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The 11 v 11 Football Channel - Football's Unlimited Home!

The 11 v 11 Football Channel - Football's Unlimited Home!

The 11 v 11 Football Channel - Football's Unlimited Home!

The 11 v 11 Football Channel - Football's Unlimited Home!

The 11 v 11 Football Channel - Football's Unlimited Home!

The 11 v 11 Football Channel - Football's Unlimited Home!

Football Positions, Rules, Formations, Player Moves, Strategies and Tactics

The Field of Play

Understanding The Football Pitch Markings and Dimensions

 Football pitches come in a variety of dimensions for different levels and ages. According to the global governing body FIFA, an international-size football field measures between 100-130 yards (90-120 m) long (in length) by 50-100 yards (45-90 m) wide in width. Although fields can vary within these ranges, the most common dimensions used in professional matches are:

Length = 110 yards (100.58 m) to 120 yards (109.73m) long (in length)

Width =  70 yards (64.01 m) to 80 yards (73.15m) wide (in width)

Penalty spots marked = 12 yards (10.97m) from the center of each goal

Penalty boxes = 18 yards (16.46m) by 44 yards (40.23m)

Goal Areas (Goalie Box) = 6 yards (5.49m) by 20 yards (18.29m)

Goal Posts = 24 yards (7.32 m) apart and 8 feet (2.44 m) tall and high

Corner Arc = 1 yard in diameter and 90 degrees intersection between Sidelines (Touch lines) and Endline  

Corner Flag Posts = 5 feet


The standardized lengths and widths are vital for fairness across different matches and ensure enough space for 11 players per team. Wider fields allow more creative playmaking while narrower pitches push more congestion, crosses and chance creation. The dimensions continue providing strategic diversity across football. 


Football field sizes can still fluctuate both within and beyond the official length/width ranges. Several reasons account for this variation:


1. House Styles


Certain clubs traditionally play on unique field dimensions that almost act like a 12th man for home games, assisting their accustomed style of play. For example, Real Madrid's narrower Bernabeu pitch enabled quick combinations while Liverpool took advantage of Anfield's larger width during their era of dominance. 


2.  Grandfathered Fields


In some lower-division leagues, teams play on fields built decades ago that no longer meet updated regulations. However, constructing a new stadium is too expensive. These teams often maintain odd-sized grandfathered pitches. 


3. Multi-Use Venues


During certain tournaments, football is played in large multipurpose stadiums built to accommodate sports with entirely different field requirements like football and rugby. Although not ideal. football still functions in these venues.  


Information Source: Football Sociation (https://www.evassociation.org/how-big-is-a-soccer-field/)


Information Source: Forza Goal (https://www.forzagoal.co.uk/buyers-guides/football-pitch-size-guide?srsltid=AfmBOopV4Ndce6xjOP42lj65lDSdY6eQR5C4gdCrzr2-uVC3pgyAKECm)


Image Source:  https://www.dummies.com/article/home-auto-hobbies/sports-recreation/soccer/soccer-for-dummies-cheat-sheet-208057/



The Pitch Surrounding Area

 The pitch area includes the field of play and the extended grassed area around the field. It extends up to the demarcation of the spectator viewing areas or other boundary. 


 The pitch area then incorporates a further area beyond the grassed area and advertising boards to allow for the positioning of security staff and photographers, amongst others. The pitch area should ideally be unobstructed by any permanent installations, walkways, staircases or emergency exits from the stands so that free movement around the field of play is possible. All surfaces within the pitch area should be of a non-slip material. 


 

WARM-UP AREAS IN THE PITCH AREA


 The pitch area would normally contain two warm-up areas. The recommended location for the warm-up area is behind each goal (and any installed perimeter boards and/or photographers’ positions). Where this is not feasible and warmup areas are provided next to the team benches, separation should be indicated from the relevant assistant referee position (for example by way of dotted lines). 


 When individual warm-up areas are behind each goal, the recommended dimension for each warm-up area is 3m x 30m for six players and two officials in each area. If it is more practical to place the warm-up area behind the assistant referee, the dimensions would depend on the stadium set-up. 


 It is recommended that the warm-up area surface be the same as that of the field of play. 


 

PITCH PERIMETER

 

The pitch perimeter is the boundary between the playing or competition area and the spectator viewing areas.


 The pitch area must be protected against intrusion by unauthorized persons. Where possible, this should be achieved by deploying an appropriate number of stewards and security personnel. However, in some local contexts, the relevant local authorities may require a fence or screen to be put in place. Where a physical barrier is used, spectator sightlines should be taken into consideration. The use of such barriers must not present a risk or danger to spectators or players, and load-bearing barriers should be used. In any case, barbed or razor wire must not be used. 


 It is recommended that emergency access points/gates be incorporated into the pitch perimeter. This may be in the form of crossing points (bridges) if a moat is deployed. Where there are suitable alternative exit routes for spectators, exceptions to the above can be considered, subject to the approval of the local safety authority. Any fence or barrier must not be insurmountable and, as such, alternative exits should be provided. One way to achieve this is by having additional access points to the pitch area. 


 Stewards monitor the pitch perimeter. 


 All emergency gates must be able to be opened quickly and easily towards the field of play. They should be positioned directly in line with the radial gangways in the respective spectator areas. The emergency evacuation routes to the field of play must not be obstructed by installed perimeter boards or any other objects. Perimeter boards must be designed and installed in such a way as to avoid creating an obstacle to any spectators entering the field of play for emergency reasons. For example, they may be collapsible or have functioning emergency access points aligned to the evacuation routes from the spectator areas. 


 Each emergency exit gate should be at least as wide as the stairway or gangway it serves. They should be a different color from their surroundings and be easily identifiable. When spectators are in the stadium, all emergency exits shall be staffed at all times and not secured by locks. 


 If there is a remote-controlled opening mechanism on the gates, each gate must also have a manual override facility so that it can be opened by hand in case of an emergency.


 

MAINTENANCE ACCESS 


 Consideration should also be given to the movement and management of pitch maintenance equipment as well as a logistical entry point in case of preparing for concerts or other events other than football. 


 Adequate access in a corner or in an alternative suitable location of the stadium should be able to cater for the passage of pitch renovating or construction equipment and allow it to move freely. The pitch maintenance teams should also be accommodated in an area from which they can easily access the pitch area at half-time. 


 Access to the pitch area will also be required for other staff, including stewards and security personnel, broadcast staff and facilities staff. For this purpose, a minimum of two to three meters of circulation space should be provided. In addition, if any fixed security or camera positions will be located in this area, these should not impact or interfere with spectator sightlines. 


 

ADVERTISING BOARDS



 The pitch area is the most visible (and valuable) asset during live broadcasts, potentially seen by millions of spectators watching matches at home. 


 Perimeter advertising around the field of play is a common method of promoting sponsors and their brands or products. Advertising boards around the pitch should not impact the sightlines of spectators sitting in any part of the seating bowl. 


 As well as the impact of spectator sightlines, player safety also needs to considered when positioning advertising boards. 


 LED advertising boards are found on the edge of the grassed area.


 Some tournaments have their own specific requirements for the positioning of advertising boards, including the FIFA World Cup finals. 


 Pitch sprinklers should not be planned or positioned behind any advertising boards. The advertising boards must not prevent the movement of spectators onto the field of play in case of emergency evacuation.  


 There are primarily two types of advertising boards used around the pitch: static and electronic. 


 Static advertising boards carry the same image or corporate brand for the duration of the match. 


 Advances in digital broadcasting technology and augmented reality now allow LED advertising hoardings to be virtually modified by broadcasters, presenting the adverts in a different language in different regions. The content of the LED boards in the stadium appears the same but can be changed virtually for the live broadcast. 


 The height of the LED boards should be considered when selecting the system that will be used. The overall height of the boards and the distance from the first row of seats needs to be checked to ensure that sightlines to the field of play are not blocked. The standard size of the active screen is around 0.9m, although the overall height of the LED unit is likely to be higher at around 1.0m. 


 Electronic LED boards require power and data. Redundant power supply should be provided to ensure that there is no failure of the boards during matches. For environmental reasons, a grid power supply is highly recommended. 


Source Information: https://publications.fifa.com/de/football-stadiums-guidelines/technical-guideline/stadium-guidelines/pitch-dimensions-and-surrounding-areas/



Under 7/8 Division League

The English FA recommends that children aged 7 and 8 years old should play a modified 5-a-side format of the senior game with 5 players on each team at any one time. 

The football pitches used should be 40 yards (36.58m) long (in length) and 30 yards (27.43m) wide (in width). A size 3 football should be used to play any regulated under 7 or 8 games. The goal posts should be standing 12 feet (3.66m) wide (in width) and 6 feet (1.83m) high (in length). The penalty box should be 9 yards (8.23m) long (as measured from the goal line) and 16 yards (14.63m) wide. The penalty spot should be 7 yards (6.40m) from the center of the goal and a runoff area that should be 3 yards (2.74m) wide around the field's edge.


Information Source: Forza Goal (https://www.forzagoal.co.uk/buyers-guides/football-pitch-size-guide?srsltid=AfmBOopV4Ndce6xjOP42lj65lDSdY6eQR5C4gdCrzr2-uVC3pgyAKECm)

Under 9/10 Division League

Players participating in the Under 9 and 10 matches should use a football pitch that is 60 yards (54.87m) long (in length) and 40 yards (36.57m) wide (in width) and should compete in 7-a-side (7 v 7) matches. A size 3 ball should be used. The goal posts should be 12 feet (3.66m) wide and 6 feet (1.83m) high (in length).

The penalty box should be 18 yards (16.46m) wide (in width) across the pitch and 10 yards (9.14m) long (in length) as measured from the goal line. The penalty spot is marked out 8 yards (7.32m) from the center of the goals.


Information Source: Forza Goal (https://www.forzagoal.co.uk/buyers-guides/football-pitch-size-guide?srsltid=AfmBOopV4Ndce6xjOP42lj65lDSdY6eQR5C4gdCrzr2-uVC3pgyAKECm)

Under 11/12 Division League

Matches in Under 11/12 leagues should be played with a 9-a-side (9 v 9) format. The football pitch should be 80 yards (73.15m) long (in length) and 50 yards (45.72m) wide (in width). A size 4 ball should be used. The goal posts should be 16 feet (4.88m) wide (in width) and 7 feet (2.13m) high (in length).

The penalty area should be 32 yards (29.26m) long in (length) and 13 yards (11.89m) wide (in width). The penalty spot is marked at a distance of 9 yards (8.23m) from the center of each goal. The goal area should be represented by a line that runs parallel to, and 4 yards (3.66m) out from the goal line. The goal area should be 14 yards (12.80m) wide.


Information Source: Forza Goal (https://www.forzagoal.co.uk/buyers-guides/football-pitch-size-guide?srsltid=AfmBOopV4Ndce6xjOP42lj65lDSdY6eQR5C4gdCrzr2-uVC3pgyAKECm)

Under 13/14 Division League

Players in Under 13/14 leagues should play with an 11-a-side (11 v 11) player format. The football pitch should be 90 yards (82.30m) long (in length) and 55 yards (50.29m) wide (in width). A size 4 ball should be used. The goal posts should be 21 feet (6.40m) wide (in width) and 7 feet (2.13m) high (in length).

The penalty box should be marked out so that it is 14 yards (12.80m) long (in length) by 35 yards (32.00m) wide (in width) size. The penalty spot should be 10 yards (9.14m) from the center of each goal. The goal area should be 5 yards (4.57m) long (in length) by 16 yards (14.63m) wide (in width) size.


Information Source: Forza Goal (https://www.forzagoal.co.uk/buyers-guides/football-pitch-size-guide?srsltid=AfmBOopV4Ndce6xjOP42lj65lDSdY6eQR5C4gdCrzr2-uVC3pgyAKECm)

Under 15/16

Regulated matches for players under 15 and 16 should be slightly smaller than a typical senior football pitch with dimensions of 100 yards (91.44m) long (in length) and 60 yards (54.86m) wide (in width).  The 11 v 11 games involving under 15 and 16 players should use size 5 balls and full-size 24 feet (7.32m) wide (in width) and 8 feet (2.44m) high (in length).

The penalty spot should be marked out 12 yards (10.97m) from the center of each goal. The penalty box should be 18 yards (16.46m) long (in length) and 44 yards (40.23m) wide (in width) size. The goal area ought to be 6 yards (5.49m) long (in length) by 20 yards (18.29m) wide (in width) size.


Information Source: Forza Goal (https://www.forzagoal.co.uk/buyers-guides/football-pitch-size-guide?srsltid=AfmBOopV4Ndce6xjOP42lj65lDSdY6eQR5C4gdCrzr2-uVC3pgyAKECm)

Under 17/18 & Seniors

Players 17 years of age and above should play football on a full size pitch. The ball should be a size 5. The goal areas should be 6 yards (5.49m) by 20 yards (18.29m). The penalty spots should be marked 12 yards (10.97m) from the center of each goal and the penalty boxes should measure 18 yards (16.46m) by 44 yards (40.23m) in size. The goals should be 24 feet (7.23m) by 8 feet (2.44m).

 Although football pitches can vary quite significantly in terms of their dimension, the FA currently recommends that senior, full size football pitches should ideally be 100 yards (110.58m) long (in length) and 70 yards (64.01m) wide (in width). 

Somewhat confusingly, top-level football pitches in the UK, are typically larger than FA recommendations, at approximately 115 yards (105.16m) long (in length) and 75 yards (68.58m) wide (in width). 

At the amateur level, the IFAB (International Football Association Board) states that senior football pitches can be 110 yards (105.16m) to 130 yards (118.87m) long (in length) and 50 yards (45.72m) up to 100 yards (91.44m) wide (in width).

 Whilst IFAB allow a large discrepancy in football pitch dimensions at the amateur level, for international football pitches the IFAB Laws of the Game documentation are more stringent and specify that pitches should be 110 yards (100.58m) to 120 yards (109.73m) long (in length) and 70 yards (64,01m) to 80 yards (73.15m) wide (in width).


Information Source: Forza Goal (https://www.forzagoal.co.uk/buyers-guides/football-pitch-size-guide?srsltid=AfmBOopV4Ndce6xjOP42lj65lDSdY6eQR5C4gdCrzr2-uVC3pgyAKECm)


Beach Soccer

The origins of beach football (futebol de areia) can be traced back to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The game was originally played by children and young adults with ragged balls and makeshift goals. Many of the first players took to the sand in order to protect their bare feet from the painful playing surfaces located around the city.

 

The first official beach soccer tournament was held in 1950. Since then, the game has grown in both popularity and stature. This short-form version of the sport is now televised, and more than 170 countries take part in an official capacity. 

 

Any typical, fine-sand beach should be suitable for beach football pitch. however, before play can commence, the area must be marked out with training cones or markers. It’s also important to clear the playing area of pebbles, seaweed, shells and anything that might cause cuts and trips. 


Remember: beach football is played in bare feet!


The standard field dimensions for beach soccer, as defined by FIFA, are 35 to 37 meters in length and 26 to 28 metres in width. The penalty box is anything within 9 metres of the goal, and it’s usually marked with a yellow flag. The halfway line is marked by two red flags on either side of the pitch.

The standard beach soccer goal is 2.2 meters from the sand to the underside of the crossbar and 5.5 meters wide.


The playing area is much smaller than that used in association football, so teams usually consist of just five players — including the keeper. Depending on the competition, each team is allowed three to five substitutes, but unlimited substitutions are permitted. Kick-ins are allowed as an alternative to throw-ins. There are no goal kicks in beach soccer. Instead, the keeper must throw the ball to a teammate. Goals can’t be scored this way, however.


Matches consist of three 12-minute periods, and the clock stops when the ball isn’t in play. If the teams are tied at the end of 36 minutes, there are three minutes of extra time, followed by a penalty shoot-out.

 

Penalties are awarded for fouls inside the box, and direct free-kicks are awarded for fouls. Like the standard game, there are red and yellow cards in beach soccer. However, two minutes after being sent off, the penalized team can bring on a replacement. A player can come on earlier if the opposition scores during these two minutes. 


Information Source: The Soccer Store (https://www.thesoccerstore.co.uk/blog/football-equipment/everything-know-beach-football/)




Futsal

  Futsal is a variant of soccer that is played on a smaller, indoor court with five players per team. It originated in Uruguay in the 1930s and quickly spread to other South American countries. Futsal is known for its fast pace and emphasis on technical skills, making it an exciting sport to watch and play. 


 A standard futsal court measures 38 meters in length and 20 meters in width. The goals are smaller than traditional soccer goals, measuring 3 meters in width and 2 meters in height. The court is typically made of a hard surface such as wood or artificial turf, allowing for a smooth playing experience. 


 The playing surface of a futsal court is designed for indoor play, whereas a soccer field is typically an outdoor grass or turf surface. 


 The smaller playing area of a futsal court requires players to develop precise ball control and quick decision-making skills. Furthermore, the hard surface allows for quick passing and high-speed play, making it an excellent way to improve fitness and agility. 


 Futsal follows many of the same rules as traditional soccer, with a few key differences. For example, there are no offside rules in futsal, and teams are only allowed a maximum of five fouls per half before conceding a 10-meter penalty kick to the opposing team. These rules make for a fast-paced and action-packed game. 


 With its smaller dimensions and hard playing surface, it offers a different and challenging experience compared to traditional outdoor soccer. Whether you're a seasoned futsal player or someone looking to try a new sport, a futsal court is the perfect place to embrace the thrill of the game. 


Information Source: Okler (https://www.sports-floor.com/news/what-is-a-futsal-court.html)


Image Source: Kickers Futsal (https://kickersfutsal.com/futsal-court-dimensions-and-size/) 



Street Football

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A General Layout of the Football Positions on the Field

Football Pitch Dimensions For English Premier League Clubs and All Divisions

Different Types of Playing Surfaces in Football

Natural Grass

 Natural grass fields offer excellent traction and a comfortable playing experience for football players. They can also provide a cooler surface compared to artificial turf. Various types of natural grass surfaces exist, tailored to specific regional temperatures and stadium drainage systems. Similar to a well-maintained backyard lawn, natural grass fields boasts a lush green appearance. Many companies have dedicated significant time and effort to developing grass varieties that can withstand the heavy wear and tear caused by football cleats.


Information Source: Arturf (https://arturf.com/football-grass/football-field-surfaces-types/)  

Artificial Grass or Turf (Astro Turf)

 Artificial grass has become the preferred choice for football fields due to its numerous benefits. This all-weather surface is designed to withstand heavy and repeated use, making it highly durable and long-lasting. The synthetic fibers used in artificial grass closely resemble short blades of grass, providing a cushioned and consistent playing surface. Unlike natural grass, football artificial turf requires minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for watering, mowing, and reseeding. It also offers excellent traction and stability, reducing the risk of injuries caused by shoe sticking or catching. Additionally, artificial grass allows for multipurpose use of stadiums, accommodating events beyond football. With its cost-effectiveness and reliable performance, artificial grass has revolutionized the football field industry, providing an ideal playing surface for athletes at all levels. 


Information Source: Arturf (https://arturf.com/football-grass/football-field-surfaces-types/)  


Hybrid Turf

 Hybrid turf combines the best features of natural grass and artificial grass, offering a durable playing surface. Hybrid natural surfaces incorporate a minimal percentage of synthetic fibers, which accounts for less than 5% of the overall grass coverage, giving it a “natural” label. Hybrid synthetic surfaces, on the other hand, consist of an artificial grass carpet with sand or organic infill. While hybrid turf provides enhanced durability and allows for increased playing hours compared to natural grass, it may not be the ideal choice for extensive usages, such as pitch hire and community activities. In such cases, a common artificial turf pitch would be a more cost-effective solution.


Information Source: Arturf (https://arturf.com/football-grass/football-field-surfaces-types/)  

Granulated surface (rubber, EPDM, polyurethane)

 Granulated surfaces are slip-resistant and have excellent drainage properties. They provide a nice spring for players  keeping everyone safe during competition.  These surfaces are made from rubber, EPDM, or polyurethane and offer a number of benefits. 


Information Source: Sports Venue Calculator (https://sportsvenuecalculator.com/knowledge/outdoor-sports-court/mini-soccer-pitches/)


 

Polyurethane floors are perhaps the most versatile of all indoor sports surfaces, with maximum slip resistance and outstanding wear resistance. These surfaces last a lifetime and provide optimal ball bounce for ball games.

Polyurethane is the most durable material for sports hall floors. PU floors last as long as timber floors but require no upkeep. Additionally, they are cheaper and available in various colours, although they lack a classic appearance.

PU floors are often compared to vinyl floors, but PU is a more expensive product with greater durability. It lasts longer and looks better after years of use, and it is also superior to timber in terms of maintenance.


Information Surfaces: TVS Sports Surfaces (https://www.tvs-sportssurfaces.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-sports-flooring/)


 


Acrylic Surface

 

Acrylic surface flooring presents a decorative and aesthetic view. It is preferred for indoor football fields. But it is very durable against weather conditions outdoor use is also very possible. Acrylic is very hygienic and antislip.

It is generally applied to asphalt or on concrete with a special adhesive. Acrylic is elastic and has a thickness of 2-3 mm. It is very beneficial for improving player performance and preventing sports injuries.

Acrylic fields are multi-purpose sports fields and are more proper for other types of sports like basketball or athletics. But it is also possible to play football in these fields.


Information Source: Ekipgrass Company (https://ekipgrass.net/what-are-the-types-of-football-field-surfaces/)

Beach Sand Surface

 Beach soccer (football) fosters technical skills, due to the irregularity of the 'playing field'. Playing barefoot stimulates the foot's sensitivity to contact with the football, forcing players to gain greater control over it without shoes and football cleats. 


 Likewise, the irregular terrain forces players to maintain greater concentration and attention to the soccer ball and to create alternative plays to overcome this natural barrier that the terrain offers. Aerial plays are one of the preferred techniques because players want to avoid the sand on the beach. The resistance of the arena itself helps with explosiveness and attack reactions. 


Information Source: On The Ball (https://www.ontheballglobal.com/blog/article/benefits_of_beach_soccer_for_a_player_who_takes_it_seriously)

The Sandlot

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Concrete and Tarmac

 Some of the greatest players learned their skills on the most unforgiving of surfaces such as tarmac or concrete. Particularly, since coming down to earth with a bump was the best reason in the world to learn the art of avoiding a clumsy tackle. However, concrete is less forgiving than boards, grass or a synthetic pitch such as AstroTurf. 


Nevertheless, the 'Streets' are where the Legends are born! Most lifelong football fans all have experiences of playing football with friends and family in their neighborhood streets or at schools at one point or another with hopes of maybe being discovered and becoming professionals.


Information Source: Safe Sport (https://www.safesport.co.uk/different-types-football-pitches-surfacing.html)


As the late great Johan Cruyff once said -  ‘Everything for me started in the street.  It was here I learned to think about how to turn a disadvantage into an advantage. You see that the kerb isn’t actually an obstacle, but you can turn it into a teammate for a one–two. So thanks to the kerb I was able to work on my technique. When the ball bounces off different surfaces at odd angles, you have to adjust in an instant.’  


 This early learning made Cruyff the unpredictable and ingenious player he was, turning, passing and shooting at odd angles because of his education on the concrete roads, and the peculiarity of it’s surfaces. 


It’s also about the hours! Hours and hours of practice on the streets that kids who attend training only twice a week simply don’t get, and these hours are necessary to forge the most creative and best players. 


Information Source: Medium.com (https://medium.com/@harrylawrie123/football-in-the-streets-903a1570b0c4)




Wooden Surfaces

 

Wooden surfaces, while offering a natural feel, may pose risks such as splinters, unevenness, and impact-related injuries. Proper maintenance and inspection are crucial to ensuring the safety of wooden playing fields.


Information Source: Sports Venue Technology (https://www.sportsvenue-technology.com/articles/playing-field-perspectives-wooden-vs-synthetic-surfaces-in-sports#:~:text=Wooden%20surfaces%2C%20while%20offering%20a,safety%20of%20wooden%20playing%20fields.)


Why Do Penalty Boxes Have Ds?

The Incredible Science of Football Pitches

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The Incredible Science of Football Pitches

The Incredible Science of Football Pitches

The Incredible Science of Football Pitches

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How Football Actually Works

The Incredible Science of Football Pitches

The Incredible Science of Football Pitches

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Managers, Head Coaches, Player Agents, Trainers, Kit-Men etc

Technical Area - The Benches (Dug-outs)

 The technical area, sometimes called a ‘bench’ or ‘dugout’, is an area outside the pitch that team officials, substitutes and substituted players occupy during a match, except in special circumstances (e.g. when the referee allows a physio or team doctor onto the pitch to provide medical treatment to a player or when substitutes are warming up). In many levels of football, these areas are not marked. Each team usually has its own separate technical area or ‘bench’/‘dugout’. 


