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Is the art of defending dead?
In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach podcast, Gary Curneen sits down with former Premier League and MLS center backs Danny Collins and Ike Opara to break down how the center back position has changed — and what might be getting lost along the way.
The conversation explores the evolution from defender-first to build-up quarterback, the influence of possession-based football, and the tension between philosophy and making the best decision in the moment. Danny and Ike share firsthand experiences from elite environments, discussing duels, mentality, physicality, decision-making under pressure, and why clean sheets still matter.
This episode dives into:
• How the role of the center back has evolved over the last 10–15 years
• The impact of building out from the back at youth and professional levels
• Whether defensive craft and mentality are being deprioritized
• Philosophy vs results in modern coaching
• What still defines an elite defender today
• Where defending might be heading next
If you coach defenders, work in player development, or want a deeper understanding of how modern football is reshaping defensive roles, this is a must-listen conversation.
Subscribe to Modern Soccer Coach for more long-form conversations, breakdowns, and insights from the game’s leading coaches and players.
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