ABOUT SANTI UNITED

Santi United was founded with a clear and focused vision: to create a professional, structured, and safe football development platform that supports players both on and off the pitch.

The concept behind Santi United is built on the belief that sustainable football development requires more than training alone. It requires discipline, structure, education, guidance, and exposure to international environments. Santi United was created to bridge the gap between local football structures and international opportunities by delivering high-quality programs in Dubai, Europe, and selected international markets.

Every Santi United program is designed with long-term development in mind, prioritizing player wellbeing, professionalism, and personal growth alongside football performance.

Founders & Leadership

Santino — Founder, Operating Manager & Head Coach

Santino is the founder of Santi United and serves as Operating Manager and Head Coach. He is responsible for the football vision, methodology, and daily execution of all football-related activities.

His responsibilities include:

•  Defining and implementing the Santi United football methodology
• Planning and delivering training sessions and camps
• Player development and individual performance evaluation
• Tactical preparation and match organization
• Leading and supervising assistant coaches
• Ensuring consistency and quality across all football programs

Santino brings decades of experience as a professional football coach and former player, developed within elite football environments. His background provides a deep understanding of high-level training standards, discipline, and player development pathways.

His coaching philosophy focuses on technical quality, tactical intelligence, discipline, and professionalism — preparing players for the demands of international football environments.

Marija — Founder & General Manager

Marija is the founder and General Manager of Santi United. She is responsible for the overall structure, organization, and operational integrity of the academy.

Her responsibilities include:

•  Strategic planning and program structure
• Operational management and logistics
• Safeguarding standards and supervision frameworks
• Communication with players, families, clubs, and partners
• Administrative coordination and compliance oversight
• International program coordination

With a strong background as an entrepreneur and businesswoman, Marija ensures that Santi United operates with professionalism, transparency, and accountability. Her focus is on creating a stable, well-organized environment where player welfare, discipline, and long-term development are always prioritized.

Supporting Team & Administrative Structure

To ensure professional execution, legal compliance, and operational reliability, Santi United works in close collaboration with **Samari Services & Consultancy**.

Samari Services & Consultancy is responsible for the **full administrative and regulatory management** of Santi United’s operations. They act as the official administrative and advisory partner, handling all non-football-related processes and operating as an intermediary between Santi United and relevant government bodies and institutions.

Their responsibilities include:

•  Visa and residency processing
• Licensing and regulatory compliance
• Government liaison and official communications
• Coordination with authorities and institutions
• Administrative approvals and documentation
• Advisory support for international operations

This structure allows Santi United’s football leadership to focus fully on player development, while all administrative, legal, and regulatory matters are managed professionally and transparently.

Coaching & Operational Support Team

Santi United operates with a dedicated support structure to maintain quality, safety, and consistency across all programs.

Assistant Coaches:

Two assistant coaches support international camps and Dubai-based programs. They assist with training delivery, supervision, player monitoring, and performance support during Step 1 and Step 2 programs.

Operational Coordination:

Scheduling, accommodation coordination, transportation, and on-ground logistics are centrally managed to ensure smooth execution of all activities.

This team-based structure ensures continuity and high standards across all locations and programs.

Our Philosophy & Core Principles

Santi United is guided by the following core principles:

• Professional Structure: Clear roles, accountability, and planning
• Football Excellence: Focus on long-term player development
• Discipline & Responsibility:  On and off the pitch
• Safety & Supervision: Structured safeguarding procedures
• International Perspective: Exposure to global football environments

Each program is designed to develop players not only as athletes, but also as responsible individuals prepared for international settings.

Commitment to Players, Families & Clubs

Santi United is committed to transparency, responsibility, and clear communication with players, families, and partner organizations.

The leadership team remains actively involved in all programs to ensure quality control, safeguarding, and alignment with the values that define Santi United. Our commitment is to provide a professional, safe, and structured environment where players can develop with confidence and clarity.