 The technical area helps to reduce conflicts with match officials and the opposition. 


 

There are some specific requirements for the technical area:

  • it must be at least 1 m (1 yd) from the touchline
  • it should not extend more than 1 m (1 yd) on either side of any designated seating area
  • competition rules will state how many people are allowed in the technical area
  • only one person from each team is allowed to stand with the coach at any one time


Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/components-equipment/technical-area/

The Tunnel

 The players’ tunnel is the assembly point for the players and the referees before they enter the pitch area and usually provides access to the pitch area at the halfway line. Depending on local needs, a fireproof telescopic tunnel can be deployed which can be extended to provide protection from missiles and other physical contact and intimidation from the spectators immediately adjacent to the tunnel area. This type of tunnel can then be folded back once the players and match officials have entered or left the field of play so as not to interfere with spectator sightlines. 


 The players’ tunnel area leading to the field of play should ideally be large enough to line up 22 players, five match officials and any other officials. Consideration should also be given to holding larger tournaments or events where space will be required for additional personnel such as player or official escorts and flagbearers. 


 The minimum recommended dimensions to allow all required personnel to enter and leave the pitch area are 4.5 meters (width) and 2.4 meters (height). The length of the players’ tunnel area may vary between stadiums but should extend far enough to allow for the safe passage of all participants to the field of play.


  The minimum recommended dimensions to allow all required personnel to enter and leave the pitch area are 4.5 meters (width) and 2.4 meters (height). The length of the players’ tunnel area may vary between stadiums but should extend far enough to allow for the safe passage of all participants to the field of play.


 Within the tunnel area itself and on the route to the pitch area and dressing rooms, protective, non-slip flooring should be in place to ensure the safety of the players and match officials. 


 

Retractable Player Tunnels


A Retractable tunnel is a must-have for football and sports clubs that use modern sports grounds. They offer a safe and convenient way for athletes to enter and exit the playing field while creating a sense of anticipation and excitement for fans.  


Source Information: https://publications.fifa.com/de/football-stadiums-guidelines/technical-guideline/stadium-guidelines/pitch-dimensions-and-surrounding-areas/


Source Information: https://sportsgrounddevelopment.com/retractable-tunnels/



The Managers

 A football manager often acts as the public face of the team, interacting with media and representing the club in official matters. 


 Managers would hold an overarching role at a football club, overseeing transfer activity and scouting new players while also preparing for matches and coaching their own team. Sir Alex Ferguson was the greatest example of this during his time at United from 1986 until 2013, when he held an omnipotent position as the club's manager - controlling incomings to fit his style of play. Post-Ferguson, the head coach role has become increasingly popular, especially in the Premier League.


 A football manager is tasked with strategic planning, which includes long-term goals for the club, such as winning titles and building a strong squad for future seasons. He/she must consider the club’s financial health, youth development programs, and scouting networks. 


 Football managers handle numerous administrative duties. These tasks require excellent negotiation skills and a deep understanding of the football market. 


  One of the manager’s crucial roles is team selection. Managers decide the starting lineup and formation for each match, balancing player fitness, form, and tactical requirements. 


 Arsène Wenger: Arsène Wenger transformed Arsenal with his innovative approach to training, nutrition, and scouting, demonstrating the impact of a forward-thinking manager.


 Of course, in modern professional football, with expensive club squads, there are managers who also adopt responsibilities as head coaches. Coaches such as Jose Mourinho (Champions League winner with football club Inter Milan and La Liga winner with Real Madrid), Pep Guardiola (coach of Barcelona’s 2008-2012 dream team, Bayern Munich and now Man City) even Carlo Ancelotti (former head coach of AC Milan and now of Real Madrid) are coaches who love to get involved with the day to day training sessions. 


 Managers must possess strong leadership skills to inspire and guide the team. Effective leaders can motivate players and staff, fostering a positive and ambitious club culture. 


 Negotiation skills are crucial for managers, especially when dealing with player contracts and transfers. Successful negotiations can secure top talent and ensure financial stability. 


 Aspiring managers typically start with a background in football, either as players or in junior football coaching roles. Many pursue advanced coaching licenses and managerial courses to gain the necessary knowledge and skills. 


 Managers face immense pressure to deliver results, manage player egos, and maintain good relations with the board and fans. Their decisions are constantly scrutinized, making it a high-stress role. 


 Managers must maintain authority by fostering good relationships with players. Effective communication and empathy are key to managing these dynamics. 


Source Information: https://footballcoach365.com/football-manager-coach/


Source Information: https://www.givemesport.com/difference-between-head-coach-manager-explained/

Player Managers

 A Player-manager is a sports term used to described a manager of a team who is also registered to play for the team. In football, this situation usually arises when a manager leaves a team suddenly, and the club chairman or president has to make a quick decision to appoint someone new as a caretaker manager. The club chairman or president will usually either ask a coach to take temporary charge or turn to the club's most senior player. If this particular player gains good results for the team during his time in charge, he may be appointed full-time manager, which leaves him a player-manager. 


 Vincent Kompany's appointment as player-manager of Anderlecht in 2019 was evocative of the bygone days of the 1980s and 1990s when the player-manager could reign supreme. 


 Kenny Dalglish delivered three First Division titles, two FA Cups and a League Cup as player-manager of Liverpool (the Reds), including the club's first double in his first season at the helm. 


 Glenn Hoddle was appointed player-manager of Chelsea ahead of the 1993-94 campaign, guiding them to the final of the FA Cup that season only to lose heavily to Manchester United. 


 Ruud Gullit was 33 when he became Chelsea player-manager and got off to a flying start by winning the FA Cup in his first season, ending a 26-year trophy drought for the club in the process. 


  Gianluca Vialli (the former Juventus and Italy star) masterminded success in the FA Cup, the League Cup, the Cup Winners Cup, the Super Cup and the Charity Shield (now Community Shield) during his time as the Chelsea player-manager. 


  Graeme Souness (the former Liverpool star) won three Scottish league titles and four Scottish League Cups before leaving the club in 1991 to replace Dalglish at Anfield. 


 However, there are instances when a free agent is signed by a new team as a manager and offers his playing abilities. 


Source Information: https://en-academic.com/dic.nsf/enwiki/1342978


Source Information: https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/footballs-player-managers-dalglish-kompany--the-games-most-famous-examples/1x7gtntfm81ej1rke4va902py6


Source Information: https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/footballs-player-managers-dalglish-kompany--the-games-most-famous-examples/1x7gtntfm81ej1rke4va902py6

Head Coaches

 Jose Mourinho once said during his time at Manchester United that his role should be downgraded from manager to head coach. He expressed his frustration after he didn't get players that he wanted in the summer transfer window. 


 Head coaches focus on player development on the training pitch, while managers have a much more holistic role, including overseeing recruitment.


Head coaches instill their philosophy in preparation for matchdays. This takes away from the coaches' responsibilities in the transfer market, leaving the recruitment of new players down to the footballing structure behind the scenes - most notably the sporting director, who holds the most power. 


 Clubs value coaches who can work within a modern-footballing structure and accept the restraints that come with the 'head coach' job title. In fact, when Liverpool appointed Arne Slot as head coach, it was believed that the Dutchman's background working as part of Feyenoord's structure helped him stand out compared to other candidates such as Roberto De Zerbi and Thomas Tuchel, who have had well-documented disputes with board members above them. 


 Football coaches focus on tactical execution. They develop game plans for upcoming matches, analyze opponents' weaknesses, and ensure players understand their roles and responsibilities on the field. Coaches are the ones who translate the manager’s strategic vision into practical, actionable plans. 


 Coaches are deeply involved in the day-to-day training sessions. They design drills to improve players’ skills, fitness, and teamwork. Coaches must stay updated on the latest training techniques and sports science to maximize player performance. 


 Mike Phelan: As an assistant coach under Ferguson, Mike Phelan played a crucial role in Manchester United’s tactical preparation and training, contributing significantly to the team’s success.


 Zeljko Buvac: Known as Jürgen Klopp’s “brain,” his tactical acumen and training methodologies were instrumental in Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool’s triumphs under Klopp’s management. He was a valuable member of Klopp’s coaching staff helping to reach the team’s goals.


 Coaches need extensive technical knowledge of the game, including tactics, formations, and player roles. This expertise allows them to devise effective training sessions and game plans. 


 Motivational skills are equally important for coaches. They must inspire players to perform at their best, particularly during challenging times or after setbacks. 


 Coaches need specific certifications and training, such as UEFA coaching licenses and coaching courses. Continuous professional development is vital to stay updated with the latest training techniques and tactical innovations. 


 Similar to managers, coaches often start in youth or lower league teams, gradually progressing to higher roles as they gain experience and prove their abilities. 


 Coaches also experience pressure, particularly to improve player performance and execute successful game plans. Their work directly impacts the team’s results, adding to the stress of the job. 


 Coaches often develop closer relationships with players due to daily interactions during training. Building trust and respect is essential to motivate and improve player performance. 


Source Information: https://www.givemesport.com/difference-between-head-coach-manager-explained/


Source Information: https://scorum.com/en-us/football/@satriotomo/the-difference-between-manager-and-head-coach-in-football


Source Information: https://footballcoach365.com/football-manager-coach/

Assistant Coaches

 Assistant coaches are crucial in providing additional support to both the head coach and the players. They assist in the execution of training sessions, help with player development, and are often the bridge between the coach and the team. When a team has multiple assistant coaches, each one may specialize in a particular area such as defense, attack, or goalkeeping. This specialization allows for a more detailed focus on the individual needs of the team and players. 


 The assistant coach plays a pivotal role in providing individualized coaching. Whether it's improving a striker’s finishing technique, refining a midfielder’s passing accuracy, or developing a defender's positioning, the assistant coach is often the one who can work directly with players to help them improve. Through one-on-one attention, assistant coaches identify areas for improvement and create targeted drills that focus on those specific skills. This allows players to build confidence and continuously progress, which benefits the overall team. In youth or amateur football, assistant coaches are also vital for fostering an understanding of fundamental skills, shaping future stars. 


 In addition to providing individual coaching, assistant coaches help design and run training sessions. They are responsible for ensuring that training is effective, efficient, and tailored to the team’s current needs. They take into account the players' fitness levels, strengths, weaknesses, and the upcoming opponent, adjusting training accordingly.  During training, assistant coaches ensure that players are focused, motivated, and prepared for any tactical situation they may face. They also help to implement drills that address the tactical focus set by the head coach, allowing for a more dynamic and productive session. For example, while the head coach may direct a drill for attacking transitions, the assistant coach can focus on helping players recognize defensive responsibilities during the same drill. 


 During matches, assistant coaches are essential in helping the head coach make real-time decisions. They provide insight into the match's flow and suggest strategic changes such as substitutions, tactical switches, or adjustments to formations. They are often in direct communication with the players on the field, ensuring they are aware of the tactical changes and maintaining team discipline. Furthermore, assistant coaches can analyze the opposition’s tactics and help adjust the team’s approach to counter them effectively. They may spot weaknesses in the opponent’s defense, attacking play, or overall strategy, and relay these observations to the head coach, who can then make decisions that influence the course of the game. 


 Team chemistry is a critical component of success in soccer, and assistant coaches play a significant role in building a strong, unified squad. They help foster a positive team culture by encouraging open communication, trust, and respect among players. Assistant coaches often build relationships with players, creating a supportive environment where players feel comfortable discussing concerns or seeking advice. They also act as a sounding board for players who may be struggling with their form or morale, offering guidance or motivational support. By helping players stay mentally strong, assistant coaches contribute to a cohesive squad that works together to achieve common goals. 


 The assistant coach also plays an important role in preparing for matches. They are responsible for analyzing the team’s upcoming opponents and providing the head coach with valuable information about the opposition’s style of play, strengths, and weaknesses. This analysis helps the head coach create a detailed match plan, while the assistant coach can focus on coaching players to be prepared for those specific challenges. In many cases, assistant coaches further help prepare players physically by implementing fitness drills that build stamina, speed, and strength, ensuring that players can maintain their performance throughout the game. Proper physical conditioning is essential for sustaining high energy levels and mental focus, and assistant coaches contribute significantly to this preparation. 


 In football, maintaining mental toughness is just as important as physical preparation. Assistant coaches often provide psychological support to players, especially when they face challenges such as poor form, pressure from fans, or personal struggles. By offering encouragement, guidance, and strategies for mental resilience, assistant coaches can help players navigate these emotional hurdles and stay focused on their game. When players experience setbacks, it’s often the assistant coach who helps them refocus and stay motivated. Whether it’s after a tough loss, a difficult injury, or a performance slump, assistant coaches are key in helping players overcome adversity and remain mentally strong. 


Source Information: https://soccerwizdom.com/2024/11/23/the-importance-of-assistant-coaches-in-soccer/#:~:text=During%20training%2C%20assistant%20coaches%20ensure,more%20dynamic%20and%20productive%20session.

Physical Trainers

 In a football academy, the figure of the physical trainer is fundamental. He plans, designs and directs the training sessions and ensures that the athlete’s physical skills progress. In this way, they give their maximum performance at the peak of the campaign and with a view to the player’s future. 


 Many football physical trainers have studied a university degree in Physical Activity and Sport Sciences. After that, they specialize in football and physical preparation. 


 The physical trainer is usually a university graduate with a strong educational background that must be put into practice on the field of play. In many cases, a person who is still a university graduate is not allowed to act as an official physical trainer. Above all, it is impossible to work without even having studied. 


 Some well-known physical trainers study and implement new methodologies in their studios in various training sessions to boost knowledge. But there are other ways to prepare to become a physical trainer. The professional must keep up to date with the new studies that are published and the advances in knowledge regarding the preparation of players. 


 When it comes to the functions of a football physical trainer, the first one is vital. In each training session, they will be the top manager in the exercises to be carried out. They will be focused on working on aerobic and anaerobic endurance in order to reduce fatigue during the campaign and to resist the 90 minutes of a match. 


 The physical preparation must be correct for the players to be able to endure. Be it on the first day of the league or on the last few.


 The physical trainer is key to the player’s performance. But he must also plan the player’s recovery periods. It is his role to find and specify the time for rest and work. It is not easy to adapt the two tempos. All of this must be done without exceeding the maximum number of training hours necessary for the athlete or else this is something which could lead to injuries.


 The functions of a football academy fitness trainer should be tailored to the individual player. They can include monthly plans or even quarterly plans. Always depending on the development and characteristics of each player. It should also be taken into account that there are team work sessions, active rest time and much more. The physical trainer has among his many functions to know the moments of the player on and off the field.


  The physical trainer must know that the best way to avoid injuries is through physical preparation. Although it is impossible to control all risks as it is a contact sport. They always try to control aspects such as a good warm-up or the use of good boots to avoid complications. 


Source Information:  https://soccerinteraction.com/the-role-of-a-physical-trainer-in-a-football-academy

Performance Analsysts

 The role of a performance analyst in a football club is to use data and technology to help the coaching staff and players to improve their performance on the field. Performance analysts are responsible for collecting and analyzing data on the team’s performance, as well as on the performance of individual players and opposing teams. This data is then used to inform the coaching staff’s decisions and to help the players to identify areas for improvement. 


 One of the main responsibilities of a performance analyst is to use video analysis software to film and analyze the team’s games and training sessions. This includes capturing footage of the games and training sessions, as well as tagging and annotating the footage with relevant data such as player positions, movements and ball interactions. They will then use this footage to produce detailed statistics and analytics that can be used to inform the coaching staff’s decisions. 


 Another important aspect of the  role is to use data and analytics to inform the coaching staff’s tactical decisions. This may include analyzing data on the team’s passing patterns, set-piece routines, and attacking and defensive performance. The data will also be used on the opposing team’s performance to help the coaching staff to develop strategies for exploiting their weaknesses and neutralizing their strengths. 


 Performance analysts work closely with the players to help them to identify areas for improvement in their own performance providing one on one feedback. This may include using data and analysis to provide feedback on the player’s movements, passing, and shooting accuracy. They will also work with the players to develop individualized training programs to help them to improve their performance on the field. 


 In addition to these specific responsibilities, performance analysts must also have a strong understanding of the game of football and be able to effectively communicate the data and insights they have gathered to the coaching staff and players. They must also be able to work well under pressure, as the role often involves working to tight deadlines to prepare for upcoming games and training sessions. 


 Overall, the role of a performance analyst in a football club is a vital one, and requires a combination of technical and football knowledge. With the right skills and experience, this role can be crucial in helping a football club to improve its performance and achieve success on the field. 


Source Information: https://jobs4football.com/blog/what-is-the-role-of-a-performance-analyst-in-football/

Grounds-men

 The grounds-men (or grounds-man’s) role within a football club is to ensure the pitch is in as pristine a condition as possible for the games to be played on. The ground staff will also be responsible for the upkeep of any training facilities and are often also tasked with such diverse tasks as road and pavement clearing in snowy weather and ‘salting the car park’. 


 Every day is different, whether it be dealing with the first team, development squad or one of the youth teams in a professional football club. The main focus will normally be on preparing the surface for the first team to play on and, depending on who the opponents are, the grounds-man may receive special instructions such as ‘don’t cut the grass’, ‘cut the grass really short’, ‘don’t water the pitch’ or ‘water the pitch until it is almost flooded’! 


 On a gameday, at half time, it is not uncommon for the grounds-man to be asked to put more water on the pitch but only on half of it! The ground staff have an important role to play in giving their football team even a very small advantage over their opponents! 


The head grounds-man at a football club will invariably work extremely long hours with the weather also playing a significant part in how his day is going to develop.


A person with experience in horticulture, may be able to start as an unskilled grounds-person and then progress to skilled level through gaining experience and working towards qualifications. These qualifications could include a Certificate or Diploma in Sports and Amenity Turf Maintenance, Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills and a Certificate or Diploma in Horticulture. Degrees can also be obtained in subjects such as sports surface management, sports turf and grounds-manship. 


Source Information: https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/how-to-be-a-groundsman/

Ball Boys and Ball Girls

 

In football, a ball boy or ball girl refers to children, male or female, that is stationed near the edge of the field. Their role is to retrieve balls that go out of play. Although their activities are deemed not crucial, they still helped speed up the game by reducing the time of inactive play.


 Some association football matches that are high-profile employs the assistance of ball boy or ball girl during a tournament. The objective is that these individuals need to have a spare ball at all times. If a ball leaves the field, they automatically throw the spare ball to the player. This process helps lessen the possibility of delays caused by balls going out of bounds. 


 Football ball boys or girls are often stationed behind advertising boards that surround the pitch during these matches. Once they throw the spare ball to the player, it is also their tasked to retrieve the ball kicked out of play. 

 

 It depends on the football club when it comes to getting a ball boy or girl. Their requirements vary according to their needs. Most often, teams pick up these young children from the leagues of local youth clubs. 


 There are methods for selecting a ball boy or girl depending on the type of tournament that is played. Big leagues, including the Champions League and the English Premier League, pick from school youths. In some cases, open positions are announced and published in schools. Once selected, it does not mean that you automatically become a ball boy or girl. These youths still need to undergo a selection process and a series of tests. 


Source Information: https://sportspundit.com/soccer/terms/2681-ball-boy-girl

Player Escorts (Player Mascots)

 

The role of a Match Day player escort (or player mascot) is to walk out of the player’s tunnel alongside the home and away teams prior to kick-off.

Each player mascot will stand on pitch for the opening sequence before being returned to their parents/guardians in the stands by a coordinator.


 There are a lot of reasons with regards to why why football players walk out with kids, and depending on who you talk to they can vary from responses such as, “It’s to protect the players. Fans are less likely to throw things at the players if there are children right next to them,” to, “the clubs make money off of it.” While it is probably impossible to find out if the children actually are glorified deterrents, it is true that clubs can make money off of mascots by charging families to have their kids be one. 


 Most importantly, the overarching use of child mascots lies in public relations. It just looks good to have your team walk out with the innocence and purity of children right next to them (although, the kids aren't always so innocent). Teams often select children from local schools or clubs, or champions of local youth tournaments and leagues. 


 Football tournament organizers and sponsors often take a page out of the Make a Wish Foundation’s book and select a sick, handicapped, or underprivileged kid.  They then let these kids meet the players and they perform various other things in addition to the normal walk out. They might not even select kids, players' mothers have been known to walk out with teams on Mother's Day. Having escorts allows the teams to set an example, showcase values, and portray themselves as the role models society prefers them to be.      


 McDonald’s sent 1,408 children to the World Cup in Brazil for the purpose of being mascots and to perform various other soccer and World Cup related activities. McDonald's did that because it wanted the world to be exposed to and like its brand, and if that meant making some dreams come true along the way, then so be it.    


 So, why do soccer players walk out with kids? Well, because they are adorable, make the players look like role models, make the team seem like it has good values, occasionally help charities, bring in a little bit of money, and in general make everyone feel good about the game of soccer.  


Source Information: https://the18.com/en/soccer-news/why-do-soccer-players-walk-out-kids


Source Information: https://melbournevictory.com.au/club/fan-zone/player-mascots/

Kit-Men, Kit-Women and Kit Managers

 The Football Kit Manager is the unsung hero behind the scenes, ensuring that all the team’s equipment is in perfect condition. They’re responsible for managing the club’s inventory, which includes everything from kits and balls to training gear and medical supplies. It’s not just about keeping track of items; it’s about making sure everything is ready and available when needed. 


 Key Responsibilities of a Football Kit Manager 


 1. Inventory Management: One of the main tasks is maintaining the club’s inventory. This involves keeping track of all equipment, ensuring there’s always enough on hand, and ordering new supplies as needed. A good relationship with suppliers is crucial for this. 


 2. Equipment Maintenance: The Kit Manager ensures all equipment is in top condition. This includes regular cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. They also keep an eye on the expiration dates of medical supplies, ensuring they’re replaced in a timely manner. 


 3. Distribution of Equipment: Kit Managers are responsible for distributing equipment to players, coaches, and staff. This includes assigning uniform numbers, ensuring correct sizes, and making sure everything is properly labelled. They coordinate with other staff to ensure equipment is in the right place at the right time. 


 4. Matchday Preparation: On match days, the Kit Manager ensures that all kits are clean, pressed, and ready for action. They set up the dressing room, ensuring that each player’s gear is laid out and ready to go. This involves a lot of planning and attention to detail as well as engaging with multi departments such as Coaches for tactics boards etc… Nutritionists for energy gels, fruits etc… Physios for certain strapping and bandages… It is an operation for which multi tasking is key. 


 5. Supporting Team Operations: Beyond just managing kits, they often support other team operations. This can include assisting with logistics for away games, ensuring all necessary equipment is transported and set up as needed. 


 Qualifications and Experience Needed for a Football Kit Manager 


 Educational Background: While there’s no specific degree required, a background in sports management or logistics can be beneficial. Courses in inventory management or sports administration can provide a solid foundation. 


 Skills: Organization and time management are key. A Kit Manager needs to be detail-oriented and able to work under pressure. Good communication skills are also important, as they work closely with players and coaching staff. 


 Experience: Many Kit Managers start as volunteers or assistants, gaining experience in managing sports equipment and logistics. Experience in hospitality or laundry services can also be helpful. 


 Personal Attributes: Passion for football and dedication to the team are crucial. The role often requires long hours, including weekends and matchdays, so flexibility and a positive attitude are important. 


 The Impact of a Football Kit Manager 


 The role of a Football Kit Manager is vital to a team’s success. By ensuring that all equipment is in perfect condition and ready for use, they allow players and coaches to focus on the game. With the right skills and dedication, a Kit Manager can make a significant impact on the team’s performance and morale especially by being the eyes and ears of the Head Coach covertly undercover! 


 Being a Football Kit Manager is no small task. It’s about ensuring that the team has everything they need to succeed, both on and off the pitch. From managing inventory to preparing kits for match day, the role demands a diverse skill set and a passion for the game. For those who love football and thrive in a dynamic environment, it’s a rewarding career that puts you at the heart of the action. 


Source Information: https://jobs4football.com/blog/career-insights-kit-managers/

Officials, Medical Team, Talent Agents, Media, Security, Etc

Match Referee

 The match referee is the most important match official there is, and they're equally crucial whether you're playing at the highest level or just with a local park team. Referees stay on the field throughout the game, moving with the run of play and keeping up with all the action. It's crucial that their fitness and stamina is top quality, because they will need to be nearby any major or minor incident, with a good line of vision at all times.  


