Coaching Skill is built on a simple but powerful idea: The fastest path to a skilled, confident footballer runs through small-sided games: 1v1–2v2. These micro formats put every youth player in constant contact with the ball so they are continually making decisions, continually learning, and continually developing.

The book’s 32 illustrated activities offer clear principles, practice adaptations, and coaching strategies that prioritise player autonomy, intelligent play, and individual growth. And the best part is, these small-sided games need only a small playing area, so they can be practised just as well in the backyard as on the football pitch.

For coaches, this book offers a complete development system that can be adapted to any age and playing ability. Using small-sided games, coaches will set their players up for success by helping them to develop skills to outplay opponents, navigate overloads and underloads, play with teammates, and more.

Whether running a grassroots session or coaching more elite youth talent, this book gives all coaches the tools to create sessions that challenge, engage, and transform.