Bassong, 39, follows in the footsteps of fellow Cameroonian greats Patrick Mboma, Achille Webo, Aurlien Chedjou, Alexandre Song, and Stphane Mbia, who have all previously taken part in the programme.
The initiative, organised by UEFA in collaboration with leading European universities, aims to help former players transition from the pitch to positions of influence off it. Participants study key areas such as governance, sports law, finance, media relations and event management, while also undertaking practical projects within clubs and federations.
From Premier League Pitches to the ClassroomBorn in Paris to Cameroonian parents, Bassong enjoyed a solid career across top European leagues. A product of Clairefontaine, he began his professional journey at Metz before moving to Newcastle United in 2008, where his performances earned him the clubs Player of the Year award in his debut season.
He later joined Tottenham Hotspur, making over 60 appearances, and featured for Norwich City and Watford before winding down his career with brief spells abroad.
At international level, Bassong represented Cameroon at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, forming part of a golden generation that included Samuel Etoo and Rigobert Song.
A New Generation of African Football LeadersThe UEFA MIP programme has increasingly attracted African ex-professionals seeking to shape the continents football structures. For Bassong, joining that network reflects a broader trend one where former players are taking more active roles in administration, coaching, and policy.
CAF and several national federations have recently encouraged ex-internationals to pursue academic and managerial training to improve governance and modernise football operations.
Bassongs inclusion in the 20252027 cohort highlights that momentum. It offers him a pathway into strategic roles potentially within CAF, FIFA, or national football bodies once the programme concludes.
As Bassong prepares to swap the training pitch for the lecture hall, his next challenge begins not with tackles or headers, but with policies, planning and the push to make football better run, better governed, and more inclusive.
About the UEFA Master for International Players MIPDuration: 2 years 20252027
Purpose: To equip former professional footballers with knowledge and skills in football administration, management, and governance.
Curriculum: Covers sports law, finance, governance, media relations, leadership, and event management.
Format: Combines academic coursework with practical projects and placements within clubs, federations, or football institutions.
Notable Alumni: Patrick Mboma, Achille Webo, Alexandre Song, Stphane Mbia, Aurlien Chedjou.