (@DBProTraining), Coach Educator. 

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

How did Hope Powell adjust to the transition from playing to coaching, and what challenges did she face in learning how to teach the game to others effectively?

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjortoft's (@markusfjortoft) conversation with Hope Powell.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

Mark Ashton began his journey with the same dream as many other children: to become a professional footballer. He was a scholar at West Bromwich Albion and even made his first-team debut against Real Madrid in America. However, despite this promising start, he was eventually released from the club. But rather than giving up on football altogether, Ashton took on various roles within the community, academy, and commercial aspects of the same club that released him. His determination paid off, as he became the CEO of Watford at the age of 30.

Now, at Ipswich, Ashton has described himself as a "builder" with the challenge of restoring the club to the levels it used to occupy. Steeped in the legacy of Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson, the historic club, led by Mark Asthon as CEO, Kiaran McKenna as manager, and an American Ownership group, the club is entering a new era guided by the club’s mantra: “Running towards Adversity”. 

In a candid conversation with Markus Fjortoft (@markusfjortoft), Ashton shares his belief that community is at the heart of football and outlines the key building blocks necessary to generate support from both the team and the wider community. He also reflects on the challenges he faced when he was forced to transition into a new career at the age of 18, what he looks for in a manager, how he defines success when running a football club, and the lessons he has learned throughout his career. Finally, he offers advice for aspiring executives who hope to follow in his footsteps.

Mark Ashton was supported by the PFA through the scholar education program. After his release from WBA, he had already obtained his B Tech qualification.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

From non-league football to the PFA chairman Omar Beckles (@BecklesOmar) has had quite the journey. Markus Fjortoft (@markusfjortoft) met with Omar to learn about his story,  values, and vision as he takes on the new role as PFA chair. 

We'll dive into his early years and his earliest football memory, gaining insights into the man he is today. As a previous member of the PFA Players' Board and current Chair, Omar discusses the importance of the union and shares some of the biggest insights from his involvement. We'll also explore his views on the role of the footballer beyond the pitch, including his advocacy for mental health and well-being. Lastly, we'll touch on his role as a captain and his message to the community. 

This is PFA Conversations with Omar Beckles.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

Is part of Dennis Wise relishing his new role due to getting away from constant scrutinisation and pressures that surrounded him his entire playing and management career?

He admits it’s had its ups and downs but Dennis Wise is now leading one of the most exciting football projects out there.

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with Dennis Wise part of @PFA Conversations in Como.

Dennis Wise took his coaching badges through The @PFA, and since exploring management with the likes of Millwall and Swindon, has become technical director of Garuda Select (aimed at developing the next Indonesian football talents) and CEO of Como 1907.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

We head to Heston, West London, where QPR spend their working hours while their 30m training ground is completed. 

“Sir Les” is one of the rare cases of British players making the step into the executive world. I am here to talk to him about the Director of Football role he’s had at the club where it all started in his professional career. He also happened to be one of the best English strikers of his generation. 

Formally educated for the role through the @PFA effective board member program, Les Ferdinand spoke to Markus Fjørtoft (@MarkusFjortoft) therefore spoke about its practical implications: what is it actually like being a director of football? How do you define and establish culture and how best to successfully recruit? In what ways was he shaped by the managers and environments of his playing career, but with that, how does he stay updated and renew himself with the times? 

This is PFA Conversations with Les Ferdinand. 

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

"Will the "manager Fabregas" be different from the "player Fabregas" in terms of how he leads?"

Short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with Cesc Fabregas (@cesc4official) on how he would lead as a manager.

“My experience is that every time they gave me time to analyze the game from my POV when I’m on pitch, I’ve always been the better player.”

Cesc Fàbregas has taken his coaching badges through The PFA. He is currently undertaking the UEFA A licence with the help of Jim Hicks, Head of Coaching, and David Bridges (@DBProTraining), Coach Educator. 

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

What constitutes a win for Cesc Fabregas? Is it three points? Or is it a good game?During Cesc Fabregas' Arsenal days, they played an incredibly intuitive and free-flowing football. Wenger had previously said something along the lines of "as opposed from the trophies, what he he took away from his career were the more human things, the strive for perfection in playing, and when you reach that, if only for 5 minutes, it stays with you.

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with Cesc Fabregas (@cesc4official) as part of @PFA Conversations in Como.

Cesc Fàbregas has taken his coaching badges through The PFA. He is currently undertaking the UEFA A licence with the help of Jim Hicks, Head of Coaching, and David Bridges (@DBProTraining), Coach Educator. 

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

To successfully transition from one career to another cannot be taken for granted. For Dennis Wise (@denniswise), it’s had its ups and downs but he's now leading one of the most exciting football projects in the world.

