The Albanian Football Association (FSHF) has officially announced the third edition of the UEFA Goalkeeper B coaching course, a highly specialized program designed to prepare goalkeeper coaches for modern football demands. This initiative reflects Albania’s growing commitment to professional training standards and technical development within its football community, especially as the role of the goalkeeper continues to evolve into one of the most complex and influential positions on the field.
The course will begin in March 2026 and will conclude in September 2026. It features a carefully structured curriculum divided into two main stages. The first phase consists of theoretical classroom sessions led by certified instructors, while the second phase includes practical training in selected clubs, where candidates can apply the methods and concepts learned during the program. At the end of the course, participants will undergo a final examination to assess their knowledge and practical coaching competence.
The program will be directed by Erion Meta, the Head of the Goalkeeping Area at the Albanian Football Association. Meta is widely recognized for his experience in goalkeeper coaching and for his contributions to strengthening Albania’s coaching education structure. His leadership is expected to ensure high professional standards throughout the UEFA Goalkeeper B program.
According to the regulations of the FSHF Education Department, candidates must meet several requirements to be eligible for the course. These criteria are established by UEFA to ensure that participants possess the foundation necessary to advance to a specialized goalkeeper license. First, applicants must be at least 20 years old, demonstrating the maturity needed for professional coaching responsibilities. They must also present a valid medical certificate issued within the last three months, confirming that they are physically fit to participate in both theoretical sessions and intensive field practice.
A clean legal record is essential as well. Candidates must not have been convicted of criminal offenses or sanctioned by the Disciplinary Commission of FSHF. This condition aligns with UEFA’s broader policy requiring integrity and professionalism in all coaching roles. Another mandatory requirement is holding a valid UEFA C license, which ensures that all applicants have already completed basic football coaching education and understand foundational coaching principles.
Foreign citizens who wish to apply for the course must also demonstrate proficiency in the Albanian language. This must be proven through an officially recognized certificate issued by authorized institutions. Since the program content, materials, and examinations are conducted in Albanian, language competency is crucial for ensuring effective participation.
Registration for the UEFA Goalkeeper B course is open until February 6, 2026. Due to the course’s growing popularity and limited slots, early application is highly recommended. The program represents an important opportunity for Albanian coaches who wish to advance in their careers, as well as for foreign candidates seeking to expand their professional qualifications in a rapidly developing football environment.
The importance of this course extends beyond individual career development. Albania has been investing significantly in modern football infrastructure, youth academies, and coaching education. As a result, the demand for specialized goalkeeper coaches has increased across the country’s professional clubs, youth teams, and regional academies. Modern goalkeeping requires advanced tactical awareness, superior technical ability, and strong psychological training. Coaches trained under UEFA standards are equipped to provide high-level instruction that meets the needs of today’s game.
The UEFA Goalkeeper B license is recognized throughout Europe and opens the door to coaching positions not only in Albania but also abroad. Many Albanian goalkeeper coaches who completed previous editions have gone on to work with Superliga clubs, national academy programs, and regional federations. The third edition of the course is expected to further strengthen the network of qualified goalkeeper coaches in the region.
For more information or to submit an application, interested candidates can contact the Education Directorate of FSHF at: drejtoria.edukimit@fshf.al. The Albanian Football Association encourages all motivated coaches who meet the criteria to apply and take advantage of this valuable professional pathway. As Albania continues to make strides in football development, opportunities like the UEFA Goalkeeper B course remain essential for building the next generation of high-quality goalkeeper coaches who can impact the game at every level.