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Development Model

Introduction

Whether in the UK or around the globe Manchester United Soccer Schools bring a unique spirit and environment to every city, town or club we visit.

Our staff share a passion for the game that is transferred through to all the participants.

Players will be allowed to express themselves, play without fear of making mistakes, be encouraged to make their own decisions in sessions and discover the enjoyment of football.

We look to learn from all people we meet allowing our programs to constantly evolve around the core beliefs that Manchester United is built on.

We understand that all children learn in different ways and our coaches are trained in delivering our syllabus to all types of personalities and abilities so that each player can achieve their highest level of performance.

Our development model

Technical

By improving your technical ability, you will be able to play with more confidence and become more effective.

Through the delivery of specific techniques performed regularly by the Manchester United first team, players will learn to dominate 1v1 situations by being able to produce tricks and turns and become more confident with the ball at their feet.

Players will also be taught the fundamental techniques such as dribbling, passing, receiving, finishing, defending, heading and goalkeeping.

To enhance the delivery of our technical sessions, each player on our football courses and football camps will use the latest innovative coaching equipment.

Technical

Tactical

Enjoy your time on the ball; this will allow you to make good decisions. Stay active off the ball; this will make you an asset to your team.

We will develop the player’s understanding of how to dominate their opponent and also how to combine as a team.

For younger players our 4v4 games create lots of opportunities to practice their tricks and turns under match conditions without fear of making mistakes.

Older players will be able learn how to use their tricks, turns and passing range in the three areas of the field. Aiming to change the direction and pace of play, using width and depth to make play unpredictable and keep the opposition guessing!

All activity is delivered in relation to the development age of the players.

Tactical

Physical

Take responsibility for looking after your body, what you consume and how you train.

Players will learn specifically how to train their bodies for the demands of the game. Focusing on the fundamental movements of agility, balance, strength, speed and stamina.

As players get older they will learn how their game position can dictate their physical training.

Players will also learn how fuelling and preparing their bodies off the field will give them the best chance on it!

Physical

Mental

Developing a winning mentality requires strong character and a positive attitude. The whole environment at a Manchester United Soccer School is positive.

Players of all ages have to deal with winning and losing, playing well and making mistakes. We show our players techniques on how to build confidence throughout the different challenges presented in the game. The MUSS dressing room zone, self talk and goal setting are examples of how we help the players remain focussed.

Social

Manchester United Soccer Schools are a great opportunity for children to develop their social skills.

On all courses players will be encouraged to conduct themselves as a MUSS player and reach the high standards set by young professional footballers.

Social

Code of Conduct

Attitude

Always motivate yourself to give your best.

Behaviour

Lead by example, be the best person you can.

Communication

Listen to you parents, teachers and coaches. Always keep an open mind and ask questions.

Discipline

Be prepared and be punctual. Respect the people, equipment and place where you play.

Enthusiasm

Give your best at all times and encourage others.

Fair Play

Learn to win and lose with the same degree of dignity.

Other

Age Guidelines

We have developed programs to cater for all ages to challenge and inspire any player who attends a Manchester United Soccer Schools course.

Junior Players — 6-11 year olds

Junior Players

This focuses on teaching the fundamental techniques of the game and showing players how to master these into skills. Tailor-made for junior players with a fun and friendly atmosphere, football mad kids can live and breathe the game. Players will learn how to practice like their United heroes and can truly feel they are living the dream as a young United player.

Senior Players — 12-16 year olds

Senior Players

Intensive training designed to take the players to that next level by using their technique but also developing their game understanding of team shape, defensive responsibilities and attacking principles using the Manchester United philosophy. Players will also be encouraged to start developing a mature approach to their physical and mental preparation for training and matches.

Youth Players — 17-18 year olds

Advanced technical and tactical sessions are delivered to all abilities to show how Manchester United prepare their youth players for the next step in their careers.

Youth players will be taken through position-specific physical and technical training by analysing our first team players to help understand the finer details of top level preparation.

Players will also be given a valuable insight into the opportunities that arise by staying in the game. Our staff will be on hand to help the players create a vision of how they can progress in the game and the opportunities in football such as coaching, sports science and nutrition. Players also discover how the skills learnt from the game can help them mature and take responsibility for their own development.

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