Question 1

What is the most important defensive principle to teach first?

Accepted Answer

Delay. Teaching players to slow down the attacker gives teammates time to recover and prevents direct goal-scoring opportunities. Once players can delay effectively, you can layer in positioning, forcing direction, and when to tackle.

Question 2

How do I stop my team pushing up too high and getting caught on the counter?

Accepted Answer

Set clear pressing triggers and recovery runs. If the press is not on (trigger not met), the team drops into a mid-block. Practice transition moments in training so players recognise when to press and when to recover.

Question 3

Should I teach zonal or man-marking?

Accepted Answer

It depends on age and level. Younger players often learn through man-marking as it gives clear responsibility. As players mature, zonal defending teaches better positioning and tactical awareness. Many teams use a hybrid system.

Question 4

How can I improve my tackling timing?

Accepted Answer

Practice patience. Watch the ball, not the attacker's feet. Wait for the moment the ball is slightly away from their body, then commit. Tackling too early lets them skip past you.

Question 5

What is the best attacking formation?

Accepted Answer

There is no single best formation. It depends on your players' strengths. A 4-3-3 offers width and central control, a 4-2-3-1 provides a strong attacking midfielder, and a 3-5-2 creates central overloads. Choose based on your squad.

Question 6

How do I create more goal-scoring chances?

Accepted Answer

Focus on getting players into the final third more often. Practice combination play, overlapping runs, and quick transitions. Encourage players to shoot when in good positions rather than overplaying.

Question 7

Why does my team struggle to break down deep defences?

Accepted Answer

Deep defences eliminate space. You need patience, width to stretch them, and movement to create gaps. Practice playing through compact spaces with quick passes and third-man runs.

Question 8

How can I improve my finishing under pressure?

Accepted Answer

Practice finishing drills with a defender closing you down. Train yourself to stay composed, pick your spot early, and commit to the finish. Repetition under pressure builds confidence.

Question 9

What is the difference between a formation and a system?

Accepted Answer

A formation is the starting shape (e.g., 4-3-3). A system is how the team plays within that shape, including pressing triggers, build-up patterns, and defensive organisation. The same formation can be played in many different systems.

Question 10

Should youth teams play with formations?

Accepted Answer

Young children (U7-U9) benefit from free play without rigid positions. From U10 onwards, introducing basic shapes helps players understand space and positioning. Keep it simple and let the game be the teacher.

Question 11

How do I know when to change tactics during a match?

Accepted Answer

Change when what you're doing clearly isn't working, when the opposition makes a change that hurts you, or when game state demands it (chasing a goal, protecting a lead). Avoid changing too early or too often.

Question 12

What is positional play?

Accepted Answer

Positional play is a style where players occupy specific zones to create passing options and overloads. It emphasises control through positioning rather than individual dribbling. Pep Guardiola's Barcelona and Manchester City are famous examples.

Question 13

Can I play a back three with youth players?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but ensure players understand their roles. A back three requires good communication, positional discipline, and wing-backs who can get up and down. It can be effective if coached well, but a back four is often simpler for younger players.

Question 14

How long should a grassroots training session be?

Accepted Answer

U5-U7: 30-45 minutes. U8-U10: 45-60 minutes. U11-U12: 60-75 minutes. Younger children have shorter attention spans and tire more quickly. Keep sessions engaging and finish before energy drops.

Question 15

Should I focus on winning at grassroots level?

Accepted Answer

No. Development and enjoyment come first. Players who love the game will stay in it longer and develop better long-term. Winning is a byproduct of good development, not the goal itself.

Question 16

How do I manage a team with big ability differences?

Accepted Answer

Use small-sided games where stronger players are challenged (e.g., must use weak foot, one-touch only) and weaker players get more touches. Rotate positions so everyone experiences different roles. Celebrate effort, not just ability.

Question 17

What qualifications do I need to coach grassroots football?