 Their primary role is controlling the match and ensuring that the laws of the game are enforced and followed at all times. When rules are broken and fouls or misconduct take place, the referee is responsible for implementing disciplinary matters. Key examples of this type of activity include the awarding of penalties and free-kicks, the flagging of foul play, and the awarding of yellow or red cards to players who have stepped out of line. Making these calls requires referees to be firm and decisive, with a knack for making their voice heard and providing clear instructions and judgments at all times.  


 Timekeeping is also in the remit of the referee. They're responsible for recording the 90 minutes of a soccer match (plus stoppage and extra time), supervising the pausing and resuming of games and making additions to the clock accordingly. Throughout all this, it's also important that this primary match official maintains strong communication with all players on the pitch, particularly team captains, who often act as intermediaries between the referee and the players on a team. 


Source Information: https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/game-officials/

Linesmen and Lineswomen (Assistant Referees)

 Assistant Referees, also referred to as Linesmen or Lineswomen, are also crucial to the smooth running of a professional football match. Assistant Referees remain on the touchlines at the side of the pitch at all times, running up and down the line in accordance with the play of the game and making key decisions based on their unique vantage points. 


 There must always be two Assistant Referees assigned to a match, one on each side of the pitch, in opposite halves. This style of organization means that both teams and both defensive lines can be observed accurately by the respective linesperson responsible for keeping an eye on them. And their most important job? Observing when attackers stray into offside positions and flagging when they do so. Without the work of the two Assistant Referees, it would be very difficult to enforce the Offside Rule, which is one of the most crucial laws within football. 


 However, flagging offsides isn't the only thing Assistant Referees are responsible for. They're also able to signal fouls when they see them, particularly if the fouls take place in areas of the pitch which the Referee is unable to view clearly. Awarding throw-ins, corner kicks, and goal kicks also comes within their remit. This array of tasks means that Assistant Referees must constantly be alert, noticing how even the slightest of touches affects the ball's movement, so that they can ensure the set-pieces they award are always the correct decision. 


Source Information: https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/game-officials/

Fourth Official

 The final on-field match official to discuss is the Fourth Official. This individual plays a key role in regulating any match, even though they're rarely in the limelight. The Fourth Official remains close to the touchline at all times, between the two dugouts and ready to intervene if any off-field disagreements take place.  


 This is because one of the primary roles of this match official is to monitor players and coaches in the technical areas, who will often approach them with various grievances throughout a match. Diplomatic skills and the ability to explain decisions and placate angry managers are therefore crucial to the arsenal of any Fourth Official. However, their duties extend beyond just that. 


 One of the most important responsibilities afforded to the Fourth Official is the supervision of substitutions. They ensure that substitutes' equipment is in order, before indicating substitutions by holding up the relevant squad numbers on the electronic board. They must also record the exact times that substitutions are made, as well as keeping a detailed record of other key events that take place throughout the match. 


 The Fourth Official's remit also includes signaling extra time and stoppage time (using the same electronic board), as well as supervising the re-entrance of injured players onto the pitch, the replacement of balls, and any entrance of physios or medical staff onto the pitch. 


 One more crucial thing to note is that a Fourth Official is usually also a qualified referee that's capable of taking the place of any of three match officials (referee, two assistants) if they cannot continue for whatever reason. Due to this fact, you could say that even though many people view it as the least important of the on-field match officials, the Fourth Official role requires the most versatile skills base of all. 


Source Information: https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/game-officials/

Video Assistant Refereeing (VAR)

 Over the last few seasons, elite European football has changed demonstrably with the introduction of video assistant refereeing. Now, Video Match Officials (VMOs) play a crucial role in officiating top-level games. 


Their role essentially amounts to monitoring a video feed in real time to recheck passages of play for fouls, serious incidents, penalties, offside calls, handballs, and more. The job of a VMO can vary depending on the competition they're officiating in, but there are some key areas that are followed pretty much across the board.


A video assistant referee is "a match official, with independent access to match footage, who may assist the referee only in the event of a 'clear and obvious error' or 'serious missed incident' relating to:

  • Goal/no goal
  • Penalty/no penalty
  • Direct red card (not a second yellow card/caution)
  • Mistaken identity (when the referee cautions or sends off the wrong player)


 When such a decision must be taken, Video Assistant Referees have a responsibility to contact the head Referee via a line of audio communication and inform them of their opinion. They can advise referees to change their decision, or advise them to view a pitch side monitor so that they can confirm that they're confident they made the correct decision. VAR is designed to cut out officiating errors, although it has led to its fair share of controversy (but sadly, we don't have time to get into that). 


Source Information: https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/game-officials/

Sports Medicine Physicians and Physiotherapists

 Sports medicine physicians are well-known for treating football players. You may see them on the sidelines of major football events such as FIFA World Cups, Euros, Copa Americas, Copa Libertadores, AFCONs, AFC Cup Matches, Champions League matches, Europa League matches, Conference League matches, domestic Cup Matches and domestic League matches. But sports medicine physicians treat anyone who has an injury or non-surgical concern regarding their musculoskeletal system.


  

A sports medicine physician can:

  • Diagnose, treat and manage injuries to your musculoskeletal system and underlying conditions that can affect your physical performance.
  • Educate football players about injury prevention, nutrition and safe ways to exercise, condition and build strength.
  • Provide medical care during sporting events.
  • Offer guidance on when it’s safe for athletes to return to play after an injury.


 

In addition, a sports medicine physician can treat:

  • Sprains.
  • Muscle strains.
  • Fractures or breaks.
  • Joint injuries (shoulder or knee).
  • Overuse injuries (rotator cuff or stress fracture).
  • Tendinitis.
  • Osteoarthritis.
  • Concussions.


Physiotherapists


 Football is a physically demanding sport that places high amounts of stress on the players’ bodies. In order to perform at their best and prevent injuries, football teams rely on the expertise of skilled football physiotherapist’s. The role of a football physio is crucial in providing injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation services to players. 



1. Pre-training and Game Preparation

 

  • Prior to training sessions and matches, a football physio plays a key role in preparing the players physically and mentally.
  • They conduct pre-training and pre-game assessments to evaluate the players’ readiness for physical activity, ensuring they are free from any injury concerns or limitations.
  • Physios may perform specific injury prevention techniques such as taping, joint mobilizations or massage to ensure players feel physically and mentally prepared for training or games..
  • They also provide guidance on warm-up routines, activation exercises, and strategies to optimize performance during training and matches.



2. Pitch-side Medical Cover

 

  • During training sessions and matches, a football physio is present on the side-lines to provide immediate medical attention in the event of an injury or medical emergency.
  • They assess and manage acute injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures, employing appropriate first aid measures and determining the need for further medical evaluation.
  • Physios are responsible for administering immediate care, including wound management, injury stabilization, and pain relief.
  • They communicate with coaches, players, and medical professionals to ensure appropriate actions are taken, such as player substitution or referral for advanced medical treatment if necessary.


3. Injury Assessment and Diagnosis

 

  • When injuries occur, a football physio is responsible for assessing and diagnosing the nature and severity of the injury.
  • Through comprehensive physical examinations, including range of motion tests, palpation, and muscle strength assessments, they can identify the specific structures involved and determine the appropriate course of action.
  • Utilizing their expertise, physios may also recommend further investigations such as imaging (X-rays, MRI scans) to provide a more accurate diagnosis.


4. Treatment and Rehabilitation


  • After an injury diagnosis, a football physio develops individualized treatment plans tailored to the player’s specific needs and goals.
  • Treatment options may include manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and trigger point release to alleviate pain and restore mobility.
  • They also guide players through therapeutic exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, and stability.
  • As players progress, the physiotherapist monitors their recovery closely, adjusting the treatment plan accordingly.


5. Return-to-Play and Performance enhancement


  • One of the primary goals of a football physio is to facilitate a safe and timely return to play.
  • They develop comprehensive return-to-play protocols, gradually reintroducing players to training and competitive matches while monitoring their progress and minimizing the risk of reinjury.
  • Football physios also collaborate with strength and conditioning coaches, providing insights on injury prevention exercises, performance enhancement techniques, and tailored conditioning programs.
  • They educate players on injury prevention strategies, and techniques to optimize performance and reduce the likelihood of future injuries.


6. Administrative Tasks

 

  • In addition to their direct involvement with players, a football physio performs various administrative tasks essential for efficient team management.
  • They maintain accurate medical records, including injury assessments, treatment plans, and progress reports.
  • Physios collaborate with other healthcare professionals, coaches, and management to ensure effective communication and coordination of care.
  • They are also responsible for scheduling medical appointments, coordinating referrals, and managing the inventory of medical supplies and equipment.


7. Collaboration with The Multi-Disciplinary Team

 

  • A football physio works collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary team to provide comprehensive care for football players. This team may include sport scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, sports medicine doctors, orthopedic surgeons, nutritionists, and sports psychologists.
  • Through regular communication and coordination, the physiotherapist shares valuable insights on the players’ injuries, progress, and rehabilitation plans with the rest of the team.
  • They participate in interdisciplinary meetings and discussions to ensure a holistic approach to player management and optimize the effectiveness of the treatment plan.
  • The football physio also liaises with the team’s medical staff to coordinate player assessments, diagnostic tests, and referrals to specialists when needed.
  • By working together with other professionals, the multi-disciplinary team can provide comprehensive care, addressing all aspects of player health, well-being, and performance.


 By actively engaging with the multi-disciplinary team, a football physio ensures that players receive the best possible care, benefiting from the collective expertise and collaboration of various healthcare professionals. 


Source Information: https://thefootballphysio.co.uk/the-role-of-a-football-physio/


Source Information: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24627-sports-medicine-physician

Football Agents, Football Scouts and Sporting Directors

 Football agents are integral to the global football ecosystem, often operating behind the scenes but wielding significant influence over players’ careers, club strategies, and even league dynamics. Their role transcends simple contract negotiation, encompassing career management, brand building, and advisory duties.


  At their core, football agents represent players in contract negotiations, ensuring their clients secure the best possible terms. However, their responsibilities are far more expansive: 


  1. Contract Negotiation: Agents negotiate player contracts with clubs, focusing on salaries, bonuses, and other perks. They also secure favorable clauses like release terms or loyalty bonuses.
  2. Transfer Mediation: During transfer windows, agents play a pivotal role in moving players between clubs. They liaise with interested parties to ensure the best deal for their clients and themselves.
  3. Brand Management: Beyond football, agents help players build their personal brands. This includes securing endorsement deals, social media strategy, and media appearances.
  4. Career Planning: A good agent offers strategic advice on career moves, helping players decide when to switch clubs, leagues, or even roles within teams.
  5. Legal and Financial Guidance: Soccer agents often provide legal and financial advice, either directly or through a network of professionals, ensuring their clients' wealth and interests are protected.
  6. Mentorship: Especially for young players, agents act as mentors, guiding them through the pressures of professional football and helping them adapt to life on and off the pitch.


The Influence of Football Agents on the Game


Football agents have reshaped the sport, often acting as intermediaries in one of the world’s most lucrative industries. 


  1. Market Dynamics: Agents influence player valuations, often driving up transfer fees and salaries. Super-agents like Jorge Mendes and Mino Raiola (before his passing) have had a profound impact on market trends.
  2. Globalization: Agents scout talent globally, connecting players from less prominent footballing nations to opportunities in top leagues. This has diversified and elevated the sport’s talent pool.
  3. Club Strategies: Agents’ relationships with clubs can shape recruitment strategies. For instance, an agent with multiple high-profile clients may use their influence to negotiate package deals.
  4. Youth Development: By spotting and signing young talent, agents have played a role in nurturing future stars. However, their involvement in youth football has sparked debates about exploitation versus opportunity.


Controversies and Criticism


 While agents are essential, their practices have not been without controversy: 

 

  1. Exorbitant Fees: Football agents often earn substantial commissions from transfer deals, sometimes exceeding 10% of the transfer fee. In some high-profile cases, this has sparked public and regulatory backlash.
  2. Conflicts of Interest: Agents occasionally represent multiple parties in a deal, such as the player and the club, creating potential conflicts of interest.
  3. Youth Exploitation: There have been allegations of agents exploiting young players, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, by signing them to unfair contracts.
  4. Transfer Market Inflation: Critics argue that agents contribute to skyrocketing transfer fees and wages, destabilizing club finances.
  5. Lack of Regulation: The soccer agent industry is often criticized for insufficient oversight, leading to unethical practices and financial irregularities.


The Rise of Super-Agents


 The term "super-agent" refers to agents who manage multiple high-profile clients and dominate the footballing landscape. Figures like Jorge Mendes, who managed Cristiano Ronaldo, and Pini Zahavi, known for brokering Neymar’s record-breaking move to PSG, have become household names. Super-agents are characterized by their: 


  • Extensive networks with clubs, managers, and sponsors.
  • Ability to orchestrate blockbuster deals.
  • Influence on football’s power dynamics, often dictating the terms of negotiations.


 Their rise has drawn both admiration and criticism. While they have undeniably contributed to the sport's commercialization and growth, their dominance has led to questions about fairness and transparency in the transfer market. 


Regulations and The Role of FIFA


 FIFA and other international governing bodies have taken steps to regulate football agents: 


  1. Licensing Requirements: FIFA reintroduced licensing exams in 2023, ensuring agents meet professional and ethical standards.
  2. Cap on Fees: In an effort to curb excessive earnings, FIFA introduced a cap on agent commissions, limiting them to 10% of the transfer fee or 3% of the player’s salary for renewals.
  3. Transparency: Clubs and agents must now disclose detailed financial information, promoting transparency in transfers.
  4. Youth Protections: FIFA has implemented rules to protect young players, including limiting international transfers for players under 18 and ensuring fair representation by agents.


 Despite these measures, enforcement remains a challenge, particularly in jurisdictions with less stringent oversight. 


The Future of Football Agents


 As football continues to evolve, the role of agents will likely adapt to new challenges and opportunities: 


  1. Digital Transformation: Agents are increasingly leveraging data analytics and social media insights to enhance player careers and marketability.
  2. Women’s Football: With the rapid growth of women’s soccer, agents are now representing female players, navigating a relatively new but promising market.
  3. Ethical Practices: Public scrutiny and stricter regulations may push agents toward more ethical and transparent practices.
  4. Diversification: Agents are diversifying their portfolios, offering additional services like mental health support, personal development, and post-retirement planning.
  5. Artificial Intelligence: Some agencies are beginning to use AI tools to identify talent, analyze player performance, and predict market trends.



Football Scouts


 

Football scouts are the connection between unsigned soccer players and clubs. Their job is to seek players with talent which can be a good fit for a specific club.


There are three types of scouts:


 1. Scouts for clubs: This is the most common type of scout. They know the ins and outs of the club they work for so they can find the perfect type of player that can benefit the club and the squad. 


2.  International scouts: These scouts work for the international squads and their job is to recruit already signed talent for their specific country. Once you shine in your new club these scouts can be the big step for you to play for your international country squad. Could you imagine playing for your country? 


 3. Scouts for agencies: Sometimes they are the agents themselves and other times they work for agencies. Their job is to recruit talent so they can send them to the web of clubs they might have contact with. 


Football scouts are pivotal in identifying and nurturing football talent, playing a strategic role that spans various demanding tasks. 


 In-depth Player Analysis 


 Scouts meticulously evaluate technical skills like dribbling, passing, shooting, tactical acumen, and game intelligence and positioning. For instance, scouts noted Lionel Messi's adaptability and skill improvements at FC Barcelona from a very young age. 


 Monitoring Player Development  


 Scouts track players’ progression under different coaching styles and environments over time, including watching their adaptation to training regimens and performance in competitive settings. 


 Attending Matches and Training Sessions  


 They travel extensively to watch potential recruits at matches and training sessions, from local youth leagues to international tournaments, which often involves watching numerous games weekly and analyzing player performances across different levels of competition. 


 Statistical Analysis and Reporting 


 Utilizing advanced metrics and data analytics tools, scouts gather performance data such as pass completion rates and tackling efficiency. They compile detailed reports that blend quantitative data with qualitative observations, which help clubs make informed recruitment decisions. 


 Talent Spotting at Youth Levels 


 Focusing on youth tournaments and academies, scouts look for early signs of talent that predict success, including technical skills and psychological resilience. Notable discoveries, such as Cesc Fabregas by Arsenal scouts at age 15, exemplify the importance of this aspect. 


 Evaluating Physical and Mental Attributes 


 Beyond technical and tactical skills, scouts assess physical attributes—speed, strength, agility—and mental traits like competitiveness and stress management. Observations on how players react to setbacks and their communication on the field are crucial. 


 Networking and Information Gathering 


 Building a robust network within the football world, including coaches, other scouts, and sports agents, is essential for gaining insights and tips about up-and-coming players. For example, Ajax’s acquisition of Frenkie de Jong was greatly aided by a well-established network within Dutch football. 


 Football scouts integrate these comprehensive tasks to give clubs critical insights, helping them make strategic decisions about player signings and development. Their role is essential in identifying talent and shaping the future of football teams by ensuring that promising players are recognized and cultivated effectively 


 

Importance of Football Scouts to Clubs


 Football scouts hold a crucial role in football clubs’ strategic development and success. 


  • Identifying Hidden Gems: Scouts have a keen eye for spotting under-the-radar talent, often at lower costs, before competitors notice them. For example, Jamie Vardy played non-league football before being scouted by Leicester City and eventually helping the club win the Premier League. 
  • Long-term Strategic Planning: By identifying promising young players, scouts contribute to a club’s long-term success, helping build a sustainable talent pipeline, reducing reliance on expensive transfers, and fostering a stable development environment within the club.
  • Cost-Efficiency in Transfers: Scouts help clubs avoid costly mistakes in the transfer market by providing detailed assessments of potential signings. Their insights ensure that clubs spend money wisely, investing in players who are a good fit strategically and culturally.
  • Enhancing Team Competitiveness: By bringing in top-notch and suitable talent, scouts directly enhance the team’s performance and competitiveness in domestic and international competitions.



 Through their extensive and varied contributions, soccer scouts are indispensable to football clubs. They play a key role in shaping their competitive edge and ensuring sustainable success across seasons.  




Sporting Directors


 A Sporting Director or sometimes known as a Technical Director is a senior management figure at a professional football club. It is a relatively new position within football and some Premier League clubs have a sporting director in place who operates at Board level such as Manchester City FC. Most clubs usually have a manager that undertakes both roles with a Head of Recruitment in place. However, clubs within the top tier have started to employ Sporting Directors to undertake key decisions in the recruitment and transfers of players at a Board level often liaising with CEO and club owners.  


 They play an important role in the implementation of a strategic structure to help clubs improve areas including but not limited to, recruitment, analysis of football and overall operations of the club. Ultimately a Sporting Director’s role is to have a significant impact on the overall direction which a club aims to move towards in terms of its evolution and philosophy. In Germany for example, a Head Coach which takes the role of a Manager is responsible for coaching/training the team whereas a Sporting Director has the role of analyzing the team’s style of play and implementing a philosophy that will run through a club down from the first team to the academy level. 


 

What are the duties and responsibilities?


 

  • Managing the recruitment and transfer of players at a Premier League Club or a top-tier international club such as in the German Bundesliga or Spanish La Liga.
  • Implementing a philosophy which will run through a club down from the first team to the academy level.
  • Implementing a long-term strategy and setting targets.
  • Improvement of facilities.
  • Regular meetings to review tactics and results with the first-team coaching staff at a club.
  • Identifying first-team players that could impact a club based on its philosophy.
  • To work in the budget handled by the CEO of a club.
  • To liaise with board directors and first-team coach/manager of a professional football club.


 

What knowledge and skills are required?

  • Experience in working ideally as a Head of Recruitment or Director role involved in recruitment and transfers of players at an elite level.
  • Experience in working with elite players, coaches and technical staff at a first-team level at a professional club.
  • Proven track record of clear philosophy and evolution of football clubs.
  • Enhanced understanding of football knowledge in terms of patterns of play and formations.
  • Understanding a professional footballing environment and having a modern approach to
all the technical components that support high-quality performances on the pitch.
  • Knowledge and understanding of talent development and performance.
  • Strong leadership skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Network of contacts.
  • Hard-working and to be able to use initiative.
  • Demonstrate the highest professional standards of operation at all times.


 

What qualifications are required?

Usually, a person qualified as a Head coach or Head of Recruitment becomes a Sporting Director. Certain clubs also employ ex-professional football players as their Sporting Director. 


 

What types of clubs recruit for a Sporting Director


 Sporting Directors are generally employed by clubs in top-tier elite-level professional football. The role is very prominent in European clubs such as in the German Bundesliga and Spanish La Liga but clubs in the Premier League are becoming attracted to the role of a Sporting Director. They can also be employed as a Director of Football or Technical Director.  


 

What are the salary expectations?


  There are lucrative salary expectations involved as a Sporting Director. For example, it was reported that Ralf Rangnick who at the time was a Sporting Director at RB Leipzig earned approximately €3-4million annually. In the EFL, it was researched on average that salary expectations are approximately between £70,000 – £200,000 per annum. 


Source Information: https://soccerwizdom.com/2024/12/06/soccer-agents-the-role-impact-and-evolution-in-modern-football/


Source Information: https://alicantefootballacademy.com/how-to-get-scouted-in-football-soccer/


Source Information: https://blog.jobsinsports.com/2024/05/06/how-to-become-a-soccer-scout/


Source Information: https://thepfsa.co.uk/careers/sporting-director/

Press Media and Press Conferences

 Press conferences are standard practice and often mandatory across football, with managers and sometimes players sitting in front of the media to discuss various topics. 


In Football, this means a pre- and post-match press conference before every game.


  Though they may seem increasingly archaic in the age of social media and lightning-quick news cycles, press conferences give a direct opportunity for journalists to speak to the head coach and the players. 


 It serves as either a preview for a game or an immediate debrief after one. 


 The press officer will lead the press conference, usually allowing a broadcast journalist – for example from Sky Sports – to begin proceedings with a question or two. 


 Journalists in attendance are able to submit themselves for questions throughout, with the coach and the players routinely engaging in a back-and-forth conversation with them. 


 Journalists from various media outlets and publications are able to apply for attendance to a press conference.


The media room isn't always where a football player wants to be - regardless of whether they're speaking with journalists before or after a performance and whether they're playing perfectly or poorly.


In football, most contracts and competition rules obligate players to appear before the media - no matter how they're feeling!

 

 

The Mbappé incident

For most football players, media duties are simply an extension of their roles on the pitch. This is because competition rules — which are then carried into player contracts and participation agreements via the relevant football associations — stipulate that players must show up for the media and engage with their commercial partners.

France international Kylian Mbappé fell foul of this in December 2022 after refusing to take part in his media duties following a World Cup match in Qatar. 

At the time, Mbappé had three goals to his name in the tournament after scoring against both Denmark and Australia. He was also awarded Player of the Match in both games. While such an accolade generally means that you’re required to speak to the media, Mbappé refused. This was considered to be serious post-match misconduct by FIFA, which subsequently fined the France Football Federation (FFF).

Mbappé spoke out over the punishment, stating: “I have nothing against journalists, if I didn’t come to talk it’s because I need to fully concentrate on the competition and not waste energy on other things”. 


Source Information: https://www.thisisanfield.com/2023/02/how-do-jurgen-klopp-press-conferences-work-and-what-is-an-embargo/ 


Source Information: https://www.brabners.com/insights/sport/media-obligations-and-athlete-welfare-should-footballers-be-mentally-fit-for-interview

Stadium Safety, Security and Steward Service

 Safety means being protected from all aspects that can cause harm, be they accidental or intentional. It relates to the protection of people from being injured or facing a risk to their health and well-being during sports events. Safety concerns the physical infrastructure of the stadium, the operation of the stadium, the mitigation of any potential hazards, and the behaviour of the crowd inside and outside the stadium. 


 Security means the protection of the stadium building, stadium staff, players, match officials and spectators from external threats and misbehavior. Security therefore focuses on identifying these risk factors and putting measures in place to deter, prevent and sanction any such incidents. Terrorism is an extreme example of an external and intentional threat to the stadium building and people. 


 The third element in an integrated safety and security approach is service, which comprises all measures designed to make football and other sport events enjoyable and welcoming for all. Safety and security are in principle a frontline (customer-facing) service, and often stewards and security personnel are the first or only members of staff with whom spectators will interact. 


 

The balance between safety, security and service is key. A stadium may be secure, but that does not automatically make it safe or welcoming. In fact, physical security measures such as fences and lockable gates can pose major safety risks in emergency situations.


