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4 pillars determine the quality of a footballer
“To truly understand what makes a footballer great, we need to break down their abilities into four essential pillars. These pillars are the foundation on which every player’s quality is built: Technique, Physical Condition, Tactical Knowledge, and Mindset.
Let’s start with Technique. This is all about the player’s skill with the ball—how well they can control it, pass it, dribble through defenders, and take those crucial shots. Think of technique as the artistry of football. It’s what makes the game beautiful to watch and gives players the ability to influence the game at any moment. Without strong technical skills, even the best tactical understanding won’t get a player far.
Next, we have Physical Condition. Football is a demanding sport, requiring speed, endurance, and strength. Imagine a player with incredible skills but lacking the stamina to keep up with the pace of the game—those skills become useless in the final minutes. Physical fitness isn’t just about being able to run for 90 minutes; it’s also about having the strength to hold off opponents, the agility to change direction quickly, and the speed to outpace defenders. In today’s game, physical condition is non-negotiable.
The third pillar is Tactical Knowledge. This is where the brain comes into play. It’s not enough to be fast and skillful; players need to be smart. Tactical knowledge means understanding the game on a deeper level—knowing where to be on the pitch, how to move without the ball, and anticipating the opponents’ next move. Great tactical awareness allows a player to make decisions that can change the course of a game, positioning themselves in the right place at the right time.
Finally, there’s Mindset. Now, this is often the most overlooked, but it’s just as crucial as the other pillars. Mindset refers to a player’s mental strength—how they handle pressure, stay focused, and remain motivated. Football can be incredibly intense, both physically and mentally. Players face challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. The best players are those who can maintain their composure, push through adversity, and keep their eyes on the goal, literally and figuratively.
And here’s an important point: just like technique and physical fitness, mindset is something that can be trained. Through mental conditioning, visualization, and resilience-building exercises, players can strengthen their mindset, making them not just better footballers, but also more resilient individuals. Developing a strong mindset is about building the ability to stay calm under pressure, recover quickly from mistakes, and continuously strive for improvement.
When you look at the greatest players in the world, you’ll see that they excel in all four of these areas. They have the technique, they have the physical condition, they understand the game tactically, and they have an unbreakable mindset. And that’s what it takes to reach the top in football.”
How the “primal brain” of the human being works
“To understand the mindset of a successful football player, it’s important to first look at how our brains have evolved and how this evolution impacts our performance on the pitch.
Let’s start with the primal brain. Our brains have been wired over millions of years to focus on survival and reproduction. This wiring served our ancestors well when they needed to navigate a world full of dangers. The primal brain is constantly on alert, focusing on negative things—like which fruits might be poisonous, which water sources could make you sick, or which animals might be life-threatening. It’s always asking: ‘Where is the danger? Who or what is the enemy?’ This survival mechanism is deeply ingrained in us.
But what happens when we perceive a threat? The brain triggers what’s known as the ‘fight or flight’ response. When faced with danger, our bodies release adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare us to either confront the threat or run away from it. These hormones narrow our focus to the immediate problem, which can be incredibly useful if you’re facing a wild animal in the forest. However, on a football pitch, this can be a double-edged sword.
Now, let’s contrast this with the ideal brain of a football player. While the primal brain might instinctively react to stress or pressure by narrowing focus and triggering fight or flight, a football player needs to do the opposite. The best players learn to keep their instinctive reactions under control. They manage their stress, anxiety, aggression, and frustration in a way that keeps them focused on what really matters—the game.
Instead of letting adrenaline and cortisol take over, they train themselves to focus on the right things. This means staying calm under pressure, making smart decisions even in the heat of the moment, and not getting distracted by negative thoughts or emotions. It’s not about ignoring instincts but mastering them.
In summary, while our primal brain might be wired for survival, a successful football player reprograms their mind to thrive under the unique pressures of the sport. By training their mindset, they can control their instincts and focus their energy where it truly counts—on playing their best game.”
The right focus – During the game: a continuous flow of thoughts and emotions
This slide visually shows 2 completely different flows of thought. PLAYER 1 focuses on the wrong things. PLAYER 2 has the right focus.
PLAYER 1 – Distracted by things beyond his control
“Let’s talk about Player 1—someone we’ve probably all seen on the pitch, and maybe even recognized in ourselves at times. Player 1 is someone who gets distracted by things that are beyond their control.
So what do I mean by that? Well, in the heat of a match, there are countless external factors that can throw a player off their game. It might start with something like a referee’s decision that they believe is wrong. Instead of moving on and refocusing, Player 1 gets caught up in that moment. They carry that frustration with them, and it starts to impact their performance.
