Modern Soccer Coach Podcast

A dynamic conversation explores blending positionalism and relationism in modern coaching. Discover how empowering players with freedom within structured principles enhances decision-making on the pitch. Learn about the risks of rigidity versus adaptability, and the importance of assessing player profiles. Dive into tactical insights on counter-pressing and creating a consistent attacking identity. Additionally, gain perspective on the growth of Canadian football and get practical advice on commitment and patience for coaches aiming for long-term success.

Tom Shields, STA Technical Director and youth soccer development expert, dives into the recent US youth soccer age-group registration change. He discusses how this shift from calendar-year to seasonal registration aims to enhance player development, aligning more closely with school years. Tom addresses common parental concerns about team placements and the transition for late-birthday players. He also shares his five-part communication framework to foster trust and collaboration among coaches and families, highlighting the need for professionalism and well-being in coaching.

Register for MSC Tactical Flexibility webinar: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/product-page/upcoming-webinar-how-to-coach-tactical-flexibility-in-an-attacking-manner Sign-Up for MSC Insider: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions In the final Modern Soccer Coach podcast of 2025, we step back from tactics and trends and ask a bigger question: What will the game look like in 2026 and beyond? Rather than reviewing downloads or highlights, this episode focuses on three ideas from 2025 that point directly toward the future of soccer coaching and player development. Across the year on Modern Soccer Coach, conversations consistently returned to the same themes: clarity over complexity, individuality over rigid structure, and environments over outcomes. In this episode, we explore: • How modern game models may be limiting individual development • Why more content does not always create better coaches • The growing importance of methodology and clarity • How youth environments shape the future of the professional game This episode is for coaches who want to think beyond the next session and reflect on where the game is actually heading. Thank you for listening throughout 2025. We hope you stay with us in 2026. - Gary Curneen

Danny Collins, a former Premier League center-back turned coach, and Ike Opara, a seasoned MLS defender, revisit the evolution of the center-back role. They tackle how defender-first mindsets have shifted to possession play and the impact of Pep Guardiola's tactics on youth training. The duo dives into the necessity of balancing technical skills with traditional defensive craft, discusses the current standards for elite defenders, and speculates on the future of defending, weighing the risks of playing out from the back. It's a deep dive for anyone involved in soccer coaching.

Access full webinar here: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/pro... Check out Duktig Brand here: https://www.duktigbrand.com/ In this episode, Gary Curneen is joined by Luis Swisher, U18/U19 coach at St. Louis City SC (MLS), to break down one of the most undervalued attacking moments in soccer: throw-ins. Most teams get 25–45 throw-ins per match, yet very few coach them with the same detail as build-up play, goal kicks, or corners. Luis explains why throw-ins should be treated as controlled attacking restarts, not throwaways — and how teaching intentions, space, and decision-making can lead to more possession, progression, and goal-scoring opportunities. We discuss: Why there are more throw-ins than corners — and why that matters Coaching the thrower as the “quarterback” Intentions vs predictable set routines How to train attacking throw-ins without killing session flow Scaling throw-in detail from youth to professional level Access full webinar here: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/post/how-throw-ins-can-create-goals-free-webinar Check out Duktig Brand here: https://www.duktigbrand.com/ In this episode, Gary Curneen is joined by Luis Swisher, U18/U19 coach at St. Louis City SC (MLS), to break down one of the most undervalued attacking moments in soccer: throw-ins. Most teams get 25–45 throw-ins per match, yet very few coach them with the same detail as build-up play, goal kicks, or corners. Luis explains why throw-ins should be treated as controlled attacking restarts, not throwaways — and how teaching intentions, space, and decision-making can lead to more possession, progression, and goal-scoring opportunities. We discuss: Why there are more throw-ins than corners — and why that matters Coaching the thrower as the “quarterback” Intentions vs predictable set routines How to train attacking throw-ins without killing session flow Scaling throw-in detail from youth to professional level Why risk, bravery, and learning matter in player development 🎥 Free attacking throw-ins presentation (no login required): https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/post/how-throw-ins-can-create-goals-free-webinar ⚽ Modern Soccer Coach Insider — full webinar library, sessions & weekly bonus content: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions 🤝 Podcast sponsor: Duktig Brand Duktig produces premium notebooks and accessories for soccer coaches and players, featuring waterproof stone paper and professional designs. https://www.duktigbrand.com/ If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, and if you’re listening on audio, a quick rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify really helps support the show.

Zone 14 Coaching creates high-quality coach and player journals designed to help you plan with intention, reflect with purpose, and track progress all season long. MSC listeners get $5 off with code: ModernSoccer5 Learn more: zone14coaching.com This week Gary sits down with Fred Lipka, Technical Director of Youth Development at Major League Soccer. Few people have influenced the MLS academy landscape more over the past decade, and this conversation goes deep into what’s working, what’s broken, and what needs to change in US player and coach development. Fred shares powerful insight on why he believes American soccer has been “built upside down,” why the weekly rhythm should always be five days to develop, one day to perform, and why judging coaches solely by results is holding back both player development and coaching standards. We dive into: • The real purpose of youth competition • Why US soccer over-teaches with big numbers • The lack of 1v1 wingers and aggressive fullbacks • Touch limits, robotic players, and constraints-led training • Relative age effect and selecting the “big kids” too early • Why domestic coaches should stop feeling inferior • Inside the MLS–French Federation (EFCL) course • The rise of US talent and why Europe is watching • How MLS academies are building community, not isolation Fred’s honesty in this episode is exceptional, and his clarity on how to optimise the individual player — not just the team — is something every coach can learn from. If you enjoyed this episode, please: • Like the video • Subscribe to the channel • Leave a comment — Do you agree with Fred’s view on development vs results? Thanks for supporting the Modern Soccer Coach community.

Ike Opara, a former professional center back and two-time MLS Defender of the Year, delves into youth player development and the need for flexibility over rigid systems. He argues that today's players require exposure to diverse tactical principles to foster creativity and independent thinking. Opara emphasizes the importance of problem-solving skills and growth mindset for success. He also highlights how reflective practices through journals can enhance player learning and relationships, paving the way for a more adaptable coaching landscape.

Per Mertesacker, a former Germany international and World Cup winner, now leads Arsenal's Academy. He discusses the Strong Young Gunners philosophy focused on person-first player development, blending high challenge with high care. Mertesacker emphasizes the significance of character in performance and the purity of the foundation phase, where enjoyment is key. He also addresses the importance of lifelong learning for staff and players, balancing creativity with structured frameworks, and preparing youth for life beyond football. A must-listen for anyone involved in player development!

Caique Andrade, a prominent analyst for Flamengo's U20 team, dives into the intense youth development culture at one of the world's top clubs. He reveals what it means to embody Flamengo's DNA, emphasizing creativity, pressure, and a high bar set by first-team standards. Caique shares insights on using video analysis effectively, adapting coaching styles, and the unique challenges faced by young players from diverse backgrounds. He also defends Brazil's creative football identity, urging a shift away from rigid European models.

Ray Power, a coach developer and consultant specializing in pressing and principles-based coaching, joins the discussion to challenge conventional coaching methods. He critiques the reliance on rigid patterns, arguing they stifle player creativity and adaptability. The conversation dives into the importance of training under pressure to enhance skills and decision-making. Ray emphasizes shifting from control to influence for more effective coaching, while also highlighting the need for personalized coach support and building a global elite coaching community.