The exclusive courses to be delivered by Cass will be the only business education courses endorsed and supported by The FA.

The partnership will deliver a complete portfolio of business education courses with the aim of producing the world’s first Executive MBA for the football industry.

A programme of courses is already planned for football executives, managers and senior coaches from all over the world. It will focus on the crucial business issues confronting the industry and look at how improved business skills will enhance the profitability of the club or association with which they are involved.

Core areas to be covered in the business education programme will include risk management, marketing, corporate governance and business strategy.

The standard components of an MBA programme, such as the principles of accounting, business economics and corporate finance, will also be included.

The programme will also cover legislation, regulation, football as a global business, real estate investment and football in the community.