Tag: Developing Young Players

The standout U-23 players in the Premier League so far in 2026-27

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Central Midfield, Centre Backs, Data Analysis, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League

The Premier League is known for being the most demanding, competitive league in the world. But that has never stopped the world's best young players from gaining substantial minutes on the field. It's not just other European leagues where young players can learn their trade before making a big move to one of Europe's elite. They can start right at the very top too, and even make their mark at some of the biggest clubs in the world. With so many standout young players to start the season, I wanted to analyze three of the best. Here are the standout U23 players to start the 2026-27 season.

The best young players outside of Europe’s top five leagues in 2021-22

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Most Recent, Recruitment & Scouting, World Football

We take a look at the six best (or the six most submitted) young players outside of Europe's top five leagues, who have been catching the eye in 2021-22. But not only that! We also take a deep dive into the discussion vaults, describing where each of our youngsters could end up next season, both in stylistic fit and reported rumours.

Tactical Thinker: Young players outside of Europe’s top five leagues catching the eye

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Most Recent, Recruitment & Scouting, World Football

Who is a young player outside of Europe's top five leagues that has caught your attention this season? If you'd like to expand on your answer, feel free to share where you could see them fitting in if a move were to be made elsewhere.

Playing Out From The Back – The Basics

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coaching, World Football

Playing out from the back is one of the most important elements of the modern game. Not only is it better for development than kicking it long, it is also easier and allows a team fewer risks at losing the ball. As a result, coaches of any age group should be looking to teach players young and old the necessary steps of playing out from the back. In order to help guide these coaches, we take a look at some of the most basic elements of playing out from the back, with example diagrams from a 7v7 team playing 2-3-1.