1980s-1990s
Balance and defensive organization influenced the common use of the 1-4-4-2 formation; assessment of where goals were scored steered coaches to use direct play; compact defensive blocks( e. g., Mourinho’ s“ park the bus”); systematic pressing and counterattacking; opportunities in terms of gender and geographic diversity grew exponentially at all levels; coaching education widened its scope at all levels.
2000s-2020s
Various“ innovations” took place— for example, the contribution from Guardiola’ s Barcelona FC( Spain) era that made some aspects of the game very popular; possession-based(“ tiki-taka,” positional play, short passing, overloads, high pressing); expansion of ideas from beyond the traditional looks at England, Germany, Netherlands, Brazil led to curiosity about France, Spain, Argentina and beyond Europe and South America into Asian( e. g., Japan) and African nations as examples; no longer were fitness and exercises separate, but coaches integrated physical, technical, tactical and psychological aspects together in training to fit their specific ideas about match play; periodization, data analytics, video analysis, and science-backed evidence in training and matches through the year provided valuable information about load management and strategy along with emphases of various roles( e. g., technical director, high performance specialists, etc.) in the organization.
TODAY
Access to diversity of ideas and information technology( think streaming, social media and other platforms) globally offers varied menus of thoughts on style of play( possession, pressing, attacking, defending), tactics, training methodology; holistic development involves implementation of performance scientists, psychologists, data analysists, varied staff assistants such as set-piece specialists and more; player-centered focus emphasizes meeting individual needs within team game model, decision-making, understanding, age-appropriate exercises, varied learning styles, wellness over repetitive drills emphasize the coach as instructor rather than dictator; manager of players’ support systems, feelings, emotions, communication in giving and receiving information; language considerations, optimal performance, motivation, competing goals all on top of traditional“ coaching philosophy.”
The Mourinho Method
Tiki Taka
When thinking of your own coaching philosophy, there are many points to consider. On the following page, there are a few questions to brainstorm responses based on approximately 40 years of coaching experience. I highly recommend writing them down or otherwise keeping a record of your responses.
In addition, as I like to say,“ find your five.” These are the people you can review your thoughts with and adjust your coaching philosophy components as needed. The five may include a staff member, friend, mentor, or senior member in your respective organization who may or may not have decision-making power; trusted experienced coach who will challenge you, not just agree with you; or others in your sphere of influence. Enjoy the process and good luck in your season!
14 | Soccer Journal