Youth development experts Stephen Ganavas and talent scout Llew Davies discuss the purpose of youth development, the impact of clubs letting go promising youngsters, and highlight the most exciting players in different age groups. They explore the challenges of developing young footballers in the 21st century, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach and balanced growth. The conversation also touches on emerging talents like Tigo Land, Jao Neves, and Dean Hoisin, as well as successful youth development programs at clubs like Juventus.
Youth development emphasizes developing good people beside skilled players, enhancing community connections.
Clubs balance financial needs, emphasizing profit through player sales and adapting to the transfer market.
Clubs struggle with balancing tactical systems with player creativity and non-linear development paths, hindering holistic growth.
Deep dives
Evolution of Youth Development Pathways
Youth development in the 21st century has shifted focus from traditional concepts, adapting to modern needs. Clubs aim to develop players to supplement the first team, fostering connections with local fans and ensuring financial stability. The human aspect is increasingly highlighted, emphasizing developing good people alongside skilled players.
Financial Aspects and Player Profitability
Clubs use player development to balance financial needs, aiming for profit through player sales. The financial landscape influences player pathways, with a focus on asset development. The transfer market plays a crucial role in clubs' financial strategies, impacting player trajectories and opportunities.
Challenges and Balancing Development
Clubs face challenges in balancing tactical system integration with player creativity and adaptability. Pigeonholing players into specific systems may limit their overall development potential. Non-linear development paths are crucial, yet modern academies tend to follow set pathways, sometimes hindering individual growth. Clubs need to reevaluate the balance between short-term efficiency and long-term player development for holistic growth.
Changing Landscape of Youth Development
The focus in youth football is shifting towards developing technically proficient players rather than focusing solely on athleticism. Clubs are reevaluating their approach, emphasizing skill development over physical attributes. This shift is evident in the emergence of strikers like Razem's hoyland and Joshua Xerxay, who exhibit multifaceted abilities beyond just athleticism. Clubs are conducting internal analyses to tailor their academies to nurture players' growth at various stages, acknowledging the importance of a well-rounded development approach.
Diverse Pathways in Youth Development
Youth development pathways vary across nations and clubs, with no standardized approach to player development. The success of English football in producing talented players reflects the effectiveness of their current pathway. Emphasizing individual uniqueness and celebrating successful aspects of a system is crucial for player development. Welsh football's interlinked academy system with English clubs highlights the benefits of trusting and nurturing local talent over external recruitment, fostering opportunities for player growth within domestic leagues.
Jon Mackenzie is joined by Stephen Ganavas and Llew Davies to explore what youth development looks like in the 21st Century and to give some examples of exciting up-and-coming talents in various age groups.
What is the purpose of youth development?
We’re seeing teams letting promising youngsters go. How bad is this for the development of players?
What is Scouted Football?
Most exciting players: U-17, U-19, U-21, U-23?
This episode of the Tifo Football Podcast is presented by Jon Mackenzie, produced by Mike Zimmermann.