Accepted Answer

In England, a minimum of FA Level 1 or Introduction to Coaching Football (ICF) is recommended. Many clubs also require a DBS check and safeguarding course. Check your local FA for specific requirements.

Question 18

What do scouts look for in academy trials?

Accepted Answer

Technical ability, decision-making, athleticism, coachability, and personality. Scouts want players who can receive coaching, work hard, and fit the club culture. Being the best player on your current team isn't enough; they assess potential, not just current ability.

Question 19

How can I get scouted by a professional academy?

Accepted Answer

Play for a good local club, attend trials and ID camps, perform well in showcases and tournaments, and ask your current coach to recommend you. Scouts watch grassroots matches, so consistent performance matters more than one-off brilliance.

Question 20

What age do academies start scouting players?

Accepted Answer

Category 1 academies in England can register players from U9 onwards, but serious scouting often begins around U11-U13. Some clubs monitor players earlier through development centres. It varies by club and country.

Question 21

Should I specialise in one position as a youth player?

Accepted Answer

Not too early. Playing multiple positions builds football intelligence and versatility. Specialisation typically happens around U15-U16 when physical and technical attributes become clearer. Before that, experience different roles.

Question 22

How do I know if my academy is developing me properly?

Accepted Answer

Look for individual feedback, structured training plans, exposure to different coaches and styles, opportunities to play at appropriate levels, and holistic support (education, welfare, psychology). If you're not improving or enjoying it, speak to your parents and coaches.

Question 23

How often should I train to improve quickly?

Accepted Answer

Quality matters more than quantity. 4-5 focused sessions per week with proper rest is better than training every day and burning out. Include technical work, physical conditioning, and recovery. Young players need more recovery than adults.

Question 24

Can I improve my speed and acceleration?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Speed has technical, physical, and tactical components. Work on sprint mechanics, explosive strength, acceleration drills, and anticipation (reading the game to get a head start). Genetics set limits, but most players can improve significantly.

Question 25

What is the fastest way to develop my weak foot?

Accepted Answer

Use it constantly. In training, force yourself to use your weak foot for passing, shooting, and dribbling. Start simple and build complexity. It will feel awkward at first, but with consistent repetition, your brain adapts.

Question 26

How important is strength training for footballers?

Accepted Answer

Very important, but age-appropriate. Young players (pre-puberty) should focus on bodyweight exercises and movement patterns. Post-puberty, structured strength training improves power, injury resilience, and physicality. Always prioritise technique over heavy loads.

Question 27

How long should a pre-match warm-up be?

Accepted Answer

15-20 minutes for youth players, 20-30 minutes for adults. Include dynamic stretching, movement prep, ball work, and a few short sprints. Finish 5 minutes before kick-off so players can mentally prepare.

Question 28

What should I say in a half-time team talk?

Accepted Answer

Keep it short (2-3 minutes). Highlight 1-2 things that are working, identify 1-2 things to adjust, and set a clear focus for the second half. Avoid overloading players with information when emotions are high.

Question 29

How do I analyse the opposition with limited time?

Accepted Answer

Focus on their shape, key players, and set-piece routines. If you can watch them play once or see match footage, great. If not, brief your players on what to expect in the first 10 minutes and adjust from there.

Question 30

When is the best time to make a substitution?

Accepted Answer

When a player is tired, injured, or underperforming. Tactically, subs work well after opposition changes, when you need fresh legs, or when the game state demands it (chasing or protecting a lead). Avoid leaving it too late.

Question 31

How do I deal with parents who disagree with my coaching decisions?

Accepted Answer

Listen to their concerns, explain your reasoning calmly, and set boundaries. Most parent issues come from lack of communication. Have a clear policy on playing time, selection, and feedback. Be consistent and fair.

Question 32

How do I build team culture with limited time together?

Accepted Answer

Start with clear values and expectations. Create small rituals (pre-match routines, celebrations). Involve players in decision-making. Consistency matters more than grand gestures. Even one training session a week can build strong culture if it's intentional.

Question 33

What should I look for in a team captain?

