Training Methodology
Tasks designed to transfer directly to the match
The aim is to develop players able to read the game, make decisions under pressure and adapt to different tactical contexts.
On the pitch
UD Alzira B — 2023/24 season
With the squad and on the bench during a match — UD Alzira B, National Youth League.
Methodological principles
How I design each task
In the design
- Game-based training
- Tactical contextualisation of every task
- Use of numerical superiorities and inferiorities
In the delivery
- High player involvement
- Active, continuous correction
- Direct transfer to the match
Task 01
Positional play 4v4+3
Tactical objective
Improve progression through the central lane, occupation of intermediate spaces and decision-making under pressure.
Space
20×20 metres divided into 3 vertical lanes.
Players
- 4 wide players (possession team)
- 3 interior players (jokers)
- 4 defending players
Description
The possession team must keep the ball using the wide players and the interior players to create passing lanes and progress through the middle. The interior players act as constant support between lines, facilitating the connection between zones, while the defending team tries to win back the ball and carry it out of the space.
Rules
- Maximum 2 touches for wide players
- 1–2 touches for interior players
- Must play through an interior player before switching lanes
- Bonus point for connecting with two interior players in a row
Behaviours to work on
- Body orientation before receiving
- Player profile between the lines
- Timing of the pass
- Creating passing lanes
- Third-man play
Coaching corrections
- Adjust distances between players
- Improve the receiver’s body shape
- Identify when to play inside or outside
- Increase circulation speed
Progression
Reduce the space or limit to 1 touch to increase difficulty.
Task 02
Transition and pressing after loss 6v4
Tactical objective
Improve reaction after losing the ball, immediate pressing and reducing space after defensive transition.
Space
30×25 metres with two mini-goals at each end.
Players
- 6 players in possession
- 4 defending players
Description
The possession team keeps the ball in a tight space with the aim of retaining possession. When the defending team wins the ball, they must finish in one of the mini-goals within a maximum of 5 seconds. After losing the ball, the attacking team must react immediately with collective pressing to prevent the opponent from finishing.
Rules
- Maximum 3 touches
- Must finish within 5 seconds of winning the ball
- If the possession team wins the ball back within 5 seconds, they score 1 point
Behaviours to work on
- Immediate activation after losing the ball
- Coordination in pressing
- Reducing space between lines
- Orientation of the press
- Communication between players
Coaching corrections
- Immediate reaction after losing the ball
- Short distances between players
- Activation of the player closest to the ball
- Covering for teammates
Progression
Reduce the space or add jokers to increase difficulty.
Want tasks designed for your team?
Session design and planning with direct transfer to your team’s playing model.