Football Scholar

Whether luck plays a role in the development and success of academy players in football has been a topic of discussion for many years. While many believe that success in football is solely a result of talent, hard work, and dedication, others argue that luck plays a significant role in an academy footballer’s journey. #luck #PL2 #PDL2 #U18

Sometimes, it's easy to misunderstand a coach's helpful feedback as a personal attack, which can cause defensiveness. Parents and players put a lot of time, money, and emotions into improving their child's skills. When someone questions those skills, it can feel like an attack on all their hard work. #skills #feedback #defensiveness

Focusing on short-term goals can help young footballers manage their expectations. Working on simple skills, like improving their weaker foot, getting fitter, or aiming to score a certain number of goals in a match, can make playing football more enjoyable. #goals #expectations #baller #youthfootball #grassrootsfootball #grf

Remember that often, we are the ones who set our own limits. We let other people's opinions decide what we think we can do. However, the truth is we can achieve much more than we think. #limits #believe #achieve

When declining a clubs offer,it's important to balance your ambition with keeping good relationships. You should thank them for the offer, but also let them know you want to compete at a higher level. Be honest, but also polite, so you don't damage any relationships. #offer #pathways

Make the most of the football academy programme. Securing a playing opportunity with a professional club after your academy years can be very challenging if you're no longer in the system. Open trials can be difficult, with the travel and limited time to showcase your skills. #academy #opentrial #youthfootball #trials #efl #premierleague

How to deal with nervousness before a game? Stay focused and determined. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Picture yourself succeeding to build confidence. Do light exercise, deep breathing, or stretching to relax. #nervous #youthfootball #youthsoccer #futsal

An offer of a professional contract is a strong validation of your talent and potential. It's a recognition of your skills and a chance to develop your potential further. But it doesn't guarantee you'll become a professional footballer, so keep working hard to improve. #baller #tekkers #contract

Clubs hold trials to find players who are as good as or better than their current ones. So don't just go through the motions. Show an eagerness to follow instructions, work hard, and positively impact your team, even during drills. #baller #tekkers #trials

Your goal should be to grab any opportunity to play football and not just focus on your favourite position. Every minute on the field is valuable. Playing time, even in a less familiar position, provides crucial experience. Many successful footballers didn't start in the position they're famous for now. Their manager moved them from their preferred position to a different one. #baller #tekkers #futsal #youthsoccer ##Euro2024