Accepted Answer

Leadership, communication, work ethic, and respect from teammates. The captain doesn't need to be the best player, but they must represent the team's values and set the standard on and off the pitch.

Question 34

How do I motivate a player who has lost confidence?

Accepted Answer

Give them small, achievable tasks to rebuild confidence. Praise effort, not just outcomes. Remind them of past successes. Sometimes a change of position or role can help. Be patient; confidence takes time to rebuild.

Question 35

How do I manage players who miss training regularly?

Accepted Answer

Set clear attendance expectations from the start. Those who train play. If someone consistently misses without good reason, have a private conversation about commitment. Be fair but firm. Team culture suffers when non-attendees get rewarded.

Question 36

What is the best tactic in Football Manager?

Accepted Answer

There is no single best tactic. The match engine rewards balanced systems that suit your players. Gegenpress works if you have high work rate and stamina. Possession football needs technical players. Plug-and-play tactics exist, but adapting to your squad is more effective.

Question 37

How do I find wonderkids in FM?

Accepted Answer

Use the player search filtered by age (15-19), potential ability, and scout reports. Focus on South America and Africa for bargains. Sign players on trial before committing. Look for high determination and professionalism, not just attributes.

Question 38

Should I manage training myself or delegate to my assistant?

Accepted Answer

Delegate for simplicity, but customise if you want control. Focus training on weak attributes and match preparation. Overtraining causes injuries, so balance intensity with recovery. Individual training can accelerate development for key players.

Question 39

How important are team talks in FM?

Accepted Answer

Fairly important. They can boost or harm morale. Praise when winning or playing well, encourage when losing but playing well, and demand more if the performance is poor. Learn which players respond to aggression vs. support.

Question 40

At what age should children start playing football?

Accepted Answer

Children can start playing informally from age 3-4 with fun, unstructured games. Organised football typically begins around age 5-6. Focus on enjoyment and movement, not tactics or winning.

Question 41

How do I know if my child has potential to play professionally?

Accepted Answer

Look for consistent performance, coachability, love of the game, and resilience. Physical development matters less at young ages due to varying growth rates. Scouts look for technical ability, decision-making, and personality. Most importantly, let them enjoy it without pressure.

Question 42

Should my child play for multiple teams?

Accepted Answer

It depends. Playing for one team builds relationships and consistency. Playing for multiple teams offers more game time and variety. Beware of overload; young players need rest and time for other activities. Quality over quantity.

Question 43

How much football is too much for a child?

Accepted Answer

The FA recommends no more than one organised match per day and allowing at least one rest day per week. Overuse injuries are common in children who play too much without recovery. Listen to your child; if they're tired or losing interest, reduce the load.

Question 44

Should young players play up an age group?

Accepted Answer

Only if they're consistently dominating their own age group and the step up offers appropriate challenge without overwhelming them. Playing up can accelerate development but also increase injury risk and harm confidence if they're not ready.

Question 45

What is a pressing trigger?

Accepted Answer

A pressing trigger is a specific moment that signals the team to press. Examples include a bad touch, a backwards pass, or the ball reaching a weak player. Clear triggers ensure the whole team presses together, not just one player chasing.

Question 46

How fit do players need to be to press effectively?

Accepted Answer

Very fit. High-intensity pressing requires excellent aerobic and anaerobic conditioning. Players must be able to sprint repeatedly and recover quickly. Younger players can press in bursts; professionals sustain it for longer periods.

Question 47

What is the difference between pressing and counter-pressing?

Accepted Answer

Pressing is winning the ball back when the opposition has settled possession. Counter-pressing (gegenpress) is immediately winning it back after losing it, before the opposition can organise. Counter-pressing is more intense and happens in transition.

Question 48

Can youth teams press effectively?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but keep it simple. Teach basic triggers and zonal pressing rather than complex man-orientated systems. Young players tire quickly, so press in short bursts rather than for 90 minutes.

Question 49

What is the purpose of possession football?

