Inspiring Generation of Athletes
InterContinental Football Academy, a name synonymous with the spirit of youth and the passion of soccer, stands as a beacon for aspiring athletes. Founded with a vision to nurture talent and foster sportsmanship, we are more than just a sports academy; we shape dreams and forge futures. At InterContinental Football Academy, our coaching staff is our pride. Each coach brings experience and a deep love for the game. They are not just trainers; they are mentors who are committed to the personal and athletic growth of every student.
Our Head Coach Jean Marie Dongou
Jean Marie Dongou is exceptional to say the least, he was born 29 years ago in Cameroon, in a small town called Mbanga. When he was 10 years old, he was chosen to play in the Samuel Etó Academy from a group of 300 children dreaming, he was one of the few of the lucky ones who were chosen ones. He went on to Barcelona to play an international competition and there he was selected as the best Scorer. Its where his journey at the prestigious academy of Barça - La Masià began.
He played with the best teams and well-known footballers: Messi, Neymar, Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets, Puyol, and the opportunity to train with the most amazing and famous coaches, like Guardiola and Tito Vilanova.
After leaving Barça, he joined some well-known football teams of the Spanish league: Zaragoza, Nástic de Tarragona, Lugo. He also played in Greece, Finland and lastly Japan, where he decided to end his career as a footballer, due to a lot of injuries. Now as a coach, he is inspiring young players and it’s time to develop young amazing talent.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2008 - 2016 FC BARCELONA
He began his footballing career at FC Barcelona's esteemed La Masia academy, where he developed from the age of 13. He progressed through the various youth levels and competed in numerous important tournaments, which honed his tactical and technical skills. He was part of the “Juvenil A” team that won the Division of Honor championship and became the leading scorer of the academy in my final years. Subsequently, he moved up to FC Barcelona "B", making a significant impact and debuting with the first team in 2013.
2016 - 2017 REAL ZARAGOZA
After his time in FC Barcelona, he joined Real Zaragoza, where He played for a full season, overcoming challenges and contributing to the team with the experience and skills He had
acquired during his training.
2017 - 2018 GIMNÀSTIC DE TARRAGONA
He continued his career at Gimnàstic de Tarragona, where he strengthened his competitive skills and encountered new growth opportunities.
2018 - 2019 CD LUGO
He signed with CDLugo and was later loaned to Lleida Esportiu, where he was able to make a significant contribution during the loan period.
2020 - 2021 FC HONKA ESPOO
In Finland with FC Honka, he broadened his international experience and successfully adapted to a new style of play and culture.
2022 ZAMORA CF & ANAGENNISI KARDITSA
He contributed his experience to THESE
CLUBS, and although his time was brief, each experience added to his personal and professional growth
2023 FC OSAKA
His most recent experience in Japan with FC Osaka added new perspectives and challenges that prepared him for the next steps in his career.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
DEGREE IN SPORTS COACHING FOR FOOTBALL
- Successfully completed all the cycles, obtaining foundational training in key
aspects of sports coaching, first aid, as well as the organization and legislation of sports. - Acquired essential technical and tactical knowledge for the development of
players in grassroots football. - Completed the advanced training specializing in team management, football teaching and training methodology, and physical preparation.
- Complete understanding of tactics and game systems, as well as individual
and collective technique.
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
•Tactical Analysis: Advanced ability to analyze the game and tactical execution, both in real-time during matches and in strategic planning prior to games.
•Effective Communication: Strong ability to clearly communicate complex game strategies to players, enabling efficient execution on the field.
•Leadership: Demonstrated experience in leadership roles within teams, fostering an environment of respect, dedication, and collaboration.
•Player Mentorship: Ability to guide the development of young footballers, providing constructive feedback and personalized support.
•Cultural Adaptability: Extensive international experience that allows me to connect and work effectively with players from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
•Physical and Psychological Preparation: Solid understanding of the physical and mental preparation necessary for elite performance in football.
•Technical Education: Specialized training as a Football Coaching Technician, with theoretical and practical knowledge in team management and leadership.
•Initiative and Problem-Solving: Ability to quickly identify challenges and act proactively to resolve them.
•Pedagogical Skills: Aptitude for teaching and training others,using methods that facilitate learning and continuous improvement.
•Discipline and Self-Demand: Strictself-discipline and a high level of self-demand that I also instill in the teamsI lead.
ACHIEVEMENTS
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Champion of the “Juvenil Division de Honor” with FC Barcelona Juvenil "A" in 2011.
Winner of the Champions Cup with FC Barcelona Juvenil "A" in 2011.
Winner of the Juvenil Copa del Rey with FC Barcelona Juvenil "A" in 2011.
FIRST DIVISION DEBUT
INDIVIDUAL DISTINCTIONS
Selected as the Best African Player of the Liga
Adelante in 2014.