Stadium staff often have a role in both frontline service delivery and warranting the safety of all spectators. For example, stewards providing directions or showing fans to their allocated seats also have an important role in facilitating emergency procedures.


 

The balance between safety, security and service is key. A stadium may be secure, but that does not automatically make it safe or welcoming. In fact, physical security measures such as fences and lockable gates can pose major safety risks in emergency situations.


Stadium staff often have a role in both frontline service delivery and warranting the safety of all spectators. For example, stewards providing directions or showing fans to their allocated seats also have an important role in facilitating emergency procedures.


 A designated person, usually called a safety and security manager or similar, should ultimately be responsible for all safety and security operations on behalf of the stadium. In some cases, this manager (and deputy) is named on the stadium safety certification, which means that they are personally responsible and liable for ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees and participants. The safety and security manager should be a competent person with the appropriate skills and proven experience. 


 A designated person, usually called a safety and security manager or similar, should ultimately be responsible for all safety and security operations on behalf of the stadium. In some cases, this manager (and deputy) are named on the stadium safety certification, which means that they are personally responsible and liable for ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees and participants. The safety and security manager should be a competent person with the appropriate skills and proven experience. 


 The deployment of police and security inside and outside the stadium should always be risk-based and proportionate. Too many visible police and security staff could create an environment in which some groups of spectators feel intimidated, which would detract from their overall experience. 


 Good customer service should be embedded in all parts of the match organization, including stewards. The basic roles and duties of a steward can vary between countries (and also stadiums within countries). In general terms, it usually involves taking care of the health, safety and welfare of all spectators, carrying out safety checks, controlling crowd flows (ingress and egress), providing basic first aid, and responding to emergencies. 


Steward Services


 At many football events stewards are often the first and only point of contact between the venue management and/or event organizer as well as members of the public (the fans or match spectators). 


 

All stewards should be identifiable by spectators and other stewards and safety personnel. Ground management should provide high visibility, weather-proof jackets or tabards. This should indicate the duty being performed (chief steward, steward, etc) and carry a unique identification number.


In addition, ground management should maintain a record of each steward, including:


  • Name, age, address and contact number(s)
  • Details of professional or vocational qualification, and any training sessions attended
  • Events attended, including the duties allocated or positions in the venue.


Source Information: https://inside.fifa.com/innovation/stadium-guidelines/general-process-guidelines/operations/safety-and-security-operations


Source Information: https://sgsa.org.uk/safety-management/stewarding/

Team Bus Drivers (Operators)

Our team at 11 v 11 Football Channel is made up of passionate and knowledgeable sports enthusiasts who are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. We are committed to helping athletes find the perfect gear for their needs and goals.

Matchday Commentators and TV Pundits

At 11 v 11 Football Channel, we are dedicated to providing high-quality sports equipment and apparel to athletes of all levels. Our mission is to empower athletes to achieve their full potential through our products and services.

Stadium Flagbearers

Founded in 2005, 11 v 11 Football Channel has been a leading provider of sports equipment and apparel for over 15 years. From our humble beginnings as a small family-owned business, we have grown to serve customers across the country.

Sports Nutritionists and Sports Psychologists

 Sports nutritionists are experts in the field of nutrition who work with athletes to help them optimize their health and performance. They use their knowledge of nutrition to create individualized meal plans and dietary strategies that help athletes reach their goals. 


 The main role of a sport nutritionist or dietitian is to educate players and support staff on how dietary strategies can enhance performance, recovery and health. 


 This is even more relevant in a championship that occurs at the end of the regular season, as footballers will have to extend their season by an additional four to eight weeks on top of their busy club calendars. 


 Footballers need strength, speed, power and endurance, but the physiological demands, and consequently energy requirements, of the game differ according to the player’s position on the team. For instance, while midfielders usually cover the longest distances (10-13 km – about a quarter of a marathon) per match, goalkeepers cover very short distances (around 1 km). 


 Intensity is another key factor to consider, with forwards usually covering the longest high-speed running distances (0.6 –1 km). 


 On average, a top-class player performs about 150-250 brief intense actions during a game requiring a combination of speed and agility along with strength. 


 Therefore, while forwards and midfielders may require more energy in the form of carbohydrates, goalkeepers with lower energy expenditure may need less, and instead opt for more quality protein, vegetables and salads.


  Forwards and midfielders such as Bellingham, Foden and Kane required more energy in the form of carbohydrates than Jordan Pickford as a goalkeeper .


 

Player Tracking Technology


 Nowadays, technology is helping sport nutritionists to adjust the diet for each player. Professional football clubs utilize tracking devices, such as global positioning satellite (GPS) and local positioning systems (LPS), combined with physiological measurements (e.g. heart rate) to monitor the players’ speed and distances. The further and more intensely they run, the more carbs they will need. 


 

Home Comforts are Key


 Diet is something more than meeting the nutritional requirements, as it is also a sensory experience. Nutritionists must take into account the taste of the foods especially in major football events which involves several weeks of living in different facilities away from home. It is common that teams ship food and drinks to their quarters during the tournament in order to make food more appealing to the common dietary pattern of footballers. 


 For instance, England shipped a load of food and ingredients to Qatar in 2022, including Jaffa Cakes, teabags, mustard, chocolate, tomato sauce, herbal teas, oatcakes and hundreds of baked bean tins.  


Jaffa Cakes are just one of a number of home comforts the England squad enjoy 


 This is not only important to make the diet more player-friendly, it may also help to avoid gastrointestinal problems. The threat of food poisoning is always present and this is taken very seriously by sport nutritionists. 


 

Food testing


 Any food causing a possible digestive side-effect could hamper performance so nutritionists have to check and test all the food provided to footballers. Usually, they work side-by-side with chefs in order to test the quality of fresh meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, milk and water supplied, for example to their base in Germany, so nothing can derail their campaign. Players are also likely to be banned from eating at local souks or supermarkets. 


 

Hydration Station


 Another key factor for nutritionists is to ensure that footballers are well hydrated before each game. They can use different strategies to ensure that this happens. For instance by analyzing urine specific gravity with a portable refractometer or reagent strips, assessing urine color, thirst or taking daily body weight. 


 

Play, Rest, Recover, Repeat


 Good player nutrition doesn’t stop when the match ends, it is important, particularly in a tournament like the Euros, that players can recover quickly and play again in the next match. 


 Players need to aim to restore hydration and electrolyte balance as soon as possible after a match, and then the focus moves to replenishing carbohydrate stores (often with the use of sports drinks and gels) and finally to optimize protein synthesis for the repair and adaptation of sore muscles. 


 Arsene Wenger once said: 


 “Footballers cannot afford to practice every day in the pursuit of becoming a star and then end up eating something that destroys all the good work that they put in the ‘visible part’ of their preparation.” 


 Pep Guardiola also shares this view and he requested a team of nutritionists when he joined Bayern Munich and Manchester City. Which was backed up when his midfielder Fabian Delph declared that changing his diet helped to kick-start his career: 


 “I stopped eating red meat but still eat other meat,” he said. “I have changed my diet in terms of getting it more balanced, more healthy by eating more greens, more vegetables – and I’ve cut out sugar. It’s helped me tremendously. I kept picking up muscle injuries. I was obviously getting older. I have always trained with crazy intensity. We have got a fantastic nutritionist at the club, and he has helped me tremendously.” 



Sports Psychologists


 

Many of the best footballers use a sport psychologist to improve their performance. This helps them improve their mindset, confidence, concentration and leadership skills.


A sport psychologist can help to ensure that a player is competing and training with intensity, is motivated to improve and plays to their full potential. All footballers, from senior internationals to youth players can benefit from working with a football sport psychologist.


 They can help football players cope with competitive fears, improve mental skills, prepare for competitions, return after injury, develop pregame routines or routines before a shot, improve practice efficiency, cope with adversity, perform well under pressure, manage expectations, maintain confidence, handle emotions after setbacks and mistakes, improve consistency in performance, among other skills. It all starts, however, with building a solid team culture, including goals, values, attitudes, and beliefs. 

 

A football sport psychologist can help footballers of all levels become the best player they can be. A football sport psychologist works in two main ways:

  • The first is when a player asks for help with something they are struggling with; for example, some footballers may be struggling with a lack of confidence or poor self-discipline on the pitch.
  • Other players work with a football psychologist to improve their overall performance. Whilst they may not have a specific problem, they recognize that their mindset is such an important part of being a great footballer that it needs to be worked on and coached just as much as the other aspects of their game.


The job of a sport psychologist in football is to help you become a more complete player on and off the pitch. Not only can a football sport psychologist help you with the strategies and mental skills to perform to your very best while playing, but they can also help you prepare better off the pitch by helping you become a student of the game. 


 Having the right mindset in football and the ability to perform under pressure is vitally important. As Andrea Pirlo once said: “Football is played with your head. Your feet are just tools”. It therefore makes sense to train your way of thinking so you can really maximize your performances. 


 The best footballers play at their best consistently by keeping their emotions in check, thinking clearly and making the right decisions. Above all, they are motivated to improve and thrive in pressure situations. Big players put in big performances in big matches. It is interesting to consider that, despite being so important, not many players invest that much time in training this area of their game. That’s where a football psychologist can help. 


Source Information: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/news/pr-opinion/feeding-the-footballers


Source Information: https://www.futurefit.co.uk/blog/become-sports-nutrition-specialist/


Source Information: https://www.innerdrive.co.uk/guides/sport-psychology-for-football/


Source Information: https://www.sportanddev.org/latest/events/mind-games-role-sports-psychologists-team-sports

The Different Formations

4-3-3 (1st Version)

 The 4-3-3 formation is a popular and widely used soccer formation that has been employed by many top national and club teams around the world. It is a formation that provides both attacking and defensive options and is considered to be one of the most balanced formations in the game. 


 This formation can be considered an attacking formation as it involves having three forwards, four midfielders, and three defenders.


  The 4-3-3 formation consists of four defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards. The four defenders are made up of two center-backs and two full-backs. The center-backs are responsible for defending the central areas of the pitch, while the full-backs are responsible for marking the opposing wingers and providing support in attack. 


 The three midfielders in a 4-3-3 formation are usually made up of one defensive midfielder and two attacking midfielders. The defensive midfielder is responsible for breaking up opposition attacks and providing cover for the defense, while the two attacking midfielders are tasked with creating chances for the forwards and supporting the attack. 


 The three forwards in a 4-3-3 formation are typically made up of one central striker and two wingers. The central striker is responsible for scoring goals and leading the attack, while the wingers are responsible for providing width and stretching the opposition defense. 


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-3-3-formation/

4-3-3 (2nd Version) Diamond or 3-3-3-1

Johan Cryuff's FC Barcelona   


Johan Cryuff set his Barcelona team up in a 4-3-3 shape, but often he converted this into a 3-4-3 through a centre-back stepping forward into what then become a midfield diamond.


 The Dutchman favored this shape because it allowed him to utilize the passing ability and tactical prowess of players like Pep Guardiola and Ronald Koeman. Due to its highly fluid nature, 3-4-3 was also the perfect starting point for the concept of Total Football, which Cruyff pioneered as both a player and coach. 


 Cruyff believed that playing 4 at the back was a waste of an attacking player, and that operating with a back 3 solved this issue by creating the opportunity for more overloads in attacking areas. The width generated by the 3-4-3 formation also allowed Cruyff's possession-based teams to stretch the opposition and keep hold of the ball. 


Source Information: https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/3-4-3-formation-football-tactics-explained-tuchel-conte-pochettino-southgate/


Source Information: https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/tactics/3-4-3-formation/

4-3-3 (3rd Version) or the 4-3-1-2

4-3-3 (3rd Version) or the 4-3-1-2

 The 4-3-1-2 formation, also known as the "diamond" formation, is a popular tactical formation. This formation is known for its compactness and ability to control the midfield.  The 4-3-1-2 formation can be considered a balanced formation in terms of attacking and defensive play. 


 Four Defenders (LB, CB, CB, RB) - The backline features two center-backs and two full-backs. Center-backs are tasked with marking the opposition's forwards and protecting the goal, while full-backs play a dual role in defense and attack, frequently overlapping with the midfield to add width and support offensive plays. 


 Three Central Midfielders (CDM, CM, CM) - This formation's midfield trio includes one defensive midfielder and two central midfielders. The defensive midfielder serves as a protective barrier for the defense, disrupting opposition attacks. The central midfielders handle ball distribution, maintain possession, and connect the defense with the attack, ensuring smooth transitions. 


 One Attacking Midfielder (CAM) - Situated at the peak of the diamond, the attacking midfielder is key to generating scoring chances. This player operates in advanced areas, bridging the midfield and the forwards, and is primarily responsible for playmaking and providing support to the strikers. 


 Two Strikers (ST) - The forward line comprises two center-forwards dedicated to scoring goals. Positioned centrally, they leverage the creative support of the attacking midfielder and the width provided by the full-backs and midfielders, thus enhancing the team's attacking dynamics. 


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-3-1-2-formation/


 

4-3-3 (4th Version) or the 4-1-2-3

4-3-3 (3rd Version) or the 4-3-1-2

 The 4-1-2-3 formation, known for its dynamic and offensive style, is a tactical system that blends defensive stability with a powerful attacking force. This formation is highly regarded for its ability to dominate the midfield while providing numerous offensive alternatives. The 4-1-2-3 system, which consists of four defenders, one defensive midfielder, two central midfielders, and a front three made up of two wingers and a central striker, provides a balanced and formidable presence on the field. 


 Defenders: The defensive unit consists of two central defenders and two fullbacks. The centre defenders serve as the backbone, demonstrating defensive strength, aerial ability, and the ability to start plays from the back. Meanwhile, fullbacks are instrumental in providing width in attack, making overlapping runs, and delivering precise crosses into the penalty area. 


 Defensive Midfielder - Positioned just in front of the defense, the lone defensive midfielder serves as a shield, disrupting opposition plays and distributing the ball efficiently. This player is crucial in breaking up attacks, intercepting passes, and initiating the team's build-up play from a deeper position. 


 The two central midfielders have a dual role, balancing defensive responsibilities with an emphasis on ball distribution and creative play. They must excel in both tackling and passing, serving as the link between the defensive and offensive groups. These players frequently contribute to the team's possession game and assist the front three. 


 Wingers - The two wingers, who are positioned on each side of the central striker, play an important role in stretching the opposition's defense, creating scoring opportunities, and delivering accurate crosses into the box. Wingers are recognized for their speed, dribbling ability, and flare, which offer an unpredictable element to the team's offensive play. 


 Striker - The central striker leads the offensive line, with the purpose of converting chances into goals. This player should have clinical finishing talents, the ability to hold up play, and the ability to link up with the wingers and central midfielders. Movement and positioning of the striker are critical for breaking down opposition defenses. 


The 4-1-2-3 formation provides teams with a diverse framework from which to adjust their playing style based on the squad's abilities and the specific needs of a contest. This formation provides a solid structure for teams seeking a balanced blend of defensive resilience and offensive prowess, whether focusing on dominating possession or launching rapid counter-attacks. 


 

Defensive Stability

A single defensive midfielder adds an extra layer of protection to the backline. This player serves as a defensive barrier, disrupting opposing attacks and offering additional defensive protection.


 

Vulnerability to Counter-Attacks

The lone defensive midfielder may leave gaps behind when pressing high or during turnovers, making the team susceptible to counter-attacks. If the opposition quickly transitions from defense to offense, it can exploit the space left in front of the defensive line.


 

High Defensive Line Danger

Teams that use a high defensive line to compact the playing area may be vulnerable to through balls or long passes, particularly if the defensive midfielder is caught off guard. Fast opponents can take advantage of the space behind the defensive line.


 

Rigidity in Style

While the formation is versatile, teams that heavily rely on the 4-1-2-3 structure may become predictable. Opponents who effectively counter the wide play or neutralize the lone defensive midfielder can limit the team's effectiveness.


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-1-2-3-formation/

4-3-3 (5th Version) or the 3-4-3 (based on Chelsea's 2016-2017 squad)

 Antonio Conte's Chelsea
Conte won the 2016 -17 Premier League and FA Cup using a 3-4-3 with Diego Costa supported by two inside forwards (below). Chelsea’s attackers would often start wide and then either dribble infield or make penetrating runs off the ball in behind. He often used a combative midfield pairing in N’Golo Kanté and Nemanja Matic, although Cesc Fàbregas provided a more technical option when Conte wanted his team to dominate the ball. Marcos Alonso and Victor Moses provided width and height from wing-back, completing a front five when in possession. 


 The 3-4-3 provides good balance between attack and defense. It commits five outfield players to attacks, while the other five cover underneath and focus more on defending. 


Source Information: https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/3-4-3-formation-football-tactics-explained-tuchel-conte-pochettino-southgate/

4-4-2

 The 4-4-2 formation is a classic football formation that consists of four defenders, four midfielders, and two strikers. It is a balanced formation that can be used in both attacking and defensive strategies. The formation is usually set up with a back four consisting of two central defenders and two full-backs, a midfield diamond consisting of a defensive midfielder, two central midfielders, and an attacking midfielder, and two strikers up front. 


 This formation is known for its balance and flexibility, as it can be used to control possession or sit back and defend, depending on the team's tactical approach. 


 In attack, the two strikers work together to create scoring opportunities, with one usually playing as the target man and the other playing off of them. The attacking midfielder can provide support and create chances from midfield. The full-backs can also push forward to provide width in attack and create overlaps with the midfielders. 


 In defense, the midfield diamond can provide good coverage in the center of the pitch, making it difficult for the opposition to play through the middle. The full-backs can drop back to provide additional defensive support, while the central defenders can cover the center of the pitch and deal with any aerial threats. 


 

Wide Play

The four midfielders in the 4-4-2 formation provide width to the team's play, with the wingers stretching the opposition defense and creating space for the central midfielders and forwards.


 

Compactness

The 4-4-2 formation can be used to create a compact and organized defensive structure. The midfielders and forwards can work together to press the opposition high up the pitch, making it difficult for them to play out from the back.


 

Clear Roles and Responsibilities

The 4-4-2 formation is a simple system that provides clear roles and responsibilities for each player on the pitch. This can help players to understand their position and what is expected of them, leading to better teamwork and communication on the field.


 

Lack of Attacking Support

The 4-4-2 formation relies heavily on the two forwards to provide the attacking threat, which can sometimes leave them isolated and without support. If the midfielders are unable to get forward quickly enough to support the attack, it can make it difficult for the team to create chances.


 

Limited Tactical Flexibility

While the 4-4-2 formation is a flexible system, it can be limited in its tactical options compared to more fluid formations such as the 4-3-3 or 3-5-2. This can make it more difficult to adapt to different opponents or game situations.


 

High Physical Demands

The 4-4-2 formation can be physically demanding on the players, particularly the central midfielders who are required to cover a lot of ground and perform both attacking and defensive duties. This can lead to fatigue and injuries, particularly over a long season or in high-intensity games.


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-4-2-formation/

4-1-4-1 or 4-4-1-1

 The 4-1-4-1 formation is a tactical football setup that features four defenders, one defensive midfielder, four midfielders, and one forward. This formation emphasizes a balance between defense and attack, with a strong midfield presence that can control the flow of the game and create scoring opportunities while maintaining defensive solidity. It requires disciplined positioning, effective communication, and a good understanding of both attacking and defending principles. 


 

  • Four defenders: These players are typically split into two center backs and two fullbacks. Their main objective is to defend their own half of the field and prevent the opposing team from scoring.


 

  • One defensive midfielder: Positioned just in front of the back four, their primary responsibility is to shield the defense and prevent the opposition from advancing into dangerous positions. They also play a crucial role in initiating attacking moves by distributing the ball to the midfielders or the forward.


 

  • Four midfielders: This position group typically includes two central midfielders and two wide midfielders. Their primary objective is to control the midfield, linking the defense and attack. The central midfielders focus on maintaining possession, distributing the ball, and supporting both defensive and offensive actions. The wide midfielders aim to provide width, deliver crosses, and contribute to both attack and defense.

 

 

  • One forward: The lone forward is responsible for leading the attack and scoring goals. They need to be versatile, able to hold up the ball, create chances for themselves and their teammates, and apply pressure on the opposition's defense.



 

Flexibility

This formation can be adjusted to suit the team's strengths and weaknesses. For instance, the wide midfielders can drop back to support the defense when facing strong opponents, providing additional defensive cover.


 

Defensive Stability

The lone defensive midfielder acts as a shield in front of the back four, helping to prevent counterattacks and limit the opposition's scoring opportunities by breaking up play and distributing the ball effectively.


 

Counterattack Opportunities

The formation allows for quick transitions from defense to attack, with the midfielders supporting the lone forward in launching rapid counterattacks to catch the opposition off-guard.


 

Midfield Dominance

The 4-1-4-1 formation emphasizes control of the midfield, enabling the team to dominate possession and create numerous chances by outnumbering the opposition in the center of the park.


 

Need for Disciplined Midfielders

The four midfielders need to be disciplined in their positioning and defensive duties, otherwise, the team may be vulnerable to counterattacks.


 

Limited Attacking Options

With only one forward, the team might struggle to create scoring opportunities if the midfielders are unable to support the lone striker effectively, leading to isolation and a lack of goals.


 

Reliance on Individual Performances

The success of the formation can depend heavily on the individual performances of the players, particularly the central and wide midfielders, as well as the lone forward.


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-1-4-1-formation/

4-1-3-2

 The 4-1-3-2 formation is known as the "diamond" or "rhombus" formation, consisting of four defenders, one defensive midfielder, three attacking midfielders, and two forwards. 


 This formation emphasizes a balance between defense and attack, with a strong midfield presence that can control the flow of the game and create scoring opportunities for the forwards. It requires disciplined positioning and effective communication between players, as well as a good understanding of both attacking and defending principles.


  

  • Four Defenders: These players are typically split into two center backs and two fullbacks. Their main objective is to defend their own half of the field and prevent the opposing team from scoring. The fullbacks can also support the attack by providing width and delivering crosses into the box.


 

  • One Defensive Midfielder (CDM): Positioned just in front of the back four, this player's primary responsibility is to shield the defense and prevent the opposition from advancing into dangerous positions. The CDM may also initiate attacking moves by distributing the ball to the midfielders or forwards and can act as a pivot for switching play.


 

  • Three Midfielders (LM, CM, RM): The three midfielders consist of a Left Midfielder (LM), Central Midfielder (CM), and Right Midfielder (RM). The LM and RM provide width to the team's play, supporting both defensive and attacking efforts while delivering crosses into the penalty area. The CM plays a crucial role in the center, controlling the tempo of the game, linking defense and attack, and distributing the ball effectively. Together, these midfielders ensure fluid transitions between defense and attack, maintain possession, and create scoring opportunities for the forwards while also contributing to defensive responsibilities by pressing the opposition and providing cover for the fullbacks.


 

  • Two Forwards: These players are responsible for scoring goals and creating chances for themselves and their teammates. They may be split into roles such as a target striker and a second striker, with the former being more physical and the latter being more mobile. Their positioning and movement are key to breaking down the opposition's defense and capitalizing on scoring opportunities.


 

Strong Midfield Line

The diamond shape of the midfield allows for a compact and dynamic midfield presence, which can control the game by dictating the tempo and creating scoring opportunities for the forwards.


 

Flexibility

The formation can be adjusted to suit the team's strengths and weaknesses. For example, the attacking midfielders can be instructed to play more defensively if the team is facing a strong opponent.


 

Balanced Attacking Options

With two forwards and three attacking midfielders, the team has multiple attacking options that can create scoring opportunities from different areas of the field.


 

Defensive Stability

The lone defensive midfielder provides a solid shield in front of the back four, which can help prevent counterattacks and limit the opposition's scoring chances.


 

Counterattack Opportunities

With a strong midfield presence and quick forwards, the team can launch quick counterattacks to catch the opposition off-guard and score goals.


 

Partnership Between Strikers

The diamond formation often employs two strikers playing as a partnership, which can create a strong attacking threat and make it difficult for the opposition defense to mark both players effectively.


 

Need for Disciplined Midfielders

The three attacking midfielders need to be disciplined in their positioning and defensive duties, otherwise the team may be vulnerable to counterattacks.


 

Limited Attacking Options

If the team is unable to create scoring opportunities through the midfield or on the flanks, the forwards may become isolated and struggle to score goals.


 

Reliance on Individual Performances

The success of the formation can depend heavily on the individual performances of the players, particularly the attacking midfielders and forwards.


