Message from David Sousa
“Welcome to Al Masar Football Academy! I want to take a moment to share just how much you’re about to learn and develop here, both on and off the field.
When I first joined the academy, I quickly realized that this is more than just a place to train — it’s a place where you’ll be challenged, pushed, and supported in ways that will help you grow as a player and as a person. At Al Masar, you’ll get the chance to improve your technical skills, master new tactics, and refine your physical abilities. But beyond that, you’ll learn what it means to be part of a team, to push through tough times, and to stay disciplined, focused, and resilient.
You will receive world-class coaching from a team that is committed to helping you reach your full potential. Every training session, match, and piece of feedback is designed to make you better — not just in football, but in life. You’ll learn how to think critically on the pitch, how to communicate effectively, and how to be a leader in every sense of the word.
At Al Masar FA, we believe in creating well-rounded athletes who can thrive at the highest levels of competition. So, whether you’re aiming to play professionally or simply want to be the best version of yourself, this academy will push you toward achieving your goals.
The journey ahead will be challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. The lessons you learn here will stay with you for a lifetime, and you’ll look back at this time as the foundation for all your future successes.
I’m excited for what’s to come, and I can’t wait to see how far you’ll go. Welcome to Al Masar, and get ready to take your game to the next level!”
INTRODUCTION
Born in Portugal, David Sousa, the Technical Director of Al Masar FA, has always been driven by a deep passion for football and a relentless desire to improve players through effective training. His journey in the world of football began at a young age, and over the years, he has cultivated a profound understanding of the game, both on and off the field. With extensive experience in coaching and player development, David has dedicated himself to not only mastering the technical aspects of football but also to creating a holistic training methodology that enhances performance at every level.
As a football coach and director, David believes in the importance of a well-rounded approach that combines tactical awareness, technical skills, and mental fortitude. His methodology is designed to push players to their limits while fostering an environment of growth and self-improvement. Through this approach, he aims to increase the value of each player, both individually and as part of a team. David’s vision is to equip the next generation of footballers with the skills, mindset, and work ethic needed to excel, preparing them for the challenges of competitive football at the highest levels.
David’s long-term commitment to studying and analyzing the game has enabled him to stay ahead of emerging trends in football training, ensuring that his players are always ready for the future. His focus is on continuous development, ensuring that every session contributes to the overall growth of his players and the continued success of Al Masar FA.
Professional Experience
- Football Youth Coordinator
- Sport Lisboa e Benfica (Lisbon, PT)
- Sporting Clube Portugal – EAS (Lisbon, PT)
- Superball Football Academy (Lisbon, PT)
- Clube Oriental de Lisboa (Lisbon, PT)
- Football Coaching Education Director
- Your Football Academy (Lisbon, PT)
- Sapienta Sports – Football Academy (Setúbal, PT)
- In Time Sports | Think Football (Lisbon, PT)
- Football Coach/Analyst/Scout
- Al-Ittifaq FC (Dubai, UAE)
- Vitória FC (Setúbal, PT)
- Operário FC Lisboa (Lisbon, PT)
- GD Pinhalnovense (Setúbal, PT)
- UDR Algés (Lisbon, PT)
- Al Sharjah FC (Sharjah, UAE)
- SC Sacavenense (Lisbon, PT)
- Al Nasr SC (Dubai, UAE)
- Sporting Clube da Covilhã (Covilhã, PT)
- EUROFUT – Sports Promoter (Lisbon, PT)
Sports (Football) Education
- Post Graduation Football Technical Director
- European University (Lisbon, PT)
- Masters in High Performance Training
- Faculty of Human Kinectics, U. Lisbon (Lisbon, PT)
- Degree in Sports Science
- University of Beira Interior (Covilhã)
- Team Management Professional Course
- Superior Institute of Applied Psychology (Lisbon, PT)
- Uefa Advance Licence + Elite Youth
- UEFA Academy (FPF)
- Academy Director Course; Team Manager Course
- Portugal Football School (FPF)
- Grassroots 4v4; 7v7; 9v9; 11v11 Coaching License
- U.S. Soccer (USA)
- The England FA Running a Club Course; The FA Level 1 in Talent Identification
- England Football Association
- Elite Scouting in Football Course
- QUEST (Lisbon, PT)
- Football: More Than a Game Course
- The University of Edinburgh (Scotland, UK)