When you receive the ball, what next? Play smart

Which topic is more important to train than the others? Is there any more crucial, or should they all be combined? In practice, we all isolate the specific objective to explain and focus on because after all, it must be applied in a game and match situation to check the level of play.

This week our focus is on first touch ball control. We can hear from many coaches that this is the most critical topic for every player. When you receive the ball, what to do next? Stopping the ball, directing the ball, or give it away with the first touch. What and how to do it when you are alone or under pressure?

This is a decision player has to make in every action. The player needs to see the situation on the pitch, anticipate the action and make the best possible move to keep possession. The coach should give his player information and options, but it is up to a player to deal with it in a real play.

We believe in sportsmanship and fairness; during the camp, we want to inspire our players to behave in that manner. Therefore, this week we are observing and suggesting facts of fair play. Hopefully, not only this week or at this camp, but for life.