Words Brian Flynn

Altrincham FC Women are delighted to announce the appointment of Mihai Damian as the new Elite U18/Reserve Team Manager, ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Mihai will officially begin his role on 1st July 2025, as part of an exciting new chapter for the club’s female pathway.

A Diverse Background, A Unified Vision

Born in Romania, raised in Spain, shaped by Scotland, and now coaching in England, Mihai brings a truly international perspective to his role. With a professional background in enterprise IT and AI transformation, Mihai blends analytical thinking, leadership, and a growth mindset — all of which inform his unique approach to player development.

Since 2018, Mihai has coached across multiple age groups in the UK. He most recently led Macclesfield FC U14s Elite in the Junior Premier League (JPL) and Sale United Phoenix, guiding them to consecutive league titles in the FA Timperley & District Junior Football League after taking over as U15s coach. His coaching journey spans grassroots through to elite youth levels, giving him a well-rounded view of long-term player progression.

This exciting new addition strengthens the longstanding bond between Altrincham FC Juniors and the Women’s section, offering clear and structured opportunities for young players to continue their football journey within the club. It also ensures that players of all abilities have access to a progressive and supportive environment that nurtures both personal and athletic growth.

A Pathway with Purpose

The Elite U18/Reserve Team will serve as a vital stepping stone between youth football and the senior game, providing high-quality coaching, performance-focused training, and competitive match experience. The programme is designed to prepare players technically, tactically, physically, and mentally for the demands of women’s football — all within the framework of Altrincham FC’s values and vision.

Philosophy & Approach

Mihai’s philosophy is simple but powerful: “put the person before the player.” His focus lies in creating a high-trust, high-expectation environment where individuals are challenged, supported, and inspired — both on and off the pitch.

Currently working towards his UEFA B Licence with the Scottish FA, Mihai holds a variety of qualifications including:

• PFSA Level 2 – Talent ID & Opposition Scouting
• PFSA Level 3 – Advanced Reporting
• Scottish FA Goalkeeping Awards (Levels 1.2 & 1.3)
• CMI Leadership & Management Accreditation

Mihai is also a certified personal trainer and a passionate student of martial arts, fluent in Romanian, Spanish, Catalan and English, with working knowledge of several other languages — equipping him to connect with players from all backgrounds.

“For me, football is about more than tactics or technique,” said Mihai. “It’s about helping people grow. I aim to challenge every individual to be just 1% better than they were yesterday.”

Building a Strong Coaching Team

Mihai will join forces with Daryll Abrahams, Altrincham FC Women’s First Team Manager, as part of an integrated coaching structure. The full backroom team will be announced in due course, but the club is already buzzing with anticipation.

Speaking on the appointment, Daryll Abrahams shared: “Things are revolutionising at Altrincham FC Women, and I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Mihai on board. 

"I had the pleasure of working with him previously, where his passion, dedication, and player-centred approach made a lasting impact. He’s been successful in developing individuals and winning titles — and more importantly, he genuinely cares about helping people grow.”

As the club expands its pathway with the launch of the Elite U18/Reserve Team, Mihai’s arrival marks a significant step in Altrincham’s mission to create opportunities for aspiring female players at all stages of their journey.

Open Evening on June 5th – U18/Reserve & First Team: 2025/26 Season