Edmond Klaus, the new Technical Director of the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA), has given an interview to the organisation's press service.

Offsideplus.az presents the highlights from the interview:

– Could you tell us about your career?

– I am 56 years old and have been involved in football for over 35 years. I have worked in various roles at clubs such as Ajax, Ajax Cape Town, and Harlem. I have also served as an assistant coach for the national teams of China and the Netherlands, and collaborated with MLS academies as a consultant for the 'Double Pass' company in the USA. I studied at the Amsterdam Sports University. My 23 years at Ajax as a player and staff member have been the foundation of my professional development. I am pleased to share the experience I have gained with Azerbaijani football.

– What goals and objectives have been set for you by AFFA?

– I consider it a great honour to be appointed to this position and I thank the management. Our main goal over the next three years is to ensure the sustainable development of Azerbaijani football and to improve the results of the youth national teams. Our priorities include the promotion of the boys' youth national teams to UEFA's A League, the development of individual training programmes, the establishment of a unified playing philosophy, and the enhancement of academies.

– Where should the development of football in a country begin?

– Everything starts with defining clear values, a mission, and a football philosophy. This philosophy encompasses not only tactics but also how players are trained and the creation of a development environment. The development of football is not just the responsibility of AFFA, but of the entire country. Therefore, we will work closely with clubs and academies.

– What methods will you use to achieve your goals?

– I will employ the FAD methodology, which is based on eight key success factors that have proven effective. The first step is to analyse the current situation, further professionalise the work of departments, and visit academies. At the same time, we must develop grassroots and school football to ensure that no talented player goes unnoticed.

– What will be your main priority in the first weeks?

– Our main priority will be the proper selection of head coaches and technical staff for the youth national teams. To this end, vacancies have already been announced. I believe that together we can lead Azerbaijani football to a brighter future.