Insight and analysis

In possession and on the move: how running off the ball is the engine behind great attacks

2026-04-08T15:33:11Z

Football isn’t just a game that only demands technical excellence. The physical demands on elite football are higher than ever. We might think of running in football as something for when we don’t have the ball, but what about the running...(read more)

Outside the box: WSL trends in goals from distance

2026-04-01T10:58:47Z

We’ve looked at Premier League trends in goalscoring from distance over recent seasons. But what’s happening in the WSL? In this blog, Game Insights Analyst James Cook investigates past and current data on goalscoring from outside the box...(read more)

What can futsal teach us about goalscoring?

2026-03-16T13:56:30Z

Often positioned as a developmental tool, futsal is sometimes reduced to a small-sided indoor football game. But when we examine goalscoring trends at the elite level, we start to see a more powerful story emerge. Game Insights Analyst Jess Saunders ...(read more)

Game phases and moments: mastering the middle 3rd transition

2026-03-04T09:28:12Z

The moment where possession changes from one team to the other is called a “transition”. Finding structure within these chaotic moments can increase the chances of scoring a goal. For example, quickly exposing the opponent’s defence...(read more)

Tactics and Strategies: How might you implement a high press?

2026-02-02T16:16:44Z

The high press remains one of the most talked about out-of-possession strategies in the modern game. Designed to regain possession close to the opposition goal, a high press can disrupt an opposition’s build-up and even create goal-scoring oppo...(read more)

Outside the box: The trends in scoring from distance

2026-01-28T09:33:25Z

In a league built on speed, precision, and tactical evolution, the art of scoring from distance has become more than just a highlight‑reel moment - it’s a window into how the Premier League is changing. In this blog, Game Insights Analyst James...(read more)

Out of possession core skills: pressing and challenging

2026-01-16T14:52:01Z

Pressing, challenging, intercepting, covering, and marking. Your players need to use all the out of possession core skills. In this blog, Game Insights Analyst James Cook examines pressing and challenging. Delving into WSL and Premier League data, vi...(read more)

Brazil's historic win to Futsal World Cup glory

2025-12-15T11:15:00Z

The first-ever FIFA Women's Futsal World Cup provided a new global stage for elite women's performance. Brazil, a nation deeply rooted in futsal's rhythm, rose to the occasion. They finished the tournament undefeated, extending their worl...(read more)

Tactics and Strategies: Building the Attack

2025-12-05T16:00:00Z

When teams discuss attacking identity, much of the focus is on creativity and finishing. But the real artistry often begins much deeper. Build the attack is defined as a sustained possession in the defensive third of the pitch, and sets the tone for ...(read more)

Creative set plays: long throw ins and kick offs

2025-11-21T15:19:43Z

What is stopping us from being creative with our set plays? Can we think outside of the box and get inventive further back on the pitch? Game Insights analyst Luke Saunders and Senior Pro Game Coach Developer Steve Greaves examine a few set play rout...(read more)

In possession core skills: passing and receiving

2025-11-11T17:33:00Z

Passing, receiving, moving with the ball, turning, and finishing. Your players need to use all of the core skills. Game Insights analyst James Cook delves into passing and receiving, two of the most common. In this blog, we examine the six capabiliti...(read more)

Growing through the game: how formats fuel player development

2025-11-03T16:12:06Z

Development football is ready to undergo game format changes for matchdays next season. But what about training? How can practice design maximise our players’ development? Game Insights analyst James Cook explores how game formats can enhance ...(read more)

The power of 3v3: small sided games, big gains

2025-09-25T10:16:00Z

Since the changes to youth football in 2012, the benefits for young players have been profound. Now, it’s time to shape the experience for the next generation. In this blog, Game Insights analyst James Cook provides an overview of the upcoming ...(read more)

Individual Tactics of Centre Forwards at Euro 2025

2025-09-12T08:44:00Z

Individual Tactics of Centre Forwards at Euro 2025 In a spectacular summer in Switzerland, decisive moments often came down to a player’s ability to perform in individual battles, particularly when scoring goals. Game Insights Analyst Jess Saun...(read more)

The mastery of position-based core skills

2025-08-28T09:18:32Z

Core skills are crucial for footballers to learn when mastering their art. Developing the in- and out-of-possession core skills, from strength to super strength, can be the difference between winning and losing games. Crystal Palace once again enjoye...(read more)