Words Brian Flynn

Duncan Jones, Head of Women’s Football, is proud to unveil the backroom team for the Altrincham FC Women’s First Team and Elite U18/Reserve Team ahead of the 2025/26 season.

With an ambitious vision for development and long-term success, the club has assembled a dynamic, forward-thinking team of coaches and support staff to lead the women’s programme into an exciting new chapter. This diverse group brings a wealth of experience from grassroots, academy, and international football – united by a shared commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and player progression.

First Team Manager | Daryll Abrahams

A former club scholar and lifelong Alty supporter from Sale, Daryll Abrahams returns to the Robins in a leadership role with vast experience in coaching and education. A UEFA-licensed coach with multiple degrees, Daryll has worked at top clubs including Manchester United, Liverpool, and most recently, Juventus.

Alongside his work at iSPORTS Football College and previous leadership at Sale United – where he oversaw over 1,250 players and 120 coaches – Daryll’s return marks a bold step forward for the women’s game at Altrincham.

Elite U18/Reserve Team Manager | Mihai Damian

Mihai brings a unique global perspective, shaped by his upbringing across Romania, Spain, and Scotland. With a background in enterprise IT and AI transformation, Mihai applies analytical precision and strategic thinking to player development.

Having previously led Sale United Phoenix U18s to back-to-back league titles and coached Macclesfield FC u14s Elite in the Junior Premier League (JPL), he’s well-positioned to guide the club’s next generation of female talent.

James Findlow

James joins with a strong focus on inclusion, player well-being, and technical excellence. A UEFA-licensed coach with further FA and FAW goalkeeping qualifications, he has worked with Manchester United Foundation, PSG Academy, and currently serves as a Sports & Education Coach at Burnley FC.

Through his role at Strike Conditioning, James has championed goalkeeper development across all levels, especially within Emerging and Regional Talent Centres in the North-West.

Spencer O’Connor

At just 21, Spencer brings youthful energy and dedication to his craft. Currently progressing towards his UEFA B License, he has already gained experience with Altrincham FC Women, grassroots girls’ teams, and Manchester United’s Street Reds programme. His commitment to ongoing development and connection with the club make him a strong asset to the coaching staff.

Timur Zakirov

Timur offers valuable continuity, having coached many dual-registered Altrincham/Sale U18 players. UEFA licensed, with international experience in South Korea’s Rising Stars Academy and a professional background as a technical consultant at KPMG, Timur blends global insight with local knowledge.

His passion for structured development and collaboration aligns well with Altrincham’s growing ambitions.

Anisa Ali

Anisa brings a fresh, inclusive approach to the staff team. A UEFA-licensed coach currently working within Manchester United’s Street Reds and Ability Counts programmes, she supports holistic player development with a strong focus on mental well-being.

With a background in health consultancy, Anisa’s arrival strengthens the club’s commitment to well-rounded support for players on and off the pitch.

Janae Curtis

Aged 33 and UEFA C and FA Talent ID Level 2 qualified, Janae brings with her a wealth of grassroots, international, and academy-level coaching experience. From developing the girls' football programme at Sale United from the ground up to coaching across the U.S. with Juventus Soccer Club and Burlingame SC, her passion for player development shines through. Closer to home, she has worked as a scout for Manchester United’s Girls Academy and also coordinates match days for their boys’ academy.

Harry Dare

Harry joins the team with eight years of coaching experience, including at Juventus Academy and Port Vale FC. UEFA licensed and Manchester-based, his approach emphasises professionalism, player growth, and high standards. Harry’s alignment with the club’s ethos and energy will help build a strong on-pitch identity for the team.

Expanded Support Team

Beyond the coaching staff, Altrincham FC Women have made significant progress across the wider infrastructure to support performance and development:

Media & Communications Team | A dedicated unit supporting visibility and storytelling around the club.

• 7x Photographers & Videographers | To enhance matchday coverage, training analysis and promotional media
• 9x Analysts | Providing in-depth data insights and opposition scouting
• 7x Scouts | Driving talent identification and recruitment across the region
• 5x Medical & Fitness Staff | Including physiotherapists, strength & conditioning coaches, and a team psychologist to support physical and mental health

With this strong foundation in place, Altrincham FC Women are ready to take bold strides into the 2025/26 season. The future is bright for the women’s game at Altrincham Football Club.

Opening Evening | June 5th