4 v 4 small sided soccer in numbers

Most coaches do not recognize the importance of small sided soccer games , and are in a rush to get players playing 8 v 8 , 11 v 11 games. This is frustrating for developmentally focused coaches such as myself as players get less time on the ball , less touches and little chance to develop technical skills.

A study conducted by EPL team Manchester United over a 3 month period showed just why 4 v 4 is the perfect enviroment for developing young players so from here on in I will let the numbers do the talking.

8 v 8 games v 4 v 4 games

The results showed that 4 v 4 games had ;

-135% or 585 more passes per game compared with a 8 v 8 game

- 260% or 481 more shots

- 500% more goals scored

- 225% or 525 more 1 v 1 situations

- 280% or 436 more tricks , skills and dribbling moves