Altrincham FC Women are undertaking a progressive restructure ahead of the 2026/27 season, designed to modernise the club’s football operations and align with the evolving demands of the women’s game.

From June 2026, the club will move away from the traditional ‘manager’ model and introduce a specialist-led structure centred around clearly defined roles. The title ‘Head Coach’ will replace ‘Manager’, reflecting a collaborative approach now widely adopted across elite women’s football.

Across leading leagues including the WSL, NWSL, Frauen-Bundesliga, D1 Féminine, and Liga F, football operations are increasingly led by specialist staff rather than a single individual overseeing all aspects of the programme. Historically, the manager role combined coaching, recruitment, player development, squad management, and long-term strategy. While successful in previous eras, the modern game now demands a more specialised and collaborative structure to improve efficiency, accountability, and player development.

As part of the transition, the club would like to thank first team coach Harry Dare, who departs to return home to Bournemouth. Harry joined Altrincham ahead of last season and played an important role in the team’s historic Adobe Women’s FA Cup run to the third round, alongside a fifth-place finish in the North West Women’s Regional League. The club thanks Harry for his commitment and contribution during his time with the Robins.

The new structure will be led by Duncan Jones as Head of Women’s Football. Duncan will oversee the long-term vision, philosophy, and strategic direction of the women’s section, while also managing recruitment, squad planning, departmental operations, and alignment between the First Team and Elite U18 pathway.

Daryll Abrahams will take on the dual role of Head of Coaching and First Team Head Coach. Recognised as a highly experienced coach with a strong background in teaching and coach development, Daryll will lead the club’s playing philosophy, training programme, and matchday performance, while also mentoring and developing coaches throughout the women’s and junior pathway. His role will focus on creating a consistent coaching methodology and high-performance environment across all levels of the club.

Supporting the First Team will be Anisa Ali as First Team Coach. Working closely with the Head Coach, Anisa will help deliver training sessions, support player development, contribute to tactical and match analysis, and maintain high standards across the performance environment.

At youth level, Spencer O’Connor will continue as Elite U18 Head Coach, leading the club’s elite development pathway and preparing players for progression into senior football. Supporting him will be Timur Zakirov as Elite U18 Coach, assisting with training delivery, player development, and implementation of the club’s coaching philosophy.

This restructure represents a significant step forward for Altrincham FC Women. By introducing a collaborative, specialist-led model, the club aims to strengthen player development, raise coaching standards, improve accountability, and create a clear pathway from youth to senior football.

Ultimately, the changes position Altrincham FC Women to continue developing both players and staff while aligning with modern best practice across the women’s game.