How coaches can plan for football training

What should be in the training plan?

There are three levels of planning you can do:

• coaching practices
• coaching sessions
• linked sessions.

It’s best to start with the big picture and plan linked sessions. These are a series of sessions on the same theme over several weeks.

First, consider the themes you want to work on, like building from the back or playing in possession.

Next, design practices that help with these themes. Ask yourself these questions:

• What is the environment like? Consider factors like space, number of players, and available equipment.
• How can I include challenges that meet the specific needs of my players and team?
• How can I link practices to matchday?
• How can I make training enjoyable for both players and myself?
• If I work with other coaches or staff, how can I make the most of them?
• Is there any game insight data that could help me plan?
• How can I help players develop across The FA Four Corner model?

There’s no need to start from scratch every time. For linked sessions, you could keep the main practices the same but add development and progressions each week. A bonus is that players have another chance to try if things don’t work out one week.

But, whatever you do, be prepared to change tack. You might need to go to plan B when the unexpected happens. From bad weather to late players, things are rarely predictable in football coaching.

What session structures are there for coaches to use?

Here are some ideas to structure your sessions.

Carousel

This is where you set up different activities and move players between them. It takes a little effort to organise but allows you to work on everything with each player.

Whole-part-whole

This starts with a game, and then focuses on a specific technique or skill, before finishing with another game. It’s a great way to get players to apply what they’ve learned before they have a chance to forget.

Up the steps

This is when you increase the difficulty throughout the session. Don’t be afraid to start higher for some players to give them the challenge they need.

For more information on this, check out our session structures explainer article.

How to plan a training session in line with intended outcomes

Instead of starting with the practice, think about the outcome first. Then design your practice with that in mind.

Here are some tips to plan an outcome-focused training session:

• Think about the development needs of your players. What do individuals need to achieve the outcome? What about units and the team as a whole? How can your practice design help with this?
• Prepare to explain to players why they’re doing each activity so they understand how it benefits them and the team.
• Prioritise repetition. Give players plenty of chances to develop by practising the same challenges across multiple sessions.
• Be prepared for unintended outcomes. Sometimes, you might need to change direction and focus on new priorities as they come up.

How to plan training when you don’t have much time

Training is tomorrow, but you haven't had time to plan anything for it? We’ve all been there.

Don’t panic. Just put on a session that looks like the game. A small-sided match is a great way to go. Then within that, get players to work on a theme like receiving, turning, or passing.

Have limited time to set up? Get players started on an arrival activity that links to your theme. Then you can get ready while they're working towards the session outcome. This beats having players waiting around while you put out cones.

What to consider when working with different age groups

For the youngest players aged five to ten, it’s important to keep training fun. Focus on making them excited to return each week. Small learning moments are enough. Consider working on core skills like staying on the ball, mastering the ball and connecting with the ball.

As players get older, talk to them about what's happening in their lives outside of training. They might have exams or other stuff going on. Consider this along with their motivations for playing football. Aim to create a safe space where making mistakes is okay.

In senior football, you might need to challenge players by taking them out of their comfort zones. For example, you might switch someone’s position to give them a taste of what that feels like. Or focus on skills they don’t love but are essential for success. Consider how to integrate and work on formations and tactics in training.

But no matter what age group you coach, think about using small-sided games. They're not just for young players. Smaller formats give players more repetition of the skill you’re working on. Which means they’ll get greater returns – and a better experience. So, they’re great to use.

Things to remember to help you with planning for training

Further learning

If you’re interested in this topic, check out these resources to learn more:

• How to design football practices
• Top tips for training
• How to structure a training session
• How to link practice to matchday
• How to set up and run a training session.

You can also take the key information from this article away with you by downloading this PDF.