Accepted Answer

Possession controls the game, tires the opposition, creates space, and reduces the time you defend. But possession for possession's sake achieves nothing. The aim is to create chances through patient, purposeful build-up.

Question 50

What are rondos and why are they useful?

Accepted Answer

Rondos are small-sided possession games (e.g., 4v2, 5v2) where players keep the ball in a tight space. They develop quick passing, awareness, movement, and composure under pressure. Barcelona famously use rondos in every training session.

Question 51

How do I teach players to play out from the back?

Accepted Answer

Start simple: goalkeeper to centre-back to midfielder. Gradually add pressure. Teach players to recognise when to play short and when to go long. Always have a safety option (e.g., switch play or long ball to striker).

Question 52

Should youth teams play possession football?

Accepted Answer

It depends. Possession football teaches patience, technique, and decision-making, which benefit long-term development. However, it requires good technical players and understanding. Don't force it if your players aren't ready; direct play can be more effective and fun.

Question 53

What is the key to successful counter-attacking?

Accepted Answer

Speed of transition. Win the ball, play it forward quickly (within 3-5 seconds), and commit players forward before the opposition can recover. Quality over quantity; three attackers against four defenders can still create chances if executed quickly.

Question 54

Do I need fast players to counter-attack?

Accepted Answer

It helps, but pace isn't everything. Intelligent movement, quick decision-making, and early passes can compensate for lack of raw speed. The fastest counter-attacks come from smart anticipation, not just running speed.

Question 55

What formation works best for counter-attacking?

Accepted Answer

Formations with quick forwards and wide players (e.g., 4-4-2, 4-2-3-1, 5-3-2). You need pace in wide areas and players willing to run in behind. The formation matters less than the players' ability to transition quickly.

Question 56

Can possession teams also counter-attack?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The best teams transition in both directions. Liverpool under Klopp and Manchester City under Guardiola both dominate possession but counter-attack ruthlessly when they win the ball in dangerous areas.

Question 57

How important are set pieces?

Accepted Answer

Very important. 30-40% of goals come from set pieces at professional level. They're even more important at grassroots and youth level where defences are less organised. Spending 10-15 minutes per session on set pieces pays off.

Question 58

Should I use zonal or man-marking on corners?

Accepted Answer

Both have merits. Zonal marking keeps players in dangerous areas and requires less communication. Man-marking gives clear responsibility and works well with disciplined players. Many teams use a hybrid system (zonal with key attackers man-marked).

Question 59

What makes a good corner routine?

Accepted Answer

Movement to create space, quality delivery, and players attacking the ball. Simple routines often work better than complex ones. Short corners work if you have technical players; delivered corners suit teams with aerial presence.

Question 60

How do I practice penalties?

Accepted Answer

Practice under pressure. After a hard training session, ask players to take penalties while tired. Create consequences (loser does extra sprints). Penalties are mental as much as technical; simulate match pressure to prepare players.

Question 61

Can throw-ins be used tactically?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Long throws can be as dangerous as corners. Quick throw-ins catch opponents off guard. Coaches like Tony Pulis and Rory Delap used long throws devastatingly. Practice routines and quality delivery like any other set piece.

Question 62

How do I protect a 1-0 lead?

Accepted Answer

Don't just sit back and defend. Keep the ball, slow the tempo, use substitutions to waste time, and stay compact. Inviting pressure for 20 minutes rarely works. Control the game through possession and territory.

Question 63

When is the best time to make a substitution?

Accepted Answer

When a player is tired, injured, or underperforming. Tactically, subs are effective after the opposition makes a change, at natural breaks (after goals, injuries), or when you need fresh legs. Avoid leaving it too late.

Question 64

What should I do when my team is losing?

Accepted Answer

Assess why you're losing first. Is it tactics, effort, or quality? Change formation, bring on attacking players, push full-backs higher, or switch to more direct play. Avoid panic; stay calm and give clear instructions.

Football FAQ

Coaching

Playing

Scouting

FM

Drills

General

Can't Find Your Answer?