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-1-3-2-formation/

4-3-2-1 (based on AC Milan's 2007 Champions League Winning Squad)

   The 4-3-2-1 formation, often referred to as the "Christmas Tree" formation due to its shape on the field, is renowned for its attacking capabilities and the creation of numerous scoring opportunities. This configuration emphasizes creativity and goal-scoring, with three central midfielders supporting a trio of forwards. This setup includes four defenders, three central midfielders, and three forwards.


  Four Defenders - The backline comprises two center-backs and two fullbacks. Center-backs are tasked with marking the opposition's attackers and safeguarding the goal, requiring strength, speed, and excellent positioning and tackling skills. Fullbacks have dual responsibilities, contributing both defensively and offensively by overlapping with the midfield to provide width and support in attacks. 


 Three Midfielders - The midfield trio includes one defensive midfielder and two central midfielders. The defensive midfielder acts as a shield for the defense, disrupting opposition plays, while the central midfielders are vital for linking defense and attack, distributing the ball, and maintaining possession. 


 Three Forwards - The forward line features a left forward (LF), a central striker (ST), and a right forward (RF). The left and right forwards stretch the defense and deliver crosses, while the central striker serves as the primary goal-scorer. These forwards need to be clinical finishers, strong, and proficient in hold-up play to involve the midfielders. They should also excel at creating space and be comfortable with both feet. 


 The 4-3-2-1 formation provides a dynamic and balanced strategy, maximizing offensive potential while maintaining midfield control and defensive stability. It facilitates effective ball retention and distribution through the central midfielders, allowing the forwards to exploit spaces created by the opposition. The forwards offer essential width and depth, complicating the defense for the opponents. The defensive midfielder ensures stability by breaking up attacks and protecting the backline. This formation excels in generating various attacking options and keeping pressure on the opposition, though it requires disciplined defensive organization to counter wide attacks and rapid transitions. 


 

Carlo Ancelotti’s AC Milan

Carlo Ancelotti (who won the 2003 and 2007 Champions Leagues as Milan head coach) utilized a 4-3-2-1 shape during his spell at the San Siro. He based it around the influence of Andrea Pirlo as a central pivot in the midfield trio.

Pirlo was flanked by Gennaro Gattuso and Massimo Ambrosini, both of whom could press, duel and defend the central spaces when in a block, or jumping out to press. They also protected Pirlo’s receiving, and joined the attack to support the number 10s, Clarence Seedorf and Kaká. The latter was Milan’s main attacking outlet, joining the central forward of either Alberto Gilardino, Filippo Inzaghi or Ronaldo.


 

Flexibility

The formation allows for flexibility in attack, with the attacking midfielders given the freedom to roam and create space for the striker.


 

Defensive Stability

The defensive midfielder provides added protection for the defense, making it harder for the opposition to break through.


 

Possession Play

The midfield trio is well-equipped to dominate possession and control the center of the pitch, making it difficult for the opposition to get a foothold in the game.


 

Lack of Width

The attacking midfielders tend to play narrow, which can make it difficult to create space on the wings and provide crosses for the striker.


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-3-2-1-formation/


Source Information: https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/4-3-2-1-formation-football-tactics/

4-1-2-1-2 or 4-3-1-2

 The 4-3-1-2 formation, also known as the "diamond" formation, is a popular tactical formation. This formation is known for its compactness and ability to control the midfield. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 4-3-1-2 formation, its strengths and weaknesses, and how it can be used effectively. The 4-3-1-2 formation can be considered a balanced formation in terms of attacking and defensive play. 


 Four Defenders (LB, CB, CB, RB) - The backline features two center-backs and two full-backs. Center-backs are tasked with marking the opposition's forwards and protecting the goal, while full-backs play a dual role in defense and attack, frequently overlapping with the midfield to add width and support offensive plays. 


 Three Central Midfielders (CDM, CM, CM) - This formation's midfield trio includes one defensive midfielder and two central midfielders. The defensive midfielder serves as a protective barrier for the defense, disrupting opposition attacks. The central midfielders handle ball distribution, maintain possession, and connect the defense with the attack, ensuring smooth transitions. 


 One Attacking Midfielder (CAM) - Situated at the peak of the diamond, the attacking midfielder is key to generating scoring chances. This player operates in advanced areas, bridging the midfield and the forwards, and is primarily responsible for playmaking and providing support to the strikers. 


 Two Strikers (ST) - The forward line comprises two center-forwards dedicated to scoring goals. Positioned centrally, they leverage the creative support of the attacking midfielder and the width provided by the full-backs and midfielders, thus enhancing the team's attacking dynamics. 


 The 4-3-1-2 formation is lauded for its midfield dominance and compact, balanced structure. Its diamond shape facilitates efficient ball retention and distribution, with the attacking midfielder serving as a key creative outlet. Defensively, it offers stability through a dedicated defensive midfielder and a unified backline. While strong centrally, it demands careful management to mitigate vulnerabilities from wide attacks and transitional play. 


 

Control of the midfield

The diamond shape in midfield allows for a compact and organized midfield that can dominate possession and control the center of the pitch. This can make it difficult for the opposition to play through the midfield and create chances.


 

Defensive solidity

The 4-3-1-2 formation has a solid defensive foundation with three midfielders and four defenders, which can make it difficult for the opposition to score goals. The midfielders can also track back and provide cover for the defense, making it harder for the opposition to penetrate the defensive lines.


 

Flexibility

The 4-3-1-2 formation can be adapted to different situations during a match, such as switching to a more defensive or attacking style of play depending on the score line or the opposition's tactics.


 

Creativity

The attacking midfielder in the 4-3-1-2 formation plays a key role in creating chances for the strikers. The attacking midfielder can use their creativity and vision to unlock the opposition's defense and provide scoring opportunities for the strikers.


 

Overloading the Center

The diamond shape in midfield can create numerical superiority in the center of the pitch, which can create space for the strikers to exploit. This can make it difficult for the opposition to defend against the team's attacks.


 

Effective Against 4-4-2 Formation

The 4-3-1-2 formation can be effective against teams that play with a 4-4-2 formation, as the diamond shape in midfield can outnumber the opposition in the center of the pitch and create space for the strikers to exploit.


 

Vulnerability on the Flanks

The diamond shape in midfield can leave the flanks exposed and vulnerable to opposition attacks. This can be a problem if the opposition has fast wingers or full-backs who can exploit the space on the flanks.


 

Lack of Width

The diamond shape in midfield can also limit the team's attacking options on the wings, as the midfielders tend to focus on the center of the pitch. This can make it difficult for the team to create scoring opportunities from crosses or cutbacks from the wings.


 

Dependence on the Attacking Midfielder

The attacking midfielder plays a crucial role in the 4-3-1-2 formation, as they are responsible for creating chances for the strikers. If the attacking midfielder is marked out of the game or underperforms, the team may struggle to create scoring opportunities.


 

Lack of Defensive Midfield Cover

With only one defensive midfielder in the 4-3-1-2 formation, the team may be vulnerable to counterattacks or opposition attacks that bypass the midfield. The defensive midfielder may also be overloaded and struggle to cover the entire midfield.


 

Difficulty in Transitioning from Defense to Attack

The diamond shape in midfield can make it difficult for the team to transition from defense to attack quickly, as the midfielders may need time to reposition themselves and provide passing options for the defense.


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-3-1-2-formation/

2-3-2-3 (Metodo)

2-3-2-3 (Metodo)

 The 2-3-2-3 formation, also known as the "Metodo" formation was devised by Vittorio Pozzo, coach of the Italian national team in the 1930s. The system was based on the 2–3–5 formation, Pozzo realized that his half-backs would need some more support in order to be superior to the opponents' midfield, so he pulled two of the forwards to just in front of midfield, creating a 2–3–2–3 formation.  


 This created a stronger defense than previous systems, as well as allowing effective counter-attacks. The Italian national team won back-to-back World Cups in 1934 and 1938 using this system. It has been argued that Pep Guardiola's Barcelona and Bayern Munich used a modern version of this formation. This formation is also similar to the standard in table football, featuring two defenders, five midfielders and three strikers (which cannot be altered as the "players" are mounted on axles). 


Source Information: https://www.storiespreschool.com/soccer_formation2323.html

4-2-3-1

2-3-2-3 (Metodo)

 The 4-2-3-1 formation, is a versatile and widely adopted tactical setup which provides a balanced structure that combines defensive solidity with potent attacking capabilities. Known for its adaptability, the formation is often regarded as both defensive and attacking, offering a well-rounded approach to the game. Comprising four defenders, two defensive midfielders, three attacking midfielders, and a lone striker, the 4-2-3-1 formation creates a formidable presence on the field. 


 Defenders - The defensive quartet typically includes two central defenders and two fullbacks. Their primary duty is to safeguard the goal, showcasing strong defensive skills, positional awareness, and the ability to initiate plays from the back. Fullbacks are crucial for providing width in attack, making overlapping runs, and delivering crosses into the box. 


 Defensive Midfielders - Positioned just in front of the defense, the two defensive midfielders act as shields, breaking up opposition plays and distributing the ball to initiate attacks. They must possess excellent tackling, interception, and passing abilities, serving as the link between the defense and the attacking midfielders. 


 Attacking Midfielders - The trio of attacking midfielders operates just behind the lone striker, emphasizing creativity and playmaking. These players need to be technically skilled, possess vision, and excel in passing. They have the dual role of creating goal-scoring opportunities and providing support to the lone striker. 


 Striker - The lone striker spearheads the attack, aiming to convert opportunities into goals. This player must be a clinical finisher, capable of holding up play to involve the attacking midfielders. The striker's movement and ability to exploit defensive vulnerabilities are vital for the team's success. 


 The 4-2-3-1 formation is praised for its flexibility, allowing teams to adjust their style of play based on the strengths of the squad and the tactical requirements of a given match. Whether focusing on a possession-based approach or seeking quick counter-attacks, the formation provides a solid foundation for teams aiming to balance defensive resilience with attacking flair. 


 

Defensive Solidity

The two defensive midfielders provide a solid shield in front of the defensive line, making it difficult for the opposition to penetrate through the center of the pitch. The four defenders and two defensive midfielders create a compact defensive unit, making it challenging for opponents to find spaces and exploit defensive weaknesses.


 

Control in Midfield

With two central midfielders and an attacking midfielder in the "number 10" role, the 4-2-3-1 formation allows a team to control the midfield. This is crucial for dictating the tempo of the game and retaining possession.


 

Versatility in Attack

The formation allows for a versatile attacking setup. The lone striker up front can benefit from the support of three attacking midfielders who have the freedom to roam and create goal-scoring opportunities. The wide attacking players (wingers) provide width, stretching the opposition's defense and creating space for central players to exploit.


 

Counterattacking Potential

The 4-2-3-1 formation is well-suited for quick counterattacks. The defensive structure provides stability, and with fast wingers and a mobile striker, teams can transition rapidly from defense to attack.


 

Vulnerability to Counterattacks

The attacking nature of the formation, with full-backs pushing forward and midfielders joining the attack, can leave the team susceptible to counterattacks. If possession is lost high up the pitch, there might be space behind the defensive line.


 

Isolation of the Striker

The lone striker up front may become isolated if not adequately supported by the attacking midfielders. If the team struggles to connect the midfield with the striker, it can limit goal-scoring opportunities.


 

Overreliance on Full-backs

The full-backs in a 4-2-3-1 formation are often expected to contribute both defensively and offensively. Depending too much on full-backs for width can lead to fatigue and defensive vulnerabilities when they are caught out of position.


 

Midfield Overrun

Against teams with a strong central midfield or numerical superiority in the middle of the park, the 4-2-3-1 may struggle to control possession, and the defensive midfielders may find themselves overwhelmed.


 

Defensive Gaps in Transition

When transitioning from attack to defense, the quick movement of attacking players can leave gaps in the defensive structure. If the opposition can exploit these gaps, it may lead to defensive vulnerabilities.


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-2-3-1-formation/

3-5-1-1

 The 3-5-1-1 formation offers a good balance between defense and attack. The three central defenders provide a solid foundation for the defense, while the five midfielders provide cover and support. The attacking midfielder and striker offer creativity and goalscoring ability in the final third. The flexibility of the midfield allows the team to adapt to different situations and oppositions, making it a popular choice for many top teams. 


 

Defensive Solidity

The 3-5-1-1 formation provides a strong defensive foundation, with three central defenders and five midfielders providing cover and protection for the goal. This makes it difficult for the opposition to break down and score goals, particularly if the full-backs are instructed to stay back and provide extra cover.


 

Flexibility

The five midfielders in the 3-5-1-1 formation can be deployed in a variety of ways, depending on the strengths and weaknesses of the opposition. They can be used to control the midfield, provide width in attack, or offer extra support to the defense. The attacking midfielder can also move around the pitch to create space and provide options for their teammates.


 

Creativity

The attacking midfielder in the 3-5-1-1 formation is often the creative force of the team, responsible for linking the midfield and attack and creating scoring opportunities for the striker and other attacking players. This player is usually a skilled and intelligent player with excellent vision, passing, and dribbling abilities.


 

Goalscoring Potential

With one striker and an attacking midfielder supporting them, the 3-5-1-1 formation can offer a potent attacking threat. The lone striker must be able to create chances for themselves as well as their teammates, making intelligent runs and finishing with precision.


 

Control of the Midfield

The five midfielders in the 3-5-1-1 formation can provide a dominant presence in the midfield, controlling possession and dictating the tempo of the game. This can make it difficult for the opposition to get a foothold in the game and create scoring opportunities.


 

Weakness on the Flanks

With only three defenders, the 3-5-1-1 formation can be vulnerable to attacks down the flanks (the sides of the football pitch), particularly if the full-backs push forward to support the attack. This can leave the defense exposed and create opportunities for the opposition to cross the ball into the box.


 

Limited Width in Attack

While the five midfielders can provide width in attack, the lack of traditional wingers in the 3-5-1-1 formation can make it difficult to stretch the opposition defense and create space in the final third. This can make it harder to create clear-cut chances and score goals.


 

Reliance on the Attacking Midfielder

The success of the 3-5-1-1 formation often depends on the performance of the attacking midfielder. If this player is marked out of the game or unable to perform to their usual standards, the team may struggle to create scoring opportunities and break down the opposition defense.


 

Limited Defensive Cover

While the five midfielders can provide defensive cover, the lone striker in the 3-5-1-1 formation is often asked to press the opposition defense and disrupt their attacks. This can leave the team vulnerable to counterattacks and place additional pressure on the central defenders to provide cover.


 

Complex Tactical Requirements

The 3-5-1-1 formation requires a high degree of tactical understanding and discipline from the players. It can be challenging to execute effectively, particularly against well-organized opposition defenses.


Argentina at Mexico 86

 The 3-5-1-1 is just an adaptation of the 3-5-2 formation, with one of the two forward players dropping deeper into the number ten role. The Argentina national team under Carlos Bilardo were supposedly the first major team to use the 3-5-2 during the 1986 World Cup. 


 The decision aimed to allow star forward Diego Maradona more freedom to roam and have an impact on the game. He did just that as the South American nation lifted the World Cup, with the then-Napoli star being the catalyst.


  In more recent years, the 3511 has been used by Manchester City's master tactician, Pep Guardiola, as he aimed to control the centre of the pitch. 


 Graham Potter successfully employed the system during his time with Brighton Hove Albion, turning the Seagulls into one of the best passing teams in the Premier League. 


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/3-5-1-1-formation/


Source Information:

https://www.thehighertempopress.com/football-formations/3-5-1-1/

3-3-1-3

 Marcelo Bielsa and The 3-3-1-3

Bielsa has admitted being heavily influenced by the Netherlands sides of the 1970s, and developed an early style inspired by the Total Football philosophy of Rinus Michels, where sides would regularly interchange between 4-3-3 and 3-4-3 formations.


Bielsa is now famed for using a flexible 3-3-1-3 system with a firm emphasis on fluidity. His players are tasked with switching positions with teammates seamlessly, using their mobility to outrun and overload opponents in key areas. His trademark 3-3-1-3 can easily morph into a 5-4-1 with wing-backs and wide forwards tucking into shape without the ball. Bielsa has also adopted a fluid 4-2-3-1 system at Bilbao and Marseille.


 

High Defensive Line

Bielsa’s typical 3-3-1-3 sees his three centre-backs play a high defensive line, splitting wide and assisting with ball retention. The players in front of the back three will interchanging between each other, wing-backs will underlap and push into midfield and help to form formidable six-pronged attacking phases.


 This high risk strategy requires ball-playing centre-halves comfortable with bringing the ball forward and distributing it carefully. One of Bielsa’s defensive ideals is to always have one more spare defender than the opposition’s front line. His sides regularly switch between a back three (against two forwards) and a back four line against a lone striker. 


 

Midfielders Playing in Defense

Bielsa has an unusual habit of preferring to deploy midfielders in his defense, in the belief that their distribution would be better and their natural positioning would take them higher up the pitch and help squeeze opponents. Bielsa sees this is as vital to supporting build-up play and assisting ball retention. The obvious downside to this is when converted midfielders are forced to defend on the back foot. Javi Martinez is a prime example of Bielsa’s method working successfully. Bielsa raised a few eyebrows by deploying a World Cup winning midfielder with Spain as a centre-back.

Again, we saw plenty of this in Bielsa's first season at Elland Road, with Kalvin Phillips dropping back into defense.


 

Bielsa has also sometimes chosen to play midfielders as full-backs, with Gjanni Alioski, Stuart Dallas and Jamie Shackleton examples of this trait during his debut campaign in West Yorkshire.

The Argentine prefers the way they underlap rather than overlap which strengthens the midfield, while his wide forwards stretch the shape of opponents nearer the touchline.


 

Fluidity and Rotation

Fluidity and rotation are at the core of Bielsa’s style of play. Players will be expected to play in a variety of positions, interchanging with teammates and taking up temporary positions during a game. Playing with a 3-3-1-3 is risky as it potentially leaves huge gaps and avenues for opponents to exploit, which is why the Argentine head coach wants his players to play with flexibility.


 

Bielsa’s 3-3-1-3 requires a deep lying playmaker or number 5 to sit and protect the defensive line. The role is a huge responsibility, held by a player of technical quality, terrific distribution and ball-winning capabilities. The holding midfielder will sit and protect, but also act as a catalyst for starting attacking phases, recycling possession and spraying passes out wide to the wing-backs and wide forwards.

This is the role Phillips made his own last season.


 

The Role of the Enganche

The Enganche or advanced playmaker role is fundamental to the success of Bielsa’s system. The number 10 is expected to operate centrally deep inside the opposition half, linking the wing-backs and midfield with attack. He act as the focal point for many attacking phases, attempting through balls, take-ons, shots on sight and switching play. Bielsa will drill his players to form triangles to overload the opposition in specific areas of the pitch, and the enganche’s mobility plays an integral role in its success.


 

Bielsa’s Attack

Attacking is the primary focus of Bielsa's football. Passing and movement is made at a rapid pace, and requires a substantial amount of mobility to make it work. Bielsa will only want to recruit players who possess enough pace, intelligence, quick-feet and technical quality to make it work.

Bielsa will always use three forwards made up of a central attacker to lead the line and two wide forwards on either side. The Enganche, wing-backs and runners from deep positions will collectively support attacking phases and look to capitalize on overloads in wide areas. Bielsa prefers to play with a strong and physical number nine with technical quality. Bielsa often asks his centre-backs to play the ball into the feet of his central forward, who would hold up play and look for support to adopt the correct positions. 


Source Information: https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/marcelo-bielsa-3313-formation-leeds-16682486

4-5-1 (1st Version) or 5-4-1

4-5-1 (1st Version) or 5-4-1

 The 4-5-1 formation is well-known for its defensive strength and tactical discipline, as well as its strategic versatility in both the defensive and offensive phases of play. This formation consists of four defenders, five midfielders, and a lone striker. 


 

Defenders - The defensive line consists of two central defenders and two fullbacks. Central defenders are responsible for organizing the defense, marking opposing attackers, and preventing goal scoring opportunities. Fullbacks provide defensive protection while also contributing to attacking phases through width, overlapping runs, and crossing into the box.

 

 Midfielders - The midfield consists of a core trio (Alternatively, one CM and two CAMs) and two wide midfielders (on the winges). A defensive midfielder is frequently assigned to guard the defense, disrupt opposition plays, and initiate counter-attacks. Along with the defensive midfielder, there may be a box-to-box midfielder who helps both defensively and offensively by covering ground, winning possession, and assisting in attacks. The third centre midfielder usually serves as an attacking playmaker, coordinating the team's offensive moves and making vital passes to create scoring opportunities. 


 Wide midfielders provide defensive and offensive support from their positions on the flanks. These players are required to track back and assist the fullbacks in defending against opposition wingers while also providing width in attack, stretching the opposition defense, and delivering crosses into the box to create scoring opportunities. 


 Striker - The lone striker leads the team's offensive attempts. This player must have strength, speed, and technical skill to keep the ball in play, bring teammates into the game, and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Furthermore, the striker must be skilled at pushing the opposing defense and generating counter-attacks once control is regained. 


 This formation provides teams with a strong defensive structure while also providing for versatility in midfield and attack. It can be tailored to a variety of tactical methods, such as focusing on counter-attacking football, controlling possession, or pushing high up the pitch. The 4-5-1 system allows teams to strike a balance between defensive durability and the potential to exploit opponents' weaknesses during transitions. 


 

Goal-scoring Galore

Consider this: a lone striker leading the charge, supported by a platoon of midfielders ready to wreak havoc on the opponent defense. This formation is a recipe for goal-scoring frenzy, with a constant bombardment of attacks keeping the opposing custodian on his toes.


 

Midfield Mayhem

A bunch of midfielders are poised to dominate the pitch. It's like having your own midfield army, dominating centre regions, winning battles, and controlling play like midfield lords.


 

Build-Up Bonanza

The team's two defensive midfielders provide many opportunities for build-up play. Whether they prefer to play it cool and calm from behind or unleash lightning-fast counter-attacks, this shape allows teams to change their tactics on the fly.


 

Solid Structure

The 4-5-1 formation balances defence and offence, making it a rock-solid structure. It's like having a fortress at the back while unleashing attack missiles in front, leaving opponents puzzled and wondering how to crack the code.


 

Transition Trickery

This configuration excels at transitions. With a midfield powerhouse ready to pounce on loose balls and turn defense into attack in the blink of an eye, the team can switch gears faster than a Formula 1 car on race day.


 

Counter-attack Carnage

Beware the terrifying counterattack! When midfielders and fullbacks press forward in pursuit of goals, they risk leaving the defense vulnerable to lightning-fast counterattacks. Quick changes by the opposition could catch the team off guard, resulting in defensive pandemonium.


 

Central Congestion Crisis

With so many centre midfielders and a lone striker crowding the middle of the pitch, the squad may struggle to traverse dense defensive lines. Breaking down densely packed defenses becomes a Herculean endeavor, limiting the efficacy of the centre attacking midfielder.


 

Individual Performance Pressure

The effectiveness of the 4-5-1 system is primarily dependent on the individual brilliance of key players, particularly the central offensive midfielder and wingers. If these key players falter or sustain injuries, the team's attacking prowess may suffer, leaving them trapped in the midfield.


 

Stamina Struggles

Running the show in a 4-5-1 formation demands Herculean levels of stamina, particularly from fullbacks and wingers who are expected to sprint up and down the flanks tirelessly. As the play progresses, weariness might set in, resulting in subpar performances and leaving the team vulnerable to late-game collapses.


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/4-5-1-formation/

4-5-1 (2nd Version) or 5-4-1

3-2-5 or 3-2-2-3 (WM Formation)

4-5-1 (1st Version) or 5-4-1

 

Jürgen Klopp’s compact block at Liverpool


Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool were associated with incisive attacking and aggressive counter-pressing, but he had often used a 4-5-1 when a more compact block is required.

In this shape, Liverpool’s number eights have had licence to jump out, while the wingers – especially Mo Salah – had been key outlets on attacking transitions. As the 4-5-1 expands, and the wingers advance, space had been created for Trent Alexander-Arnold to move inside from right-back. 


 

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United mid-block

Eddie Howe helped to transform Newcastle with an impressive 4-5-1 mid-block. In this shape, Howe’s wide midfielders had worked back to stop full-backs Kieran Trippier and Dan Burn being overloaded.


