Focus: Passing Drill
Number of Players: +4
Age: +U8
Level: Easy
Setup:
- Arrange 4 cones in a line, spacing them 5-10 meters apart. (Optionally, substitute the 2 middle cones with man-makers, if available.)
- Assign one player to each cone, totaling 4 players participating in the drill.
- Adjust distances between cones based on the age and skill level of the players.
Why Use This Drill?
The Barcelona Line Passing Drill trains various facets of the game in a straightforward and easy drill. It emphasizes player movement and the ability to adapt runs based on teammates’ actions. This focus on movement enhances players’ spatial awareness and tactical understanding, making it particularly beneficial for possession-based teams like FC Barcelona. Additionally, the drill develops players’ first touch and passing skills.
How It Works
Start the drill by having one player start with the ball at the outer cones. The two central players should consistently shift away from their positions to create passing options on either side of the cone. The first central player decides which side to move towards, and the other player adjusts their movement accordingly in the opposite direction. Rotate players every 2-5 minutes to ensure everyone gets involved evenly.
1. Variation
Short Pass Variation: The starting player passes to the closest central player, who has moved out to either side and then passes the ball to the other central player. Finally, the ball is passed to the last player, and the drill restarts from the opposite side.
2 Variation
Long Pass Variation: The initial player sends a long ball to the farthest central player, who lays it off to the opposite central player. The ball eventually reaches the outer player, and the drill resets from the other side.
3. Variation
One-Two Passing Variation: The starting player performs a one-two passing combination with the nearest central player, and then passes to the opposite central player. The ball is then played back to the first central player before being passed to the last player at the outer cone.
Other Key Points:
- Emphasize high-tempo movements away from the cones to simulate in-game scenarios effectively.
- Encourage players to stay on their toes, maintaining a state of readiness to receive the ball.
- The drill should be seen as inspiration. So feel free to adapt the drill to suit your team’s specific needs or focus areas.
