From Dreaming to Managing: Joe Armas' Football Journey

Joe Armas, now 27, has made an incredible leap from being a bricklayer to becoming a successful football manager. After realizing his dream of becoming a professional footballer was out of reach, Armas shifted his focus to managing teams.

A Unique Path to Success

At the young age of 17, Armas left his hometown in Ecuador and traveled to Spain in pursuit of his passion. While studying technical management and sports management, he even worked as a bricklayer to support himself financially.

Gaining Valuable Experience

During his time in Spain, Armas took every opportunity to learn from top football clubs, including Real Madrid, Ajax, Athletic Bilbao, and PSV. He soaked up valuable information and knowledge that would later contribute to his success as a manager.

Seizing Opportunities

Upon returning to Ecuador in 2021, Armas sent his CV to 300 clubs, offering to work for free just to get a chance. Eventually, he was given an opportunity with third-tier club Imbabura SC.

Rising to the Top

In his first season as manager, Armas guided Imbabura SC to promotion. In the following season, his team reached the quarter-finals of the Copa Ecuador, defeating Liga de Quito, one of Ecuador's biggest clubs, along the way.

A Fairytale Ending

This season, Armas achieved another milestone by leading his team to promotion to the Ecuadorian top flight. Overwhelmed with emotion, he expressed his gratitude to his players and the entire team for their hard work and dedication.

A Young Manager to Watch

With his remarkable journey and early success, Joe Armas has already made a name for himself as a promising young manager to watch in the world of football.