Source Information: https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/4-5-1-formation-football-tactics/

3-2-5 or 3-2-2-3 (WM Formation)

3-2-5 or 3-2-2-3 (WM Formation)

3-2-5 or 3-2-2-3 (WM Formation)

 The WM system, known for the shapes described by the positions of the players, was created in the mid-1920s by Herbert Chapman of Arsenal to counter a change in the offside law in 1925. The change had reduced the number of opposition players that attackers needed between themselves and the goal-line from three to two. This led to the introduction of a centre-back to stop the opposing centre-forward, and tried to balance defensive and offensive playing. The formation became so successful that by the late-1930s most English clubs had adopted the WM. 


 

Retrospectively, the WM has either been described as a 3–2–5 or as a 3–4–3, or more precisely a 3–2–2–3 reflecting the letters which symbolized it. The gap in the centre of the formation between the two wing halves and the two inside forwards allowed Arsenal to counter-attack effectively. The W-M was subsequently adapted by several English sides, but none could apply it in quite the same way Chapman had. This was mainly due to the comparative rarity of players like Alex James in the English game. He was one of the earliest playmakers in the history of the game, and the hub around which Chapman's Arsenal revolved. In 2016, new manager Patrick Vieira, a former Arsenal player, brought the WM formation to New York City FC.


Source Information: https://www.storiespreschool.com/soccer_formation_wm.html

3-5-2

3-2-5 or 3-2-2-3 (WM Formation)

3-2-5 or 3-2-2-3 (WM Formation)

 The 3-5-2 formation is similar to 5–3–2 except that the two wingmen are oriented more towards the attack. Because of this, the central midfielder tends to remain further back in order to help prevent counter-attacks. It differs from the classical 3–5–2 of the WW by having a non-staggered midfield. It was used for the first time at international level by the Argentine coach Carlos Bilardo. Terry Venables notably used this formation (along with a diamond midfield) during England's campaign in Euro 96, with Gareth Southgate or Paul Ince acting as defensive midfielder. Many teams also use a central attacking midfielder and two defensive midfielders, so the midfielders form a W formation. 


 Sebastião Lazaroni also used this formation as manager of Brazil during their unsuccessful 1990 FIFA World Cup campaign. Although it had fallen out of favor with most coaches who now prefer four at the back, it has recently had a renaissance in both club and international football. At club level, it has been effectively used by Juventus coach Antonio Conte, under whom Juventus won three back-to-back scudettos between 2012 and 2014, or more recently by Louis Van Gaal at Manchester United. 


 At international level, it has been used as an alternative formation on two notable occasions to nullify the challenge of possession football used by the Spanish national side. Cesare Prandelli used it for the Italy's 1–1 draw with Spain in the group stage of UEFA Euro 2012, with some commentators seeing Daniele De Rossi as a sweeper. The Netherlands used it to greater effect against Spain during the group stage of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, completing a 5-1 win. This was successful in minimizing the Dutch weaknesses (their inexperience in defense) and their strengths (their world-class forwards in Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben). 


Source Information: https://www.storiespreschool.com/soccer_formation352.html

The 4-3-3 Further Explained

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The Goalkeepers (GK) (Keepers) - No.1

Line/Shot-Stopping Keepers

 As the antithesis to the ‘Sweeper Keeper’, the "Shot Stopper Keeper" typically situates themselves in between the posts, stays within their eighteen yard box, and relies on their positioning to stop the ball from finding the back of the net. The best ‘Shot Stoppers’ are able to use their cat-like reflexes and expert positioning to cause the opposition misery in front of goal, which offers modern managers credence to continue to deploy them in goal despite their outdated approach.  


 The ‘Shot Stopper’ may represent a dying breed of no. 1’s, particularly when looking for keepers under the age of 30. It’s very possible that ‘Sweeper Keepers’ of today will in time become quintessential ‘Shot Stoppers’ as they age out of the game and become more limited with their physical capabilities. But for now, ‘Shot Stoppers’ are a rarity, and are typically found in older goalkeepers. 


Famous Line/Shot-Stopper Keepers include:

Iker Casillas

 Peter Schmeichel  

Gianluigi Buffon

 Petr Čech 


Source Information: https://themastermindsite.com/2022/04/30/what-is-a-shot-stopper/#:~:text=As%20the%20antithesis%20to%20the,the%20back%20of%20the%20net.

Sweeper Keepers

 A Sweeper keeper regularly rushes out to clear up danger between themselves and their defenders, but they also often contribute to possession phases, receiving the ball and distributing it with calmness and precision, very much like a traditional outfield sweeper. They can even get involved in passing patterns higher up the pitch, acting as an extra defender and giving their team numerical advantages. 


 In a typical game, a sweeper keeper will complete a large number of recoveries, tackles, interceptions, clearances, and (in their own box) catches away from their own goal. They are proactive players, always alert and on the front foot. This aspect of their game, and their skills on the ball, mean sweeper keepers can also be used to help build up possession from the back, break opposition lines and defensive structures, and spark dangerous attacks and counter-attacks. 


 The opposite of the sweeper keeper is the traditional shot stopper, who while commanding and powerful around their own goal, will be more rigid in their positioning and will tend to let defenders handle situations before the ball gets to them. Think of David De Gea, an archetypal goal-line keeper — players like this are about as far away from a sweeper keeper as you can get in the modern game. 


 

Strengths of the Sweeper-Keeper


  • Ball at Their Feet: Must be comfortable and confident with the ball at their feet, acting as an extra defender on the field, and to help their team maintain possession of the ball
  • Ball-handling Skills: Must have excellent ball-handling skills, which means they can act as a first line of defense by intercepting or clearing the ball before the opposition can launch a counterattack. This skill also enables them to initiate attacking plays by quickly distributing the ball to teammates
  • High Level of Mobility: Often more mobile than traditional goalkeepers. They are comfortable moving out of their goal area to provide additional defensive support, which can help to relieve pressure on the team’s defenders
  • Tactical Awareness: Requires a high level of tactical awareness to be effective. They need to be able to read the game well and anticipate the opposition’s moves, as well as be aware of their own team’s attacking opportunities
  • Ability to Start Counter-attacks: Have the ability to start counter-attacks by quickly releasing the ball to teammates after making a save or intercepting a pass. This ability can catch the opposition off guard and create scoring opportunities for the Sweeper Keeper’s team
  • Communication Skills: Needs to be a good communicator, as they often need to direct their teammates and organize the defense from a position outside of the traditional goalkeeper area.



 

Weaknesses of the Sweeper-Keeper


  • Risk of Mistakes: When venturing far from the goal line, it exposes the team to the risk of errors. If the goalkeeper misjudges a situation or makes a poor decision when dealing with the ball, it can lead to turnovers or even concede goals
  • Vulnerability to Long Balls: By moving out of the goal area, the Sweeper-Keeper leaves the net temporarily unattended. Opponents who recognize this can exploit the space by playing long balls or attempting shots from a distance, potentially catching the goalkeeper off-guard
  • Lack of Defensive Cover: When out of position, there may be a temporary gap in the defense, leaving the team vulnerable to through balls or quick counterattacks. If the opposing team can exploit this gap, they may create scoring opportunities
  • Communication and Coordination: The role requires effective communication and coordination with the defensive line. If there is a lack of understanding or communication breakdown, it can lead to confusion and defensive disorganization, creating openings for the opposition
  • Greater Pressure and Expectations: Often expected to excel not only in shot-stopping but also in playing the ball with their feet and initiating attacks. The added pressure to perform both defensive and offensive duties can sometimes affect their decision-making or introduce added stress.



 

Famous Sweeper-Keepers


  • Manuel Neuer: The German goalkeeper, who played for Bayern Munich and the German national team, is renowned for his Sweeper-Keeper style. Neuer’s ability to play as a “sweeper” outside his penalty area, his ball-playing skills, and his quick decision-making have made him one of the most influential goalkeepers ever.
  • René Higuita: The Colombian goalkeeper, known for his flamboyant style, popularized the Sweeper-Keeper role in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Higuita was famous for his ability to dribble past opponents and execute audacious plays, including his scorpion kick save during a friendly match against England in 1995.
  • Lev Yashin: Legendary Russian goalkeeper Lev Yashin remains the only goalkeeper in the history of the game to win the Ballon d'Or, a testament to his outstanding ability. Nicknamed the "Black Spider" or "Black Panther", the Soviet Union and Dynamo Moscow player kept a remarkable 270 clean sheets in his career, and saved an extraordinary 150 penalties.  However, he coupled this shot-stopping ability with a revolutionary approach to the goalkeeper role that saw this position incorporated into outfield play far more, with freedom given to Yashin to come out and sweep up attacks, interacting with defenders and contributing immensely to the dominance of Dynamo Moscow at club level in the 1950s and 1960s. 
  • Jorge Campos: The Mexican goalkeeper, known for his vibrant and colorful jerseys, was not only an exceptional shot-stopper but also a Sweeper-Keeper. Campos was known for his agility, quickness off his line, and his ability to initiate attacks with his precise distribution.


Source Information: https://soccer-formation.com/article/sweeper-keeper-revolutionizing-soccer/


Source Information: https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/sweeper-keepers/


Ball Playing Keepers

The Ball Playing Keeper is a type of keeper which has an excellent reading of the game and is confident with the ball at his feet. He possesses a wide passing range and the ability to communicate effectively with his defenders and teammates. In the build-up, he can be used to outnumber the opposing offensive line when his defense is put under pressure. 


 Ball-playing ‘keepers normally start moves off by passing out to a centre-back or to a dropping pivot player. They can also send short crosses to a fullback or wide midfielder. The ‘keeper must adjust his position and always be ready to receive a back pass and keep the game flowing. 


 This style of football is common in more developed teams with high-quality players. Teams with a more pragmatic approach prefer to deploy a line/shot-stopping goalkeeper. 


 Playing with a modern goalkeeper comes with risks. Most significant of all, playing out from the back through the goalkeeper increases the chances of losing the ball close to goal, which in turn increases the chances of conceding a goal following a misplaced pass. 


 “You can never take away a person’s vision, and goalkeeping at a high level is largely a question of vision. If everybody moves forward, you need an extra defender, so the goalkeeper has to be able to play as well.” – Johan Cruyff. 


Famous Ball Playing Keepers include:

  • Emiliano Martinez
  • Ederson
  • Alisson Becker
  • Thibaut Courtois 


Source Information: https://totalfootballanalysis.com/article/tactical-analysis-the-importance-of-modern-goalkeepers-tactical-analysis-tactics

The Defense - Types of Defenders

Center Back (CB) - No.4 and No.5

 Center-backs hold one of the most critical positions on the field, often being the last line of defense before the goalkeeper. The center-back is primarily tasked with blocking the opposition’s forward players, intercepting passes, and winning headers during both open play and set pieces. 


 A center-back needs a distinctive combination of physical strength, aerial prowess, positional awareness, and tackling ability. Furthermore, they often require excellent communication skills to organize the defense and maintain the team’s defensive shape. 


 In modern football, the role of the center-back has evolved to include aspects of ball distribution and initiating attacks from the back. This requires additional technical skills. 


 What are the benefits of playing with a modern centre-back?
A modern centre-back offers control and passing options in build-up, which helps a team dominate possession and create more chances. With the change to the goal-kick rule ahead of the 2019/20 season, centre-backs who are good on the ball can also now receive a pass from their goalkeeper inside their own penalty area. 


 A centre-back with a good passing range can help link into the attacking players quickly and in different ways. The best centre-backs can adapt their passing depending on the opposition’s defensive strategy, whether they press or sit back in a block. A centre-back who steps forward with the ball can also create numerical overloads in midfield. This can, in turn, help free up teammates further forwards. 


 What are the disadvantages to playing with a modern centre-back?
Mistakes or individual errors when playing out from the back can lead to big chances for the opposition. The closer to goal the opposition wins the ball, the better the opportunities they can create to score. 


 The modern centre-back role requires versatile players who can affect the game in several ways. If they are not able to perform all aspects of their required role to a high standard – both in and out of possession – the team’s approach can suffer. 


Famous Center Backs include:

  • Bobby Moore
  • Franco Baresi
  • Fabio Cannavaro
  • Paolo Maldini


Source Information: https://soccer-formation.com/article/mastering-center-back-position-soccer/


Source Information: https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/modern-centre-back-football-tactics-explained-van-dijk-ramos-dias-bonucci/

Left Full Back (LFB) or Left Back (LB) - No.3

 The left back, also known as the left fullback, holds a vital position in the defensive line. Positioned on the left side of the field, they form the first line of defense against the opponent's attacking moves. This role requires a unique blend of defensive prowess, tactical awareness, and an ability to contribute to the team's offensive efforts. 


 

Defensive Duties: The Guardian of the Left Flank

One of the primary responsibilities of a left back is to thwart the opponent's attacks down the opposition's right flank (which is the team's left flank). This entails marking opposing wingers, intercepting passes, and making well-timed tackles. A left back must be quick, agile, and possess excellent positional sense to effectively neutralize the opposition's threats.


 

Overlapping Runs: Adding a Dimension to Attack

In modern football, fullbacks are expected to contribute to the team's offensive endeavors. This involves making overlapping runs down the left wing to provide width and create additional attacking options. A proficient left back possesses a blend of speed, stamina, and crossing ability to execute these runs effectively.


 

Ball Distribution and Playmaking

A left back is also tasked with initiating attacks from the back. This demands exceptional passing skills and the ability to read the game. A left back's precise distribution of the ball can set the pace for the team's build-up play, allowing them to control the flow of the game.


 

Tactical Versatility: Adapting to Different Formations

Left backs are often required to adapt to various tactical setups employed by their team. Whether playing in a flat back four, a wingback role in a 3-5-2 formation, or even as part of a back three, a left back must be tactically astute and versatile enough to excel in different systems.


 

Key Attributes of an Elite Left Back

To excel in the left back position, a player should possess a specific set of attributes:

  1. Pace and Agility: The ability to cover ground quickly and change direction is essential for a left back.
  2. Defensive Acumen: Sound tackling, marking, and reading of the game are crucial for a left back's defensive effectiveness.
  3. Passing Accuracy: A left back should be capable of accurate short and long-range passing to initiate attacks.
  4. Stamina: The position demands high levels of endurance, as left backs are expected to contribute both defensively and offensively throughout the match.
  5. Crossing Ability: A left back's proficiency in delivering accurate crosses into the box can be a potent weapon in the team's attacking arsenal.


Famous Left Backs include:

Paul Breitner

Ruud Krol

Roberto Carlos

Ashley Cole


Source Information: 

https://www.cupello.com/blog/left-backs

Right Full Back (RFB) or Right Back (RB) - No.2

 Defensively, the right back is tasked with critical responsibilities such as marking and tracking opposition wingers, intercepting passes, and providing cover for the center-backs. This requires keen spatial awareness, impeccable timing, and a knack for reading the game. 


 Tactical acumen is equally vital. A right back must maintain the defensive line, ensuring it remains compact and well-organized. Furthermore, effective communication with both the midfield and the backline is essential for seamless coordination and defensive solidarity. 


 Physical attributes also play a significant role in a right back's performance. Speed and agility are paramount for keeping pace with opposition wingers and executing overlapping runs in the attack. Additionally, a right back needs strength and stamina to endure the physical demands of the game, especially during high-intensity situations. 


 

Defensive Techniques and Strategies

One of the key aspects of excelling as a right back is mastering various defensive techniques and strategies. This includes understanding the merits of man-marking versus zonal marking. While man-marking involves tracking a specific opponent, zonal marking focuses on defending a designated area. Knowing when to employ each approach is crucial for thwarting opposition attacks effectively.


 Additionally, timing and positioning are pivotal in a right back's defensive repertoire. Anticipating an opponent's movements allows for timely interceptions and crucial tackles. Furthermore, the adept use of the offside trap can catch opposition players off guard, providing a strategic advantage for the defensive line. 


 Tackling is a fundamental skill for any defender, and a right back is no exception. Choosing between sliding tackles and standing tackles depends on the situation. Knowing when to go to ground and when to stay on your feet is a hallmark of a skilled right back. 


 Aerial duels and heading ability are equally vital components of a right back's defensive toolkit. Even if not the tallest player on the field, a right back must learn to effectively challenge and win aerial battles against taller opponents. Additionally, directing headers accurately to teammates is crucial for maintaining possession and launching counter-attacks. 


 

Offensive Contributions of a Right Back

While the right back's primary role is defensive, their contributions in the attack should not be underestimated. A well-rounded right back can serve as an additional attacking outlet, providing width to the team's play and creating goal-scoring opportunities.


 One of the most potent offensive weapons in a right back's arsenal is the overlapping run. This strategic move involves pushing forward to support the midfield and forwards, creating numerical advantages in the attack. By timing these runs to coincide with the winger's movement, the right back can stretch the opposition's defense and deliver dangerous crosses into the box. 


 Crossing techniques are paramount for a right back's attacking effectiveness. Understanding when to employ instep crosses, whip crosses, or cut-backs is essential for delivering accurate and dangerous balls into the penalty area. Moreover, mastering the art of judging the right moment to release the cross can make the difference between a routine clearance and a goal-scoring opportunity. 


 Linking up with midfielders and wingers is another crucial aspect of a right back's attacking role. By providing options for passes in the attacking third, a right back can help maintain possession and build sustained pressure. Effective combination play with teammates, especially the winger, can lead to intricate attacking moves and create goal-scoring chances. 


 Shooting opportunities may not be as frequent for a right back as they are for forwards, but they are nonetheless important. Knowing when to join the attack and having a proficient striking technique for long-range shots can catch opponents off guard and add an unexpected dimension to the team's offensive play. 


 Set pieces and dead-ball situations offer additional avenues for a right back to contribute to the attack. Taking corner kicks and free-kicks requires precision and technique. A right back's ability to deliver dangerous set pieces can lead to scoring opportunities and give the team an edge in critical moments of the game. 


Famous Right Backs include:

Berti Vogts

Gianluca Zambrotta

Javier Zanetti

Lilian Thuram


Source Information: https://www.cupello.com/blog/right-back-soccer#:~:text=Defensively%2C%20the%20right%20back%20is,Tactical%20acumen%20is%20equally%20vital.


Left Wing Back (LWB) - No.3

 A Left Wing-Back (LWB) is an advanced defender positioned on the left flank, typically used in formations with three central defenders. The LWB plays a crucial dual role, contributing both to defense and attack. Their primary responsibilities include marking opposition wingers, blocking crosses, and preventing wide attacks, while also providing width to their team’s offensive play. 


 The Left Wing-Back is expected to make overlapping runs, deliver crosses into the box, and create scoring opportunities. Speed, stamina, and endurance are key attributes for a Left Wing-Back, allowing them to cover large areas of the pitch and transition quickly between defensive and attacking duties. The LWB plays a vital role in both defending against wide threats and supporting offensive actions, making them essential to modern tactical systems. 


 

LWB Types


Attacking Wing-Back

The Attacking Wing-Back prioritizes joining the attack, frequently overlapping with forwards to deliver crosses and create scoring chances. Known for their pace, stamina, and crossing ability, they are integral in supporting the attack and creating opportunities on the left side.


 

Defensive Wing-Back

The Defensive Wing-Back focuses primarily on their defensive responsibilities, staying back to block counterattacks and defend against opposing wingers. Their tactical awareness, positioning, and tackling ability make them reliable in preventing wide threats.


 

Inverted Wing-Back

The Inverted Wing-Back often moves into central midfield areas when attacking, offering support in the middle of the pitch. This role requires good passing accuracy and high tactical intelligence to help control possession and create attacking plays from deeper positions.


 

Box-to-Box Wing-Back

The Box-to-Box Wing-Back contributes equally in both defense and attack, frequently running up and down the flank to support both phases of play. Stamina, versatility, and tactical awareness are vital for covering the vast areas of the pitch.


 

Playmaking Wing-Back

The Playmaking Wing-Back operates as a secondary playmaker from the left side. They initiate attacks, make key passes, and control the tempo of play. Strong vision, technical skill, and the ability to read the game are essential for this role.


 

Wide Playmaker Wing-Back

A Wide Playmaker Wing-Back acts as an additional playmaker, delivering precise crosses and key passes from wide areas. They are skilled at distributing the ball and creating opportunities, making them key in possession-based systems.


 

Overlap Specialist

The Overlap Specialist focuses on making overlapping runs to get behind the opposition’s defense, providing width and crossing opportunities. Their speed, stamina, and timing are essential to provide effective support for the left-wing attack.


 

Tactical Wing-Back

The Tactical Wing-Back adapts to various roles depending on the team’s tactical needs. Known for their positional intelligence, adaptability, and awareness, they seamlessly transition between defensive and offensive duties to maintain balance in the team’s play.


Famous Left Wing Backs include:

  •  Giacinto Facchetti 
  •  José Antonio Camacho
  • Theo Hernandez
  •   Gianni Rivera 


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/lwb/

Right Wing Back (RWB) - No.2

 A Right Wing-Back (RWB) is an advanced defender positioned on the right flank, typically used in formations with three central defenders. The Right Wing-Back plays a dual role, contributing to both defensive solidity and offensive threat. Their primary responsibilities include marking opposition wingers, blocking crosses, and preventing wide attacks, while also supporting their team’s attack by providing width on the right side of the pitch. 


 Right Wing-Backs are expected to make overlapping runs, deliver crosses into the box, and create scoring opportunities. Their ability to cover large areas of the field is crucial, and they must possess speed, stamina, and endurance to transition quickly between defense and attack. The Right Wing-Back plays a key role in both shutting down opposing threats and supporting offensive play, making them a vital part of modern defensive and attacking systems. 

 

RWB Types


Attacking Wing-Back

The Attacking Wing-Back prioritizes joining the attack, frequently overlapping with forwards and providing key crosses into the box. Known for their pace, stamina, and crossing ability, they are integral in creating offensive opportunities and supporting the attack on the right side.


 

Defensive Wing-Back

The Defensive Wing-Back focuses primarily on their defensive responsibilities, staying back to block counterattacks and defend against opposing wingers. Their tactical awareness, positioning, and tackling ability make them reliable in preventing wide threats.


 

Inverted Wing-Back

The Inverted Wing-Back often moves into central midfield areas when attacking, offering support in the middle of the pitch. This role requires passing accuracy and high tactical intelligence, as they help maintain possession and create attacking plays from deeper positions.


 

Box-to-Box Wing-Back

The Box-to-Box Wing-Back contributes equally in both defense and attack, frequently running up and down the flank to support both phases of play. Stamina, versatility, and tactical awareness are vital for this type, as they cover significant areas of the pitch.


 

Playmaking Wing-Back

A Playmaking Wing-Back is a secondary playmaker from the wide areas. They initiate attacks, make key passes, and control the tempo of play. Strong vision, technical skill, and the ability to read the game are crucial attributes for this role.


 

Wide Playmaker Wing-Back

The Wide Playmaker Wing-Back acts as an additional playmaker, delivering precise crosses and creating opportunities from the right flank. They are skilled in distributing the ball and providing key passes, making them vital in possession-based systems.


 

Overlap Specialist

The Overlap Specialist focuses on making overlapping runs to get behind the opposition’s defense, offering width and crossing opportunities. Their speed, stamina, and timing are critical in providing effective support for the right-wing attack.


 

Tactical Wing-Back

A Tactical Wing-Back is adaptable, able to switch between defensive and attacking duties depending on the team’s needs. Known for their positional intelligence, adaptability, and awareness, they ensure the balance between defense and attack is maintained throughout the match.


Famous Right Wing Backs include: 

Reece James

Cafu

Dani Carvajal

Dani Alves


Source Information: https://www.footballizer.com/academy/rwb/

Sweepers (SW) - No.5

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Stopper

 Although it’s now rarely used in the professional game, the stopper position is a very common feature in youth soccer and is a great way to teach young players how to defend.  


 The stopper is expected to win every tackle and aerial challenge and not be afraid to put their body on the line, time and time again. They are paired alongside a sweeper in the centre of defense.


 As the more aggressive of the two central defenders, they’re expected to quickly put pressure on the opposition's strikers, move in to intercept the ball, and stop dangerous moves in their tracks. 


 While the modern game now puts a lot more emphasis on centre backs being comfortable on the ball and starting moves from the back, the stopper position is all about defending and doing everything possible to stop a goal from being scored. 


 The stopper usually lines up as part of a back four with two fullbacks to either side of them and a sweeper slightly behind them. 

 

As such, the defense has an almost diamond shape to it with the stopper being the defender who’s expected to contest each header and win every tackle and the sweeper cleaning up any loose balls that get through.


 The main reason that many youth coaches decide to line up with a stopper and sweeper is that it helps young defenders learn both how to defend and play out from the back. 


 In football, the stopper is the purest defensive role there is. 


 This is because the player is expected to win tackles and headers, put in hefty challenges, and ensure that no opposing striker gets the best of them, with little emphasis placed on their passing abilities. 


