Expectations for 2010

Today in soccer at the highest levels, players cover mor than eight miles, including 1.8 miles of high intensity sprinting, per game. The number of sprints in the English Premiership has double since 2002. People argue that these distances will increase by 20% by 2025! Players are moving faster over longer distances and are bigger, stronger and more resistant to injury than even five years ago.

Future Game

1. Speed of movement, number of sprints and distances covered by players are increasing. Speed reaction to the events in the game is increasing.
2. Ability to play one-touch football is improving, more craft and deception before receiving the ball and prior to passing are commonplace. All players are expected to be technically proficient.
3. Shorter passing, a "possesion-based" game and the ability to play into, inside and through congested areas are vital. Long pinpoint vertical passes over the "block" also are becoming imperative.
4. Counterattacking is a priority. Development of counterattack mentality upon winning the ball and upon losing the ball is key.
5. Zonal back four with a holding midfielder is the only constant. Flexibility and interchangeability ahead of these five players is the norm.

Future Player

1. Extended technical range. Ability to control difficult passes at difficult speed is vital. All players in all positions will need to be technically proficient.
2. Must be multi-positional.
3. Must have composure, awareness and ability to operate in congested areas and to use the body to shield and retain the ball under pressure.
4. Possess speed, agility and power
5. Must be capable in 1v1 situations and at the same time understand the team's playing philosophy.

In resume

1. First weeks of training will focus on conditioning with ball, 1v1, 2v1 and 2v2.
2. Every players have to be able to do 25 juggles and more
3. After our first tournament will start focusing in one-touch receiving and passing, 4v4 and 5v5

I will expect discipline, motivation and intelligence (do you know why you make a mistake?) and the desire to become better. You can expect from me to study the game development contextually as well as the highest levels, study outside the sport and be a lifetime seeker, try to teach the players in a fun environment and have fun with them!