But it doesn’t stop there. Maybe it starts raining, and suddenly, Player 1 is more focused on how uncomfortable they feel than on the game itself. Or they make a mistake, and instead of shaking it off, they dwell on it, letting it sap their confidence. Then there’s the dirty foul from an opposing player—Player 1 lets their anger take over, affecting their concentration and composure.
And it goes beyond just the direct gameplay. A teammate makes a mistake, and Player 1 gets frustrated, losing trust in their team. Or they hear the supporters shouting things from the stands—good or bad—and let it distract them. Maybe the field is in poor condition, and all they can think about is how hard it is to play under those circumstances. Even the score on the scoreboard or the behavior of the opposing coach can take them out of the moment.
The key point here is that Player 1 is allowing external factors—things completely out of their control—to dictate their mindset and performance. And the result? They’re not fully present in the game. They’re distracted, frustrated, and ultimately, they’re not playing to their full potential.
The lesson we need to learn is that these distractions are always going to be there. The rain will fall, referees will make decisions you don’t agree with, and opponents will do everything they can to get under your skin. But the great players—the ones who really make a difference—are the ones who learn to block out these distractions. They focus only on what they can control: their effort, their attitude, and their next move on the pitch.”
PLAYER 2 – focuses on himself and his own tasks
“Now, let’s turn our attention to Player 2—a player who embodies the mindset we all should strive for on the pitch.
Player 2 has a different approach. Instead of getting distracted by things outside of his control, he focuses entirely on himself and the tasks at hand. He understands that the only thing he can truly control during a match is his own performance, so that’s where he puts all of his energy and attention.
So what does this look like in practice? For Player 2, it’s all about staying locked in on the game. He’s constantly finding space, looking for those pockets where he can make himself available to receive the ball. He’s always making runs, timing them perfectly to get behind the defense or support a teammate.
But it doesn’t stop there. Player 2 is also scanning the field, keeping his head up, and being aware of what’s happening around him. This allows him to set off passing lines, to make sure he’s always an option for a pass and to keep the play moving forward. When the opportunity arises, he’s ready to intercept the ball, reading the game and positioning himself perfectly to break up the opponent’s attack.
Then there’s the quick decision-making. When Player 2 gets the ball, he’s already thinking two steps ahead, ready to switch play or make a decisive pass. He’s playing with the optimal intensity—not too rushed, but not too relaxed—just the right balance to keep up with the pace of the game.
And perhaps most importantly, Player 2 is also directing his fellow players, communicating with them, and making sure everyone is in the right position. He’s a leader on the field, but not because he’s focused on what others are doing wrong. Instead, he’s focused on helping everyone perform at their best.
The key takeaway here is that Player 2 deliberately ignores everything he has no control over. He doesn’t let a bad referee decision, the weather, or the crowd’s noise distract him. His focus is sharp, and his mindset is all about doing his job to the best of his ability. And by focusing on what he can control—his actions, his decisions, and his effort—Player 2 is consistently able to make a positive impact on the game.
This is the mindset we should all aim to develop. By focusing on ourselves, on our tasks, and on what we can control, we can block out the distractions and play the game at our highest level.”
Noticeable differences between PLAYER 1 & PLAYER 2
“Let’s delve deeper into the differences in focus between Player 1 and Player 2. These differences might seem subtle, but they have a profound impact on performance—and they’re noticeable in several key areas.
First, there’s the speed of execution and anticipation. Player 2, who remains focused on what he can control, is quicker to act. His mind is clear, not bogged down by distractions, which means he’s able to make faster decisions on the field. He’s anticipating the play, staying one step ahead of his opponents. Player 1, on the other hand, might hesitate or react a split second too late because his mind is cluttered with things he can’t control—like the weather or the referee’s decisions. That difference in focus can be the difference between making a crucial interception or missing an opportunity.
Next, let’s talk about the consistency of decisions and execution. Player 2, with his clear focus, delivers more consistent quality in both his decision-making and execution. Whether it’s a pass, a shot, or a defensive action, Player 2 is more reliable because his mind is fully engaged with the game. Player 1, however, experiences ups and downs in his performance. His inconsistency stems from his divided attention—one moment he’s in the game, the next he’s mentally replaying a mistake or dwelling on an unfair call.
Then, there’s the sense of being ‘in the game.’ This is something that’s almost intangible, but you can feel it when you’re truly in the zone. Player 2 is fully present. He’s immersed in the flow of the game, making the right decisions instinctively and effortlessly. Player 1, however, struggles to stay ‘in the game.’ His mind drifts, and he finds it hard to maintain that same level of engagement throughout the match.