 The stopper's job is to fiercely contest every ball held by the opposing striker, put enormous pressure on them, and stop them from getting a shot off or creating a goalscoring opportunity for a teammate. 


 While the sweeper drops off, ready to sweep up any loose balls, it’s the stopper who aggressively pushes forward and throws themselves into challenges. 


 As such, the stopper needs to be brave and strong and not be afraid to put their head where it hurts. 


 They are often an intimidating and physical player, the stopper is expected to contest and win every aerial challenge that comes their way and not allow the opposition's striker any free shot at goal. 


 They need to be able to anticipate what the striker is going to do and move in front of them to intercept passes or stick close to them and hound them so that they can't turn towards goal. 


 While they should be aggressive in the tackle, they should refrain from giving away fouls in front of the penalty area which is a delicate area of the field for the team. 


 Ultimately, they should have great discipline and positioning and not go to ground too quickly as this allows space to open up behind them. 


 Timing is everything for Stoppers!!! It is therefore also key to pulling off the perfect tackle or blocking the rare shots that come their way. 


 Once they’ve won the ball back, the stopper usually plays it short to a teammate, or if under pressure, clears the ball by kicking it up to one of the strikers. 


 By remaining in constant communication with the sweeper, defenders, and midfielders around them, they organize and limit the space and time in which the opposition has to play.


 All in all, it’s their job to do everything possible to prevent their opponents from scoring. 


In conclusion, the stopper centre-back is usually the hard man of the backline. They are characteristically strong and dominant in the air, responsible for dealing with the muscular threat of the more rugged centre-forwards. On the floor they're considered ferocious tacklers and ruthless ma-markers. They usually form ideal complementary partnerships with ball playing defenders but whilst their ball playing skills are limited compared to sweepers - they can be useful in set piece situations in an offensive capacity and pivotal when defending them. The best stoppers are also great leaders of men, vocal and able to organize the back-line effectively. They're also capable of resorting to the use of the dark arts (foul play) if need be.


  Famous Stoppers include:

Oscar Ruggeri (The Big-Headed One)

Jurgen Kohler (The Kokser)

Jose Santamaria (The Wall)

Karl-Heinz Forster 

Nemanja Vidic (Vida)

Claudio Gentile (Qaddafi)

Fabio Cannavarro (The Berlin Wall)

Jaap Stam (The Rock of Kampen)


Source Information: https://www.soccercoachingpro.com/stopper-soccer/


Source Information: https://pythagorasinboots.com/greatest-stoppers/

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The Midfield - Types of Midfielders

Central Defensive Midfielder (CDM) (DM) (Holding Midfielder) - No.6

Central Defensive Midfielder (CDM) (DM) (Holding Midfielder) - No.6

 What is a number six (6)?

A number six (6) or a Central Defensive Midfielder (holding midfielder or midfield anchor) is a defensive midfielder (DM) who is stationed in front of the defenders to provide more defensive protection, thus "holding back" when the rest of the midfield supports the attack. The defensive midfielder screens the defense by harrying and tackling the opposition teams' attackers and defenders. 


They also help tactically, for instance, by directing opposing attacking players out to the wing where they have more limited influence, and by covering the positions of full-backs, other midfielders and even the centre-backs if they charge up to support the attack. In the mid-2000s, the role was popularized by Claude Makélélé, resulting in the position often being referred to as the 'Makélélé role'. The position may also be referred to as the team's 'water carrier', in reference to a derogatory comment made by Eric Cantona towards his French national team-mate Didier Deschamps. 


 Although the duties of defensive midfielders are primarily defensive, some midfielders are deployed as deep-lying playmakers, due to their ability to dictate tempo from a deep position with their passing. Sometimes a defensive midfielder will be paired with a central midfielder who will act as the deep-lying playmaker. When ever the central midfielder ventures forward the defensive midfielder will hold back. 


 Defensive midfielders require good positional sense, work rate, tackling ability, and anticipation (of player and ball movement) to excel. They also need to possess good passing skills and close control to hold the ball in midfield under sustained pressure. Most importantly, defensive midfielders require great stamina as they are the outfield players who cover the greatest distance during a professional match. In top football clubs, a midfielder may cover up to 12 kilometers for a full 90-minute game. Deep-lying playmakers typically require a good first touch under opposition pressure and the ability to play long cross field passes to attacking players further upfield. 


 What is a double pivot?
A double pivot is a withdrawn central-midfield or defensive-midfield pairing. They are positioned in front of the central defenders, inside the full-backs or wing-backs, and behind the attacking midfielders. The duo is most commonly used in a 4-2-3-1 formation, operating behind a single number 10. 


 A double pivot can also be used in a 4-4-2 shape, especially when the wide midfielders move into narrow positions when the team attacks. Alternatively, a double pivot can be used ahead of a back three in a 3-4-3 structure. 


 A single pivot operates alone in the spaces between the defensive and attacking units. A double pivot, as the name suggests, adds a second player in that zone. 


 Where does the double pivot originate?
Two central players in front of the defense has long been common in football. The W-M formation introduced by Herbert Chapman in the 1920s featured two half-backs positioned ahead of three full-backs. Operating behind the two inside forwards, the half-back pair covered similar areas to that of the modern-day double pivot. However, the role of the double pivot has developed significantly over time. 


 In the 1980s, Brazil played in a 4-2-2-2 formation, with Falcão and Cerezo in front of the defense and behind Zico and Socrates. This evolved, as time went on, into something resembling the modern 4-2-3-1. One of the centre-forwards dropped back, and the attacking midfielders moved wider to form a three behind a lone striker. 


Famous Central Defensive Midfield players include:

  • Claude Makélélé
  • N'Golo Kanté
  • Sergio Busquets  
  • Lothar Matthäus


Source Information: https://www.storiespreschool.com/soccer_positions_defensivemidfield.html


Source Information:

https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/double-pivot-football-tactics-explained-bayern-munich-chelsea/

Box-to-Box Midfielder or Central Midfielder (CM) - No.8

Central Defensive Midfielder (CDM) (DM) (Holding Midfielder) - No.6

 What is a number eight (8)?

A number eight (8) is a Central Midfielder (CM) who traditionally operates as a box-to-box midfield player, doing both attacking and defensive jobs. In the modern game, however, the role has evolved to include support play through the inside channels, with lots of matches seeing more control and less end-to-end football.


The role of the number eight requires lots of energy, and contributions to both the attacking and defending phases of the game. Number eights can operate in a central-midfield two, as part of a three, or on the side of a diamond behind a number 10. 


 

What are the in-possession responsibilities of a number eight?

As the number eight operates mostly in central areas, they are tasked with connecting defense with attack, and the right side of the team with the left. In a midfield two, the number eight will have more responsibility to add extra central presence underneath the front line with forward runs from midfield. These movements will often target the space between the opposition centre-backs. The number eight’s midfield partner will stay deeper to provide protection in front of the back four.


 In a midfield three, the number eight will still provide forward runs, but more often through the inside channels. In this formation, there are two number eights, meaning runs can be made through each inside channel simultaneously. These forward runs will tend to target the space in between an opposition full-back and centre-back.


 Number eights move around the pitch to get on the ball and build play. They play a key role in a team switching play, cross from withdrawn positions, shoot from distance and combine in central areas with the striker or strikers. They may drop deep to receive and help in the build-up phase, but when playing as part of a midfield two they will usually only drop deep briefly. In that formation, they are often needed further forward to help in attack. 


 When the number eight is part of a midfield three, they can stay deeper for longer when supporting build-up. The other number eight then moves across to fill the gap they have left in the centre of the pitch, and can provide height to support in attack if needed. 


 

What are the out-of-possession responsibilities of a number eight?

The number eight is responsible for tracking central runs, protecting the defense and, when required, aggressively counter-pressing. When playing as part of a pair, they must be athletic, quick, strong in individual duels and good at screening passes into the opposing centre-forward.


 When playing in a three, the number eights are more likely to jump out of line to press, duel, tackle and engage the opposing ball-carrier. The single pivot screens the defense and covers the space behind the two number eights. 


 When part of a low block, the number eights play an important role in keeping the team compact and preventing central passes penetrating through the team. They will slide across the pitch from side to side in a compact unit, and may also press into wide areas when needed, to help lock the ball near the touchline. 


 When supporting a high press, the number eights can either mark their direct opponent, or zonally cover central-midfield spaces. They may also be required to jump forward and press the centre-backs, especially when supporting a lone centre-forward. 


 

What are the benefits of playing with a number eight?

Traditional box-to-box runs can drive a team forward, add an extra player to an attack and force defenses back, closer to their own goal. This will overload and put strain on the opposition’s defenders, and will also create space in between the lines for teammates to target. A delayed forward run from a number eight, meanwhile, can target this space in front of the opposition defense for cut-backs or the second phase of an attack. Late movement is also very useful in disrupting the opposition’s set-up.


 When playing as part of a midfield three, a number eight’s position in the inside channel can enhance the team’s chances of a player getting on the ball between the lines. This in turn increases the chances of them breaking beyond the opposing back line. Playing with two number 8s as part of a three can also overload an opposing central-midfield two, giving teams a free player to play through in central areas. 


 

What are the disadvantages to playing with a number eight?

The number eight role demands a high physical output. If this isn’t maintained, the player and team’s effectiveness may be significantly reduced.


 With football now more controlled and less end-to-end in style, space isn’t always available for trademark box-to-box runs. As a result, the role increasingly requires higher technical quality, with central midfielders now required to combine in tight central areas. So, if a number eight is not of sufficient quality, the team can suffer. 


 The often instinctive forward runs from a number eight can leave central pockets of space for opponents to exploit on transition. This is particularly true when a midfield two is used. Potential lack of cover and protection underneath the ball can stem from forward runs from the number eight. 


Famous Central Midfield players include:

  • Toni Kroos
  • Frank Lampard
  • Steven Gerrard
  • Andrea Pirlo


Source Information: https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/number-8-football-tactics-henderson-kroos-modric-iniesta/

Advance Playmaker (Attacking Midfielder) or Central Attacking Midfielder (CAM) - No.10

 What is a number 10?
A number 10 is a Central Attacking Midfielder (CAM) who operates in the spaces between central midfield and the front line. They often receive between the opposition’s midfield and defense – a space commonly referred to as ‘between the lines’. 


 Where does the name ‘number 10’ originate?
The classic number 10 role is so named because it was traditionally the number worn by the player in that position. It was called the ‘enganche’ in Argentina, which translates as ‘hook’, to describe its importance in connecting midfield and attack. As sides began to move away from the 4-3-3 of the 1970s to the 4-3-1-2 or 4-4-2 diamond of the 1980s, the ‘hook’ became even more important. 


 In the modern era, the number 10 usually plays underneath a single centre-forward, with a double pivot in behind in a 4-2-3-1 structure. A single number 10 is also used in a 3-4-1-2 shape. However, many teams now use defensive midfielders in the spaces where a classic number 10 would operate. As a result, the role of the modern number 10 now requires more varied movements and a broader skillset. 


 What are the in-possession responsibilities of a number 10?
The original, classic number 10 was expected to connect defense and midfield with the front line. They should create chances for teammates with clever dribbles, touches, crosses, passes, through balls and combinations. They often operated in tight spaces and under pressure from opponents from several directions. 


 As the game has evolved, though, number 10s are required to do much more. Their responsibilities involve far more than just creating for others with on-the-ball actions. Movements into the penalty area to support the centre forward(s) are important, as well as moving out wide and into the inside channels to support a winger or full-back. They should help create wide overloads, to get teammates into spaces to cross. The modern number 10 might also drop deeper centrally to receive, especially when there is little space between the lines. 


 Number 10s are also expected to provide a goal threat by running beyond the striker(s), attacking crosses and supporting the second phase of play after a ball into a centre-forward. 


 What are the out-of-possession responsibilities of a number 10?
The classic number 10 had few defensive responsibilities – often, they had something of a free role. When their team was defending, they would look for space to receive a pass following a turnover and launch a counter-attack. While the rest of the midfield battled for possession and defended central areas, the number 10 was thinking about how to take advantage when possession was regained. 


 A modern number 10 has far more defensive responsibility, though. They will often push forward to press the opposition centre-backs or move to defend in wide areas. Often, they will directly engage and duel with opposing full-backs high up the pitch.  


 A number 10 also plays a key screening role if the coach wants them to block access into the opposition's pivot. From this position, they will screen central passes, block forward runs and make interceptions. This is very useful, whether the manager wants the team to press high up the pitch or drop into a mid or low-block. 


 What are the benefits of playing with a number 10?
Playing with a number 10 makes it more likely that a team will access the space between the lines. When this happens, a team is also more likely to create chances. This is particularly so against teams that set up with two flat defensive lines, such as in the 4-4-2. 


 Otherwise, the number 10 can create gaps in an opposing back line by moving away from goal to drag defenders out of shape. Pausing on the ball can also help dismantle a defensive line if an opponent moves towards the ball. This can enable teammates to exploit the resulting space. 


 A number 10 will take attention away from the main goal threat – the centre-forward or centre-forwards – through movements, passes and their general threat in support of other attackers. This can lead to more space in more advanced positions, and more – and better – chances to score. 


 Defensively, the number 10 can provide an additional screen for passes into central areas. They can also support the centre-forward or centre-forwards when pressing higher up the pitch. 


 What are the disadvantages to playing with a number 10?
In the modern game, players who don’t contribute defensively severely affect the rest of the team. As a result, modern-day number 10s need to do more than provide on-the-ball quality. They must also be willing to work hard and do the job asked of them out of possession. 


 In attack, there can be too great a reliance on a number 10 to provide creative output for their team. So, whenever opponents block access to the number 10, man-mark them, or stop them from receiving in key areas, the team’s attacking output can be compromised. 


 With many modern teams using either a single or double pivot close to the defence, access to the central spaces between the lines – where a number 10 should be most effective – can be difficult to find. The increase in formations that limit central space has led to a decline in use of a traditional number 10. 


 There are now more rotations, movements and swapping of roles, so the number 10 may find themselves moving away from their preferred position. This may leave some coaches questioning whether they need a specialist number 10 at all. 


Famous Central Attacking Midfield players include:

  • Zinedine Zidane
  • Zico
  • Diego Maradona
  • James Rodriguez


Source Information:

https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/number-10-in-soccer/


Wide Midfielder - No.7 (RM) and No.11 (LM)

 A wide midfielder (left midfield and right midfield, or generally side midfielder) (historically called left-half and right-half, or wing-half) is a midfielder who is stationed to the left or right of central midfield. Though they are often referred to as wingers, not all players in these positions are stereotypical speedy, touchline hugging players. 


 With the advent of the modern game the traditional outside forwards known as "wingers" were pushed back to wide midfield, though still commonly referred to as wingers. As the game has developed further, some tactical formations (for example, 4–3–3) have used central midfielders deployed in a wider position to provide width, more defensive protection along the flanks and to help compress play in the opponents half. They will still support attacking play and sometimes be expected to act as a semi-winger. 


Famous Wide Midfielders include:

Andres Iniesta

Xavi Hernandez

Gavi

Pedri


Source Information:

https://www.storiespreschool.com/soccer_positions_widemidfield.html

Deep-Lying Playmaker (Regista) - No.6

Deep-Lying Playmaker (Regista) - No.6

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Deep-Lying Playmaker (Regista) - No.6

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Trequartista

 What is a Trequartista?

Trequartistas are creative, goal-minded players who primarily operate in the spaces between midfield and attack.


 A classic trequartista operates behind the front line, linking fluidly with forwards, wide midfielders and runners from deep to create and score chances. Primarily, they'll occupy central areas of the pitch, in a role that's similar to what English football fans would label the "number 10" position.


 According to Italian coach Roberto Mancini, a Premier League winner with Manchester City and a European Championship victor with Italy, “The magic of the number ten comes from the trequartista’s feet; the player of inventiveness, the one who is capable of wrong-footing everyone with a piece of skill perhaps even he is not fully aware of.” 


 This concise description of the trequartista role captures something at the heart of this concept: this player will almost always be the offensive heartbeat of their team. Not every attacking midfielder is a trequartista, given that trequartistas will tend to play closer to the striker than an archetypal playmaker, and offer more of a goal threat than a classic number 10. But every trequartista is a special player. 


 Trequartistas in football are neither out-and-out strikers nor deeper-lying playmakers — they're somewhere in the middle, providing crucial support to the main striker while also chipping in with goals and assists of their own. 


 

The Origins of the Trequartista Role

 The word "Trequartista" literally translates to 'three quarters' from Italian. This name is an accurate description of the zones occupied by this player, with the best trequartistas tending to operate around three quarters of the way up the pitch, in positions between the central midfielders and strikers.  


 The trequartista can be deployed in a number of ways, and in various different formations. The 4-3-1-2 shape, a popular formation in Italy used by coaches like Cesare Prandelli and Carlo Ancelotti, would feature at least one attacking playmaker in the #10 role, and possibly more (there doesn't always have to be just one trequartista in a team). This role could also be featured within a 4-4-1-1 shape, with the number 10 behind the striker offering fluid movement and creative sparks at the top end of the pitch. Ultimately, the precise role of the trequartista is down to the manager. 


 

The Trequartista in Football: Key Skills and Responsibilities

One thing to note here is that the trequartista, unlike almost every other player on the pitch, is rarely expected to contribute much in terms of defensive work. Their primary focus is contributing towards potent attacking play, making runs into the final third and combining with forwards and midfielders to hurt the opposition.


 Technical proficiency is absolutely key here; the best trequartistas are generally the most technically gifted players on the team, with excellent ball control skills, supreme confidence when it comes to receiving and dribbling with the ball, a varied passing range, and superb ball striking skills. They also need to have a strong creative vision, always looking a couple of steps ahead to see where they might be able to play in a teammate or find space in a dangerous area. They'll be agile, and crucially, they'll have an eye for goal — trequartistas need to be able to get on the scoresheet. 


 Clearly then, it's a demanding role, and it's one that can vary from game to game based on each individual manager's plans. It's also impacted profoundly by how the opposition attempt to nullify you. For example, over time, defenses have learned how to cope with this kind of player, adapting their shape to reduce the threat, whether that be employing a harder man-to-man press or dropping off into an impenetrable low block. 


 As pressing has become increasingly important to modern football, spurred on by the successes of the German philosophy of gegenpressing,  it has also got more and more difficult to ignore the fact that a classic #10 doesn't really offer much in terms of defense. Therefore, many coaches who favor a pressing-centric tactical system have left the trequartista role behind, instead aiming to generate creativity from wide midfielders or inside forwards. There's less space for this kind of player, who is sometimes seen as a luxury. However, that doesn't mean the trequartista is dead and buried. There are some incredible modern players who fit within this bracket, and they're following in the footsteps of giants.   


 

Combating the Trequartista

Over the years, teams have got better at defending against trequartistas. The fact that the number 10 is often given lots of responsibility and pressure to create means that if they're stifled, a team's attacking potency can take a real hit. Managers sometimes opt to silence a trequartista by making a strong, positionally astute defensive player man-mark them, refusing to allow them space and preventing them from finding the passing lanes they're looking for. A zonal marking system can also be used to mark the space that the trequartista seeks to exploit. 


 Combine that with the ever-growing importance of pressing, and you've got a situation in which the trequartista position has become less present within elite football. However, don't think that the trequartista is dead and buried; in a few years' time, we could see pressing take a back seat and the luxury goal-minded attacking midfielder gain centre stage once more.


Source Information:

 https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/the-trequartista-position-explained/



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The Makelele Role

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The Metronome

The Metronome is a type of midfield player (typically a No.6 or No.8 or at times even a wide midfielder such as a no.7 or no.11) who influences games by controlling the tempo of their team's play through their direct, precise, and efficient passing during the game. They also have the ability to make themselves available to teammates to receive and subsequently distribute the ball. The Metronome was initially a nicknamed first given to Andrea Pirlo. Pirlo made this role famous throughout his illustrious career while playing for AC Milan, Juventus and the Italian National Team. Other players have adopted this role overtime for their respective teams.


Famous Metronomes include:

Thiago Alcantara

Rodri

Toni Kroos

Andrea Pirlo


Source Information:

https://kids.kiddle.co/Andrea_Pirlo

The Forwards (Attackers) - Types of Forwards

Center Forward (CF) - No.10

 A center forward has the key task of scoring goals and for this reason acts as the focal point of the majority of attacking play by a team. As such, how well a center forward is performing tends to be measured purely on goals scored despite the fact that they may be contributing in other ways to a team's success. The center forward is often paired with a second striker who may play around him or in a slightly withdrawn role respectively, though it is not unknown to play two recognized center forwards. 


 The position of a center forward is one of the hardest in football since it is physically and mentally demanding. While other youth football positions like midfielders and center-backs play vital roles, it is the position of the center-forward that the team looks at for winning matches. 


 A center forward needs to have excellent endurance and situational awareness. Other necessary skills include the ability for headers, passing, tackling, and long-range shooting. 


Famous Center Forwards include:

  • Lionel Messi
  • Pele
  • Lautaro Martinez
  • Ronaldo (R9)


Source Information:

https://newmodernsports.weebly.com/positions9.html


Source Information:

https://www.opengoaaal.com/blogs/news/center-forward-vs-striker-in-football-what-is-the-difference

Main Striker or Striker (ST) - No.9

 The main purpose of a striker is to lead a team’s efforts toward placing the ball at the back of the net. Strikers take up advanced attacking positions near the penalty box of the opponent. Their primary task is to receive passes from their teammates and score.


  However, modern strikers have a wider area of play than the previous area to avoid the defenders and offside traps. Staying within the penalty box makes them the target man for the defenders. 


 So, the best strikers also shoot from a distance to beat the goalkeeper. 


Famous Strikers include:

  • Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7)
  • Robert Lewandowski
  • Harry Kane
  • Karim Benzema


Source Information:

https://www.opengoaaal.com/blogs/news/center-forward-vs-striker-in-football-what-is-the-difference

Left Winger (LW) - No.11

Left Winger (LW) - No.11

 A winger (left winger and right winger) is an attacking player who is stationed in a wide position near the touchlines. They can be classified as forwards, considering their origin as the old outside forward who played out on the "wing" (i.e. side of the pitch). A winger's main attribute is usually speed which is used to attack and dribble past opponent's full-backs in order to get behind the defense and to then deliver crosses and passes into the center for their attackers. Occasionally, left and right footed wingers may swap sides of the field as a tactical move to enable the winger to cut inside against the opposing full-backs weaker foot, looking for a shooting opportunity or just as a means of opening up the defense. 


Famous Left Wingers include:

  • Neymar Jr
  • Vinicius Jr
  • Kylian Mbappe
  • Eden Hazard


Source Information:

https://newmodernsports.weebly.com/positions9.html

Right Winger (RW) - No.7

Left Winger (LW) - No.11

 A winger (left winger and right winger) is an attacking player who is stationed in a wide position near the touchlines. They can be classified as forwards, considering their origin as the old outside forward who played out on the "wing" (i.e. side of the pitch). A winger's main attribute is usually speed which is used to attack and dribble past opponent's full-backs in order to get behind the defense and to then deliver crosses and passes into the center for their attackers. Occasionally, left and right footed wingers may swap sides of the field as a tactical move to enable the winger to cut inside against the opposing full-backs weaker foot, looking for a shooting opportunity or just as a means of opening up the defense.


Famous Right Wingers include:

Angel di Maria

Mohamed Salah

Raphinha

Gareth Bale


Source Information:

https://newmodernsports.weebly.com/positions9.html


False 9

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The Target Man

 A target man doesn’t necessarily have to be huge, although it does help. As the name suggests they act as a target for their team. 


 Their aim is to win high, aerial balls, hold up the play to bring other teammates into the attack and generally unsettle the opposition's defense. It is a simple enough role to understand, but in the modern game, it is not an easy tactic to carry out effectively. 


 Forwards in this mould have to be particularly strong while also still being able to be agile enough to cover a huge amount of turf. This is particularly true if you’re a target forward playing for a team that plays in a low block and aren’t particularly interested in the possession battle. 


 That means your team will probably spend the majority of the game defending, backs-against-the-wall style. The target forward will have to run the channels and utilize whatever space is available.


 The target forward won’t look to make blindside runs, at least on a regular basis. Instead they will spend the majority of a large proportion of the game time with their back to goal, keeping praying defenders at bay.  


Famous Target Men include:

  • Didier Drogba
  • Olivier Giroud
  • Peter Crouch
  • Romelu Lukaku


 

What is the channel?

There two types of channels on the football pitch: vertical and horizontal. Vertical is probably the more well-known of the two, referring to the space in between the full-back and the central defender.


