Former APR FC Player Blaise Itangishaka Remains in Spain After Coaching Training Trip to Madrid

Former Rwandan footballer Blaise Itangishaka has reportedly remained in Spain after failing to return to Rwanda with a delegation of coaches who had travelled to Madrid for a football training and development program.

According to journalist Jean Luc from BB Kigali FM, Itangishaka did not return with the rest of the group when their training program concluded. While other participants returned to Kigali over the weekend, Itangishaka stayed behind in Spain for reasons that have not yet been officially clarified by authorities or football officials.

The group had traveled to Madrid for a coaching education program aimed at improving football development skills, with support from sports institutions and international partners. The program was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen coaching standards and player development in Rwanda through international exposure and training opportunities.

Blaise Itangishaka is a former player who featured for top Rwandan clubs including APR FC and AS Kigali FC. He also developed his early football background at the Aspire Academy system linked to Barcelona, one of the well-known football development structures in Africa and Europe.

After a playing career affected by injuries, Itangishaka reportedly shifted toward coaching, beginning his professional coaching pathway approximately two years ago. His move into coaching was seen as part of a transition from active football to football development and training roles.

Officials from the visiting delegation are said to have informed both Spanish football authorities and Rwanda’s Ministry of Sports about the situation. However, there has been no official statement explaining why Itangishaka remained in Spain or whether he intends to continue his coaching education or pursue opportunities in Europe.

The training program was reportedly conducted in collaboration with Spanish football institutions, including coaching environments linked to clubs such as Atletico Madrid, which are known for hosting technical development and coaching education sessions for international participants.

Football development programs in Europe often attract coaches from Africa who seek advanced certification, exposure to elite training methods, and opportunities to build international careers. Organizations such as UEFA regularly support structured coaching education pathways across Spain and other European countries.