The core message here is this: Actively maintaining focus on manageable matters—those things you can control—allows you to attain and keep your best level. It’s about tuning out the noise and distractions and zeroing in on your tasks, your responsibilities, and your performance.
In summary, the difference in focus between Player 1 and Player 2 doesn’t just affect their mindset; it translates directly into how they perform on the pitch. The player who controls his focus controls his game. By choosing to focus only on what’s within his control, Player 2 achieves greater speed, consistency, and engagement—key factors that elevate his level of play.”
Tips for focus – Here, now & my tasks in the match
Let’s focus on the power of concentration and the specific tasks that can help players maintain their focus during the match. It’s essential to keep these tasks actively formulated and limited in number – ideally, no more than five. This ensures clarity and manageability, allowing players to direct their attention effectively.
For example, instead of instructing players with negatives, which the brain tends to overlook, we use positive affirmations. Telling a player, “Don’t lose focus,” is less effective than saying, “Stay focused on your role.” The brain skips the word “not,” so we craft our messages to guide players towards the desired outcome.
Let’s consider the phrase, “Don’t think of a pink elephant.” Despite the instruction, the image is already in your mind. This illustrates why we must frame our focus tips positively. We could say, “Focus on the ball’s movement,” or “Keep your positioning in mind.” These directives are clear, actionable, and direct the brain towards the intended focus.
By applying these tips, players can anchor their attention to the present moment – the here and now – and their specific tasks in the match. This approach minimizes distractions and empowers players to contribute their best to the team’s performance.
Tips for focus – (sh)IT HAPPENS
We confront an inevitable aspect of football – mistakes happen. The phrase “(sh)IT HAPPENS” serves as a stark reminder that errors are part of the game, and our response to them is what truly matters.
In the heat of the match, it’s crucial for players to quickly forget mistakes and refocus on the game. Dwelling on errors can cloud judgment and affect performance. Instead, we encourage players to let go of mishaps as they occur and shift their attention back to the task at hand. The time for learning from these mistakes is during training, not while the game is in play.
Reaching your best level is always a success, regardless of the outcome. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication put into preparation. And as we often say, “That’s football.” It’s a game where the best team doesn’t always win, but playing with the right focus significantly enhances our chances of victory.
This slide emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, learning from mistakes in the right context, and always striving for excellence. By adopting these principles, players can navigate the challenges of the game with resilience and determination.
Why positive thinking?
As we explore the concept of positive thinking, let’s consider its profound impact on performance and well-being. Positive thinking is not just an abstract idea; it’s a practical tool that goes hand in hand with self-confidence, empowering us to quickly focus on solutions rather than getting bogged down by problems.
Imagine an upward spiral where positive thinking fuels motivation, leading to harder work and continuous improvement. This is the virtuous cycle we aim to instill in our players. With a positive mindset, concentration improves, allowing for better decision-making and enhanced performance on the field.
Resilience is another key benefit of positive thinking. It arms us against setbacks, encouraging us to keep going even when faced with challenges. This resilience is crucial in football, where the ability to bounce back can make the difference between a good player and a great one.
Moreover, positive thinking unlocks creativity and energy, leading to better decisions, even under pressure. It’s the difference between a player who crumbles and one who thrives when the stakes are high.
By fostering a culture of positive thinking, we’re not just building better athletes; we’re nurturing individuals who are equipped to handle the pressures of the game and life with grace and determination.
Tips for positive thinking
Let’s focus on the practical strategies that can foster this mindset. The first tip is self-talk. It’s about self-management through positive dialogue with oneself, rather than succumbing to negative thoughts. We encourage players to monitor their automatic negative thoughts, to ‘park’ them and consciously turn them around, especially before and after the match.
The next step is to actively fight negativity. This means resisting the urge to complain, blame mistakes on others, or make excuses. Remember, “Losers have excuses, winners have a plan.” It’s about adopting a growth or excellence mindset, where errors are not setbacks but opportunities for continuous improvement. We praise the positive with “Catch ’em while being good,” reinforcing the good behaviors and achievements.
Lastly, we emphasize the importance of strong body language. It’s not just about appearances; it’s about the influence our posture and expressions have on our sensations and biochemical processes, including hormone levels. By adopting a powerful stance, we can actually feel more confident and in control.
Together, these tips for positive thinking can lead to a more motivated, resilient, and successful team. It’s about focusing on growth, excellence, and the positive aspects that make us stronger both on and off the field.
