Nigeria and Al Ittihad defender Ashleigh Plumptre has taken a major step towards life beyond the pitch after successfully completing her UEFA B coaching diploma, confirming the achievement with a post via social media.
The 27-year-old posted a photo of her certificate on her Instagram story, expressing appreciation to those who supported her throughout the course. “Grateful to have my UEFA B Coaching License completed,” she wrote.
The certificate, signed by Lucy Pearson, Director of FA Education, officially affirms that Plumptre earned her UEFA B Diploma on March 18, 2025. “Thank you to all of those who facilitated me with my sessions both in the UK and at Al Ittihad club,” she added.
Plumptre’s newly earned qualification allows her to coach at an elite youth and semi-professional level, and marks the beginning of a new chapter as she contemplates a future in football management.
Currently plying her trade as a centre-back for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, Plumptre has impressed in her second season with the club, making 13 league appearances, starting 11 of them, and playing a total of 993 minutes, contributing three goals and four assists.
Since switching international allegiance from England to Nigeria in 2022, Plumptre has become a vital figure in the Super Falcons setup, representing the nine-time African champions at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Although she was not part of the squad for the scheduled friendly matches against Cameroon, her absence was reportedly due to her recent long-term injury.