This is the area that an intelligent forward will always look to exploit – often with a blindside run. When playing against a traditional flat back four, the channel can be a potential goldmine.


 In this instance, both centre-back and full-back won’t know who should be picking up the opposition forward when drifting into that zone. It becomes a grey area, often leading to pointing and arguing when a goal is subsequently conceded. 


 There are also the horizontal channels, the lines that sit between the teams defense and midfield. As a general rule, these channels tend to be exploited more by a team who has an overload in midfield. 


 When it comes to horizontal channels, however, it's more often referred to as “getting between the lines".

 

What is an overload?

If the team with the ball is outnumbering the team without the ball in one area of the pitch, that is an overload.


Teams that are able to consistently form overloads will generally be able to create a lot of goalscoring opportunities. More players equal more goals, right?


 But overloads aren't just formed by attackers. In addition, there can also have a defensive overload. This is when there is a cluster of defensive players remaining compact and outnumbering the attackers in one area of the pitch. 


 

What is compactness or staying compact in football?

In simple terms, to be compact means to deny the opposition space. Whether a coach has set their team up in a mid or low block, for it to be effective, a team must be compact. This means the space between defensive lines must be as tight as possible when out of possession.


 

What is getting between the lines?

For the purpose of this, the lines refer to a connecting space among a team's defenders, or midfielders, or attackers. In a basic 4-4-2 system, the defensive line would be joined up by the back four.


 Of particular importance is getting between the defensive and midfield line. This is the golden area of space, the majority of possession-based teams are seeking. 


 If an attacking team isn’t particularly direct with their attacking play, exploiting this area is key to reaching the final third. But it isn’t straightforward. Intricate passing and excellent close control is fundamental for ball players trying to break the lines. At any level of football, being able to do this fluently can be difficult. 


 From the other point of view, the defending team without the ball will obviously try to stop players finding pockets of space in their defensive shape. 


 By closing the spaces between the lines, the defending team will make it far more difficult for the opposition to play through them directly. Teams in a mid or low block fundamentally can not allow too much space between their defensive line and those in front. A side with top-quality playmakers or a dominant no.10 will utilize any unoccupied grass to create chances. 


 

What is the low block?

A low block occurs when a team holds a deep narrow defensive line out of possession. They will have their defenders close to their own goal, to deny the opposition space to run in-behind the backline.


The midfield and attack will also be within, or close to, their own half with minimal space between each unit, with the priority to protect their deep-lying defensive line. Space in the opponents half is conceded.


 There is also an expectation on the centre-backs, whether playing in the two or a three position, not to be passive and simply sit back. They must show controlled aggression and aim to dominate the space in front of them, not allowing the opposition to pass their way through the block and break the lines with ease. 


 A team employing the low block won’t be expected to have the majority of possession over 90 minutes, but this does not mean it is an ineffective tactic, far from it. 


 If a team can do this while remaining 'compact' they can become very difficult for the opposition to break down, restricting the number of chances in a game. It is a set-up best employed for a match where you know the opposition might have more individually talented players, but suspect they might lack cohesion and creativeness. 


 

What is the blindside?

If an attacker is making blindside run, they are moving while their opposing defender is looking at the ball.


If timed well it should put the maximum space possible between the player making the run and the player supposed to be staying close to them.


 When the opposition has possession, defenders are often taught to position themselves ‘side on’, rather than facing the ball flat. This makes sense. It allows for greater balance and makes reacting a short notice far easier than if ‘face on’. 


But it does have the drawback of potentially being exploited by the blindside run from a centre forward. No defender can have eyes in the back of his/her head to see where the blindside run is coming from or which space the attacker is looking to exploit.


It isn’t an easy skill. Blindside runs still require the passer of the ball and the player making the run to be in perfect sync.


Source Information:

https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/football-tactics-target-man


Source Information:

https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/the-channel-football-tactics-explained


Source Information:

https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/football-tactics-overload


Source Information:

https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/compact-football-tactics-explained


Source Information:

https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/football-tactics-between-the-lines


Source Information:

https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/the-low-block-football-tactics-explained


Source Information:

https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/blindside-football-tactics-explained


Second Striker (SS)

 The second strikers (withdrawn striker or support striker) tend not to be as tall or as physically imposing as a center forward. They are required to be more "nippy", quick, mobile, and skillful, helping to create goals and scoring opportunities for center forwards, utilizing spaces created in the opposition's defense to provide passes to the strikers, picking up loose balls around the area, or attempting to dribble with the ball and score themselves. The position itself is a loosely defined one, a player who lies somewhere between the out-and-out striker and the midfield, who can perform this role effectively due to their vision, technical skills, creativity, and passing ability. 


Source Information: https://newmodernsports.weebly.com/positions9.html

Goal Poacher

  A Goal Poacher is a type of striker with an awesome scoring ability and dangerous movement in front of the opposing goal. Poachers are players who always seem to be at the right place at the right time when it comes to scoring goals. Poachers do not necessarily involve themselves in the build-up of the play, but they sure are right there when it comes to putting the ball in the net.


  To poach, originally, is a term used to describe the act of hunting animals on someone else's land. In relation to football it translates to, something along the lines of, sneaking up to the goalie and putting a foot in the way of his pass, hoping for a bounce. 


Famous Goal Poachers include:

Gerd Muller

Ruud van Nistelrooy

Filippo Inzaghi

Romario


Source Information:

https://www.sports-king.com/dictionary.php?q=poacher

Fox-in-the-Box

Fox-in-the-Box

 The 'Fox-in-the-Box' striker is another throwback type of player who perhaps existed more in a previous era of football. The classic commentary line would be that this player is not seen for large periods of games but they provide the critical touch in the penalty area to score a decisive goal. The ‘fox in the box’ striker seems to have an innate ability to position themself where the ball ultimately ends up, and they do so to with a natural instinct to be in the right place at the right time. Most of their goals are from close range and their positional sense is without doubt their most valuable asset. A Goal Poacher is another name for a Fox-in-the-Box player (they are essentially one in the same).


Famous Fox-in-the-Box players include:

Gary Lineker

 Leônidas da Silva 

Denis Law

Jimmy Greaves


Source Information:

https://footballdna.co.uk/the-role-of-the-striker-in-football/


Rules of the Game

The Off-Side Rule

  A player is in an offside position if: he is nearer to his opponents' goal line than both the ball and the second last opponent.


 

You can't be offside if:

  • You receive the ball directly from a goal kick, a throw-in or a corner
  • You are in your own half of the pitch
  • You are level with the second last or last two opponents
  • You are level with or behind the ball
  • You are not actively involved in play. 


For any offside offence, the referee awards an indirect free-kick to the opposing team, to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred.


Source Information: https://www.tips-on-soccer.com/official_soccer_rules.html


Source Information: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/rules_and_equipment/4993924.stm

Yellow Cards

A referee holds a yellow card in the air to signal a disciplinary warning. If a player breaks a rule, a yellow card serves as a reminder to the offending player to exhibit caution going forward. 


 A number of actions can result in a yellow card. A reckless tackle, arguing with an official, faking an injury, wasting time or any act of unsportsmanlike conduct can earn a yellow card. 


 Receiving two yellow cards in a single match equates to a red card and an automatic and immediate ejection from the match. 


Source Information: https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/40519132/what-yellow-cards-red-cards-soccer

Red Cards

 For more serious offenses, a referee uses a red card to discipline players. 


 A player can receive a red card for a wide range of misconduct or unsportsmanlike behavior during a match. Violent actions, abusive, offensive or insulting language, spitting or deliberately denying the opposing team a goal-scoring opportunity by committing a handball foul are all offenses that can warrant a red card. 


 The consequences of a red card can be significantly detrimental to a team. Players who receive a red card are immediately ejected from the field of play and are unable to compete in the remainder of the match. In the FIFA World Cup, players are also banned from starting in the next match. 


 Once a player is ejected, the manager of the offending team may not replace them with another player. So the team must compete with one fewer player than the opposing team for the rest of the match. 


Source Information: https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/40519132/what-yellow-cards-red-cards-soccer

Throw-ins

 A throw-in is a method of restarting play after the whole of the ball has gone out over the touchline, on the ground or in the air.  A throw-in is awarded to the opponents of the last player to touch the ball before it went out of play. 


 

Any player, including a goalkeeper, can take a throw-in.


A substitute who is replacing another player but has not yet entered the pitch or a player who had left the pitch (due to an injury or to change their shirt, etc.) can take the throw-in as long as at least part of one of their feet touches the touchline before they take it, as this means they have satisfied the Law requirement for entering the pitch.


 

The thrower must:

  • take the throw-in from the point on the touchline where the ball went out of play
  • stand and face the pitch
  • have part of each foot on or behind the touchline
  • throw the ball with both hands
  • throw the ball from behind and over the top of their head
  • not touch the ball again until another player has touched it


 The other team’s players must be at least 2 m (2 yds) away from the point on the touchline where the throw-in is to be taken. 


 The ball is in play when it enters the pitch. 


Source Information: https://www.tips-on-soccer.com/official_soccer_rules.html


Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/game-events/throw-in/

Free Kicks

  A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following six offences in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force: kicks or attempts to kick an opponent ,trips or attempts to trip an opponent etc. 


 A direct free kick is a free kick from which an attacking goal can be scored directly. 


 In opposition to a direct free kick, an indirect free kick is a set piece from which the attacking team is not allowed to shoot on goal directly. Instead, they must play a pass first before a player takes a shot. 


 That being said, there is a slight loophole that means you don't necessarily have to play a pinpoint pass from an indirect free kick. For a goal to be scored from an indirect free kick, a player from either side must touch the ball before it goes into the back of the net. So theoretically, a kick taker could smash the ball against a well-placed opponent to try and get a dangerous deflection that helps the ball over the line — as it's touched another player, the goal would count. 


For both direct and indirect free kicks, the ball must be stationary when the kick is taken and the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player. 


Source Information: https://www.tips-on-soccer.com/official_soccer_rules.html


Source Information: https://jobsinfootball.com/blog/direct-vs-indirect-free-kick/

Penalty Kicks

 A penalty kick is awarded to the other team when a player commits a direct-free-kick offence (usually a foul or handball) inside their own penalty area. A goal can be scored directly from a penalty kick. 


All players, except for the goalkeeper and the kicker, must be outside the penalty area and the semicircle (penalty arc), which is 9.15 m/10 yds from the penalty spot. They cannot go inside the penalty arc or penalty area until the ball is in play (i.e. the ball is kicked and clearly moves).


The kicker must be clearly identified so that the referee and the goalkeeper know who is taking the kick.


Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/offences-sanctions/penalty-kick/


Corner Kicks

 A corner kick is the restart of play after the whole of the ball has gone out over the goal line (but not into the goal), on the ground or in the air, and it was last touched by a defending-team player. 


 The corner kick is taken by the attacking team from the corner area on the side of the pitch where the ball went out of play. 


 

When the corner kick is taken, the ball must be:

  • stationary (not moving
  • inside the corner area or on or overhanging the corner arc


 All opponents must be at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the corner arc. 


 The ball is in play when it is kicked and clearly moves. 


 The kicker cannot touch the ball again until another player from either team has touched it. 


 A goal is awarded if the ball goes directly into the opponent’s goal. 


 Attacking-team players cannot be offside from a corner kick. 


Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/game-events/corner-kick/

Substitutes and Substitutions

 A substitution takes place when a player on the pitch is replaced by a substitute. Substitutes, also known as ‘subs’, are extra players who may replace their team-mates during a game. The substitutes remain in the technical area unless they are warming up.


  

Competition rules:

  • determine how many substitutes a team can:
    • name on the team list
    • use during a game
  • may allow each team to use one additional substitute and substitution opportunity in extra time
  • may allow each team to use one additional permanent concussion substitution to replace a player with concussion or suspected concussion


 At lower levels of the game, some competitions allow rolling/return substitutions, which means a player who has been substituted can return to the game. 


 The names of the substitutes must be given to the referee before the game starts. 


 In senior football, each team is usually allowed to use up to five substitutes and usually has a maximum of three opportunities to make a substitution (excluding during half-time, the period between full-time and the start of extra time, and half-time in extra time). 


 In the interests of player welfare, some competitions also allow each team to make an additional permanent concussion substitution when a player has concussion or suspected concussion. Making a concussion substitution does not affect the team’s number of ‘normal substitutions’ (or substitution opportunities) but the other team gets an extra ‘normal substitution’ (and substitution opportunity). 


 

  • A substitution can only occur when the game is stopped and with the referee’s permission
  • The player being substituted must:
    • leave the pitch at the nearest point on the boundary line or quickly at the halfway line (unless already off the pitch)
    • go straight to the bench/technical area or the dressing room and remain off the pitch 
  • The substitute must only enter the pitch:
    • after receiving the referee’s signal
    • after the substituted player has left the pitch
    • at the halfway line
  • Once the substituted player has left the pitch and the substitute has entered the pitch, the substitution is completed and cannot be changed (except in the case of rolling/return substitutions)


Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/game-events/substitutes/

Extra-time

 A football match consists of two equal halves, usually of 45 minutes each (both halves of normal match time equal 90 minutes in total). At lower levels, especially in youth/children’s football, the halves may be shorter. At the end of each half, the referee will add on the time that was ‘lost’ because of substitutions, injuries, disciplinary action, goal celebrations, time-wasting, etc. 


Where a game requires a winning team and the scores are level at the end of normal time, competition rules may require two halves of extra time to be played, usually each half of extra time is 15 minutes (both halves of extra time equal 30 minutes in total) .


 Where teams want to have shorter halves (because of fading light, a late kick-off, etc.), both teams and the referee must agree before the game starts on how long the two halves will last. 


 Between the two halves, there is a half-time break of up to 15 minutes. The half-time break can only be cancelled with the agreement of all players and the referee. 


 Any change to the length of the halves and the half-time break must comply with competition rules and should be reported to the competition organizers after the game. 


 

At the end of each half (in normal time and extra time), the referee must add on all time ‘lost’ due to stoppages, which are usually the result of:

  • substitutions
  • injuries
  • time-wasting
  • goal celebrations
  • red and yellow cards
  • drinks and cooling breaks
  • delays for video assistant referee checks and reviews
  • other major delays due to spectators entering the pitch, floodlight failure, etc.


 At the end of each half, the fourth official (if there is one) uses a board (usually the substitution board) to show the amount of additional time decided by the referee. If there is no fourth official/substitution board, the referee should indicate the amount of additional time, usually with their fingers. 


 

The referee:

  • cannot reduce the amount of additional time once it has been decided
  • must increase the amount of additional time for any further time ‘lost’ due to stoppages during additional time itself


 If a penalty kick is awarded at the end of a half, time must be allowed for the penalty kick to be taken. 


 Should the scores still be level after extra time, the game will go to penalty shoot-outs.


 There is a break before the start of extra time and before penalties. 


Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/game-events/playing-times/

The Golden Goal Rule

 Introduced in the 1990s by the world football governing body FIFA, it was hoped that the ruling would promote attacking football in extra-time - but it ended up having the opposite result instead. 


 The Golden Goal Rule system was simple - the first team to score the first goal in extra-time won the game. There was no need for penalty shoot-outs afterwards. It was a dramatic way to end a fiercely tied contested match.


 It decided the 1996 European Championship as Germany beat the Czech Republic thanks to Oliver Bierhoff’s goal. 


 France 98 was the first World Cup to use it, and the hosts were the benefactors in the last-16 against Paraguay. 


 David Trezeguet won Euro 2000 with a Golden Goal against Italy. 


 The 2002 World Cup saw three golden goals with Senegal beating Sweden and South Korea beating Italy in the Round of 16 with the rule. 


 Senegal then lost to Turkey in the quarter-finals of the same tournament. 


 But the rule just wasn't working the way it was designed and sides were increasingly getting more defensive in extra-time, fearful of conceding rather than being encouraged to attack. 


The Silver Goal Rule


 FIFA tried the silver goal in 2003 as an alternative. This rule was created to ensure that the side which lead after the first-half of extra-time won the game. 


 That was poorly received too and they were forced to abandon the experiment. 


 Following Euro 2004, the whole idea was scrapped. 


 Now, all games last the full 30 minutes of extra time before heading to penalties. 


 Therefore, any number of goals can be scored in extra time before a penalty shoot-out. 


Source Information: https://talksport.com/football/395155/what-was-the-golden-goal-rule-world-cup-2022-qat

Penalty Shoot-outs and Sudden Death

 Penalty shootouts are some of the most nerve-wracking and stressful situations to be in – for both players and the viewers sitting anxiously at home.


 Penalties (penalty shoot-out) are taken after a match has ended (with or without extra time, depending on the competition rules), the scores are level and a winning team is needed. 


  Each team takes up to five kicks, which are taken alternately. If one team scores more goals than the other team could possibly score even if they were to score all their remaining kicks, they are the winners. If the initial five kicks do not produce a winner, the penalties continue into ‘sudden death’, where single kicks are taken alternately until one team has scored more than the other team after the same number of kicks. 


 If a player is not ready to take a kick (e.g. they are off the pitch), another player who has not already taken a kick must take it. 


 If the kicker commits an offence, their kick is recorded as missed (whether or not they score). 


 Yellow cards and warnings issued to players and team officials during the game are not carried forward into penalties, but a player who is shown a red card during the game cannot take part. 


 Players, substitutes, substituted players and team officials can be shown a red or yellow card during penalties. 


 Only players who are playing at the end of the game (including those who are off the pitch injured, changing boots, etc.) are allowed to take part. The teams do not have to tell the referee the order of their kickers. 


 Everyone else (substitutes, team officials, etc.) must be off the pitch.


 If one team has more players than the other team (e.g. because a player was sent off or injured and not replaced), they must reduce their team to the same number as the other team and the referee must be told which player(s) is/are not taking part. 


 No substitutions are allowed except for a goalkeeper who is ill/injured. 


 A goalkeeper who is ill/injured before or during penalties can be substituted if their team has not used all its substitutes or they have a player who had been excluded to make the number of players in each team equal. Otherwise, one of the on-field players must replace the goalkeeper. 


 

The referee:

  • tosses a coin to decide which goal to use (unless one goal cannot be used, e.g. lots of water on the pitch, security reasons, etc.)
  • tosses the coin again and the captain that wins the toss chooses whether to take the first or second kick


 

During the kicks


All players except for the two goalkeepers and the kicker must be in the center circle.


Each kicker taking a kick must be clearly identified.


 

The ball:

  • must be touching or overhanging the center of the penalty spot
  • must be stationary (not moving) before the kick is taken


 

The goalkeeper:

  • must face the ball
  • must be on the goal line and between the goalposts
  • can move along the goal line and/or jump up and down, as long as at least part of each foot is on or above the line, until the ball is kicked
  • must not behave in a way that unfairly distracts the kicker, e.g. delay the taking of the kick or touch the goalposts, crossbar or goal net
  • must have at least part of one foot touching, in line with, or behind the goal line when the ball is kicked


 The other goalkeeper must wait on the junction of the goal line and the penalty area line (on the same side as the assistant referee, if there is one). Any of the players taking part in the penalties may change places with the goalkeeper, as long as the referee is informed. 


 

The kicker:

  • can stop and start during their run-up to the ball
  • must not stop or feint (pretend to kick the ball) at the end of their run-up – they must kick the ball immediately
  • must kick the ball forwards (but can backheel it towards the goal)
  • cannot touch the ball again


 

The referee:

  • makes sure that the ball is in the correct position
  • blows the whistle for the kick to be taken
  • carefully watches the kicker and the goalkeeper (the assistant referee will usually also watch the goalkeeper and check whether the ball crosses the goal line)
  • keeps a record of each kicker (name and/or number), as well as who scores and who misses


 

The kick is completed when the ball:

  • enters the goal
  • stops moving
  • is saved by or rebounds off the goalkeeper
  • rebounds off a goalpost, the crossbar or a corner flag post and has no chance of going into the goal
  • goes out of play

or

  • when the referee stops play for an offence


Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/game-events/penalty-shoot-out/


Source Information: https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/how-do-penalty-shootouts-work-rules-of-soccer-format-explained/1sr4qwpaaiw5x1mqh55c2ar6mt

Kick Off and Goal Kicks

 A kick-off is the start or restart of the game and involves a player kicking the ball from the center spot.


A kick-off is taken:

  • at the beginning of each half of normal time
  • at the beginning of each half of extra time
  • after a goal has been scored


 

The kickoff is taken at the center of the football field with the ball placed at the center circle mark.


Before the initial kickoff, the referee does a coin flip. The winning team gets to decide between taking the kickoff or choosing the goal post they want to attack during the first half. 


 If a team chooses a goal to attack but losses the coin toss, it gets to take the kick-off at the start of the second half. Note, in the second half, the teams attack opposite goals by changing ends. 


 Generally, a team decides to take the kickoff after winning the coin toss. However, in some cases, a team may decide to start the game from one particular side. Then the other team kicks the ball to start the game. 


 Such a decision is usually based on weather conditions. In case a strong wind is blowing in one direction, the team can try to score by taking advantage of that. Or else, they might want to start the game by playing from the side where most of their supporters are based. 


 Other than a kickoff, the game can be restarted by throw-ins, goal kicks, direct and indirect free kicks, penalty kicks, and corner kicks. Apart from these restarts, the game can also get restarted by a dropped ball. This is performed by the referee or a goalkeeper. 


 

While the process of kickoff may seem ceremonial, there are quite a few rules that guide it. Listed below are the soccer kickoff rules for FIFA soccer tournaments and matches.

  • Except for the player taking the kickoff, all other players should remain in their own half of the field.
  • The players of the opposing team should maintain at least 10 yards (9.15 meters) distance from the ball until the kickoff happens and the ball is in play. The soccer ball is in play when it gets kicked and clearly moves on the field of play. Once the ball is in play, all restrictions are lifted and any player can move forward to gain possession.
  • The ball should remain stationary on the center mark and should be kicked only when the referee gives the signal. The player can kick the ball in any direction during the kickoff.
  • A player can score a goal directly from a kickoff.


 

Note the player taking the kickoff cannot touch the ball again until it has touched another player. So, the kicker can pass the ball to a teammate but cannot dribble with it. 

In case of such an offense, the referee can award an indirect or direct free kick to the opposition. In case any other offense is committed during the kickoff, it is retaken. In case a soccer player intentionally delays the kickoff by taking too long to kick the ball, they can be shown a yellow card.


 It is possible for a team to gain a psychological advantage by making a sharp move toward the opponent’s goal during a kickoff. This will demonstrate self-confidence and the will to dominate the game. 


 Moreover, many players might lack concentration during the opening moments of a soccer match. Teams can take advantage of this by making a quick attack. However, this requires giving each player a definite role during the kickoff process. 


 

Kickoff Strategy 1

One common kickoff strategy is to secure possession by passing the ball back to the defenders. Then an attack can be organized by passing the ball to a midfielder and moving forward. However, the opponent can press forward and try to gain possession in the upper half of the playing field.


 

Kickoff Strategy 2

A more offensive strategy is to play the ball sideways to a teammate. This can generate an attacking move, allowing the team to move up the pitch quickly and shift the play into the opposition’s half. However, make sure to place enough defensive cover to stop a counterattack.

There are various ways of generating an attack from a kickoff that can catch the opponents off-guard. One way is to let one of the wingers move forward from the side. The attacking players move ahead simultaneously to collect a cross from the winger.


 

Kickoff Strategy 3

Pass the ball to a player who can kick it over a long distance, to one side of the field toward the opposition’s goal. At the same time, line up several players who will move to that side to keep possession. The idea is to pin the opposition players to one side and test their goalkeeper by taking an early shot at the goal.



Goal Kicks

 A goal kick is the restart of play after the whole of the ball has gone out over the goal line (but not into the goal), on the ground or in the air, and was last touched by an opposition attacking-team player.  


 A goal kick is taken by the defending team from anywhere in the goal area. 


 The ball must be stationary (not moving). 


 All of the opponents must be outside the penalty area until the ball is kicked, unless the kick is taken so quickly that they do not have time to leave the penalty area. 


 

The ball:

  • is in play when it is kicked and clearly moves
  • does not have to leave the penalty area before it can be played by another player


The kicker cannot touch the ball again until another player has touched it.



Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/game-events/kick-off/


Source Information: https://opengoaaalusa.com/blogs/news/what-is-a-soccer-kickoff?srsltid=AfmBOorlqn3xh2KA564Hkpc2oBdoE_U66Md-iYwH3sxOg0iA-3E_cDrs


Source Information: https://www.footballrules.com/game-events/goal-kick/

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