Modern Soccer Coach Podcast

MSC Special Offer Below!! https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/product-page/2025-special-offer-coach-bundle This week, Gary talks to current professional striker Conor Washington about the position and ways to potentially improve how it is coached from youth to senior level. With over 400 appearances at the professional level at clubs including Derby County and Queens Park Rangers, plus 40 caps at international level, Conor has experienced the game at the highest level and shares insights on what separates the best players. Also, there are a couple of twists in the conversation. Firstly, as a pro player Conor utilized and benefited from an individual coach that made an immediate improvement on his game. Now, as Conor starts to look ahead into the future, he's already started his Elite Attacking Coach program where he's supporting the next generation of attacking players. Conor discusses this and much more!

Todd Beane, leader of Tovo Academy and a prominent figure in coach development, shares invaluable insights on youth soccer. He emphasizes the critical role of decision-making and advocates for a more nuanced coaching approach. Todd discusses the importance of nurturing soccer intelligence through holistic training rather than isolated drills. He also highlights the need to empower grassroots coaches and redefine success by focusing on learning and joy. The conversation touches on the evolving soccer culture, drawing comparisons with international methodologies and emphasizing adaptive practices.

Please coaches, if you enjoy the work can you leave a rating and a review? Thanks so much! - Gary We are joined by Michael Paule-Carres Methodologist at RCD Espanyol de Barcelona. Michael's journey is a fascinating one. As an Honors Society student at Kalamazoo College, it looked like Michael was destined for a career in the lab as a chemist. But a change of heart and a brave step into a Spanish La Liga course opened up the doors for him to work at one of the best academies in Europe. In this interview, Michael discusses his journey, as well as sharing the insights to academy methodology at Espanyol.

Gary travels to Spain to talk to Bernat Mosquera again. Bernat currently works in Austria with LASK and has also worked at two Spainish tiers and in China, as well as the aspect of individual development. He discusses the complexity of Positional Play, along with ideas on how coaches can teach it more effectively in their own environments. Check out Bernat's new Final Third Course here: https://modern-coach-hub.teachable.com/p/final-third-actions You can follow Bernat here: www.linkedin.com/in/bernat-mosquera/

Gary is joined by Ray Power to discuss the intricacies of coaching styles and why we should potentially be a little more deliberate in the style we choose for the way we want to play. Implicit vs. Explicit Learning Styles! You can contact Ray if you would like to follow up below: power.ray@hotmail.co.uk

Hugo Vicente, a UEFA PRO License coach with over 20 years of experience, discusses the impact of AI and ChatGPT on football coaching. He emphasizes the importance of combining technology with human intuition to enhance coaching methodologies. The conversation covers how AI can revolutionize player development, improve communication, and provide tactical insights. Hugo also highlights the balance between data-driven strategies and traditional approaches while respecting the emotional aspects of player development. Tune in for real insights into modern coaching!

Sean McCafferty, the Academy Director at New York Red Bulls, delves into the club's innovative player development strategies. He discusses the integration of pressing styles and an attacking mindset, emphasizing traits like humility and teamwork. McCafferty also highlights the shift in coaching methodologies that promotes creativity and decision-making in youth players. Additionally, he sheds light on the rise of American soccer and the importance of adaptability and player autonomy in today’s evolving football landscape.

Gary is joined by one of the leaders in worldwide player development over the past 10-15 years. Romeo Jozak was a pioneer as Technical Director for Croatia and now works as Technical Director for Saudi Arabia. He also holds a UEFA PRO License and is author the phenomenal book,“CFF Development Curriculum.” In this interview, Romeo outlines the challenges for coaches and youth environments in the United States, as well suggesting potential solutions to progress the development of both coaches and players. Looking for new coach support options: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/product-page/msc-1-to-1-mentoring-package

Gary is joined by UEFA Pro Licensed Coach, Mick McDermott, to discuss his experience alongside Carlos Queiroz and Iran at the 2018 World Cup, managing Glentoran, and working in Saudi Arabia. Mick provides ideas and methods for coaches on navigating the hiring process and managing ownership, as well as elite level players.

Last week we took our first MSC road trip to visit Richie Ryan at FC Cincinnati Academy. Richie has a fascinating football journey, coming through Sunderland's academy system and then making his first team debut in the big derby game with bitter rivals, Newcastle United. After stops in Belgium, League of Ireland and the US, Richie recently moved onto the coaching side of the game working at FC Tulsa (USL) and now at FC Cincinnati. In the interview, we speak to Richie about the environment at FC Cincinnati, the support that players need in the modern game, plus his unique experience playing under Alessandro Nesta!