The limbic system
The limbic system is a complex set of structures located on both sides of the thalamus, right under the cerebrum. It is not only responsible for our emotional life but also plays a significant role in the formation of memories.
Prefrontal Cortex: This part of the brain is involved in planning complex cognitive behavior, personality expression, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. The basic activity of this brain region is considered to be the orchestration of thoughts and actions in accordance with internal goals.
Thalamus: The primary function of the thalamus is to relay motor and sensory signals to the cerebral cortex. It also plays an important role in regulating consciousness, sleep, and alertness.
Amygdala: This almond-shaped set of neurons located deep in the brain’s medial temporal lobe is involved in memory, emotion, and survival instincts. It is part of the limbic system and plays a key role in the processing of emotions such as fear, anger, and pleasure. The amygdala is also responsible for determining what memories are stored and where they are stored in the brain.
Hippocampus: This is a major component of the brain and plays critical roles in the consolidation of information from short-term memory to long-term memory, and in spatial memory that enables navigation.
When it comes to emotional stimuli leading to an emotional response, the route it takes can be either cortical or subcortical. The cortical route involves a more deliberate and analytical processing of the stimulus, which takes longer but allows for a more thoughtful response. On the other hand, the subcortical route is quicker and involves a more automatic and instinctive reaction to stimuli. This route is typically associated with the fight-or-flight response triggered by the amygdala. The hippocampus, while not directly involved in the emotional response, plays a role in forming the context of the memory of the event that triggered the emotion.
Understanding these pathways is crucial as it helps in managing emotions and reactions, especially in high-pressure situations like sports or critical decision-making scenarios. It’s important to note that while we can’t control the emotional stimulus, we can work on our response by being aware of these processes and practicing emotional regulation techniques.
Emotions: aggression
As we turn our attention to the role of emotions in football, particularly aggression, we focus on the Prefrontal Cortex. This part of the brain acts as a filter for our responses to emotional stimuli. It allows footballers to choose how to react to a situation, rather than reacting instinctively. This cognitive control is crucial in high-stakes moments on the pitch.
Monitoring optimal intensity is key to harnessing aggression in a productive way. It’s about finding the right balance of intensity that can be temporarily switched on or off depending on the game’s demands. For instance, applying immediate high pressure on the opponent’s half after losing the ball in the first 10 seconds is an example of effectively utilizing aggression.
The concept of Using Aggression (Dark Practice) can be exemplified by the legendary basketball player Michael Jordan. His ability to channel aggression into a focused determination to win, pushing himself and his teammates to excel, is a testament to the power of controlled aggression.
In football, as in any sport, the right amount of aggression can be a game-changer. It’s about using that emotional energy to fuel performance without letting it spill over into negative behavior. The prefrontal cortex’s role in managing our emotional responses is a critical aspect of this, ensuring that aggression is a tool for success, not a hindrance.
Emotions: stress/anxiety
When we discuss emotions in the context of football, stress and anxiety are often at the forefront. The Prefrontal Cortex plays a pivotal role here, filtering our responses to emotional stimuli. It empowers footballers to choose their reactions to various situations, rather than succumbing to instinctive reactions.
The ability to put things into perspective is crucial. The saying “Stress is something you inflict on yourself” highlights the importance of mindset. There’s also the concept of positive stress, which can be a motivator rather than a hindrance. It’s about channeling the energy that comes with stress into a positive force on the field.
Perfectionism and the fear of making mistakes can lead to stress and anxiety. However, the idea that “You can’t win with ‘playing it safe’” encourages players to take calculated risks. Kevin De Bruyne, when asked for a tip for young players, advised, “Make more mistakes!” This speaks to the value of learning from errors and growing as a player.
Conclusion
As we conclude this presentation on the mental aspects of football, let’s reflect on the key message: a footballer’s brain is a powerful tool that requires both fire in the heart and a cool head.
The journey to acquiring mental skills is not an overnight transformation. It’s a gradual learning process, where players develop the ability to manage their emotions, harness their passion, and maintain clarity of thought even in the most intense moments of the game.
A footballer with fire in their heart plays with passion, determination, and an unquenchable desire to succeed. Yet, it is the cool head that allows them to channel this fire constructively, making strategic decisions, staying focused under pressure, and ultimately, playing smarter.
In essence, the mental skills that a footballer acquires are as critical as their physical abilities. It’s the balance between emotional intensity and cognitive control that can make the difference between a good player and a great one.
As we move forward, let’s encourage our players to embrace this balance, to cultivate the fire that drives them, and to nurture the cool-headedness that guides them. Together, these qualities will not only enhance their performance on the field but also enrich their growth as individuals off the field.