In PFA Conversations with Como 1907 CEO and former England and Chelsea footballer Dennis Wise, spoke to Markus Fjørtoft (@MarkusFjortoft) about how he looked to build the Como project (training ground, cultural influences etc), how that compares to his time starting off as an executive at Newcastle, and if it was a relief coming to Italy and avoiding the intense scrutinization that tends to be a constant in England.

Dennis Wise took his coaching badges through The @PFA, and since exploring management with the likes of Millwall and Swindon, has become technical director of Garuda Select (aimed at developing the next Indonesian football talents) and CEO of Como 1907. 

This is PFA Conversations with Dennis Wise.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

On a chilly Sunday afternoon, at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia overlooking Lake Como, we were in the company of one of the most successful midfielders of his generation. He's now 36, and with the help of The PFA (@PFA), preparing for what follows after an extraordinary playing career: management. This conversation provides a cunning insight into his football mind. Markus Fjørtoft (@MarkusFjortoft) sat down with Cesc to discuss what constitutes a win, players' lack of freedom in the modern game and if we will ever see a new Fabregas, managers' different impacts, how we would have benefited having someone like Wenger later on in his career, and what next for Cesc Fàbregas.

Cesc Fàbregas (@cesc4official) has taken his coaching badges through The PFA. He is currently undertaking the UEFA A licence with the help of Jim Hicks, Head of Coaching, and David Bridges (@DBProTraining), Coach Educator. 

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

What is lost in the modern game according to Cesc Fàbregas.

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with Cesc Fabregas (@cesc4official).

Cesc Fàbregas has taken his coaching badges through The PFA. He is currently undertaking the UEFA A licence with the help of Jim Hicks, Head of Coaching, and David Bridges (@DBProTraining), Coach Educator.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

In this honest excerpt from our conversation with Philippe Senderos, the Swiss football legend, we delve into the minds of elite players and their pursuit of perfection. Philippe shares with Markus  (@MarkusFjortoft) his insights into the very best players managed the pressure to excel and discusses the balance between performance and enjoyment. He also honestly reflects on his personal journey and the evolving definition of success in his career. 

Formerly the Sporting Director at his hometown club, Servette, in the Swiss Super League, Philippe Senderos now imparts his wisdom as a lecturer for the PFA's (@PFA) groundbreaking Business School initiative. 

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

Delve into the world of Granit Xhaka with Markus Fjortoft (@MarkusFjortoft), gaining a unique insight into his coaching aspirations, unwavering principles, and the evolution of his football philosophy. The Switzerland captain reflects on his journey under renowned managers such as Arteta, Wenger, and Xabi Alonso. Returning to the Rhein region, where it all began for the 19-year-old Xhaka, he shares insights about dealing with discomfort and navigating the challenges of not being able to be the person he wants to be in the world of football. Witness never-seen-before footage of Xhaka mic'd up for an entire session and unfiltered talks to and from training.

This marks the first part of "Between the Lines" with Granit Xhaka, a deep-dive into the world of the player, coach, and leader.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) follow-up interview with Cesc Fàbregas (@cesc4official).

Cesc Fàbregas has taken his coaching badges through The PFA. He is currently undertaking the UEFA A licence with the help of Jim Hicks, Head of Coaching, and David Bridges (@DBProTraining), Coach Educator.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

What principles and values taught during her formative years, has shaped how Hope Powell has looked to lead since?

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjortoft's (@markusfjortoft) conversation with Hope Powell.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

Due to direction of the modern game, does Cesc think we will ever see a type of player similar to himself?

This is a short excerpt from Markus Fjørtoft's (@MarkusFjortoft) chat with Cesc Fabregas (@cesc4official).

Cesc Fàbregas has taken his coaching badges through The PFA. He is currently undertaking the UEFA A licence with the help of Jim Hicks, Head of Coaching, and David Bridges (@DBProTraining), Coach Educator.

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

We sit down with Philippe Senderos, the Swiss football icon renowned for his illustrious career with clubs such as Arsenal, Fulham, AC Milan, and Rangers. 

Alongside Markus Fjortoft (@MarkusFjortoft), Philippe discusses the challenges he encountered while reinventing himself in the football landscape and the process of redirecting the same passion and dedication he had as a player into his new career. He candidly shares the evolution of his definition of success, drawing comparisons between his roles as a player and a Sporting Director. Discover how Philippe views the ever-changing dynamics of success in football and the key differentiators that set top sports executives apart.

Philippe's story is a testament to the enduring pursuit of excellence and the continuous quest for improvement in the world of sports. Whether you're a football enthusiast or intrigued by the inner workings of sports management, the episode provides a fresh perspective on the transition from player to sports director.

Formerly the Sporting Director at his hometown club, Servette, in the Swiss Super League, Philippe Senderos now imparts his wisdom as a lecturer for the PFA's (@PFA) groundbreaking Business School initiative. 

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association