“It’s Not About You” - The Biggest Leadership Mistake in Modern Football with Paul McVeigh

In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast, Gary is joined by Paul McVeigh — former Premier League player, performance psychologist, CEO, keynote speaker, and author of the new book It’s Not About You. Paul brings a rare perspective, having lived inside elite football dressing rooms and now working at the highest levels of leadership in the business world. Together, we explore where leadership succeeds, where it breaks down, and why modern teams often struggle despite having elite talent. We discuss the critical differences between football teams and business organizations, why elite performers don’t automatically create elite teams, and how leadership has shifted from command-and-control to relationship-driven approaches — sometimes at the cost of clarity and standards. This conversation dives into empathy versus boundaries, why communication is often the missing piece in leadership, how belief is built (or destroyed) inside teams, and why leadership should be viewed as a process rather than a personality trait. If you’re a coach, technical director, leader, or anyone responsible for developing people in high-pressure environments, this episode will challenge how you think about influence, accountability, and what it really means to lead.

This episode is proudly supported by Zone14 Zone14 helps coaches turn ideas into clarity — with session design tools, game models, and shared language that support real development on the grass. https://zone14coaching.com/ Use code:ModernSoccer5 for $5 OFF In this episode, Gary is joined by Patrice Gheisar for a deep, practical conversation on one of the most misunderstood debates in modern coaching: positionalism vs relationism. Rather than choosing sides, Patrice shares how the two can work together inside a clear game model — using real match examples, training principles, and lessons learned from building a sustained attacking identity over multiple seasons. We explore how positional structure provides reference points, while relational freedom allows players to solve problems in real time. Patrice breaks down wide overloads, central breaks, counter-pressing, rest defence, and attacking with numbers — all through the lens of what actually works on the grass. This conversation goes beyond theory and into coaching reality, touching on player trust, decision-making, patience vs verticality, and why supporting good ideas matters more than chasing short-term results. If you’re a coach, director, or educator trying to balance structure with freedom — this episode will challenge how you think about attacking football.

Check out Zone 14 Coaching below: https://zone14coaching.com/ Use code: ModernSoccer5 for $5 OFF The US Soccer age group rule change is here — and it’s creating real uncertainty across the youth soccer landscape. In this Modern Soccer Coach podcast episode, Gary Curneen is joined by STA Technical Director Tom Shields to explain exactly what’s changing (birth-year registration to a seasonal/school-year window), why it’s being introduced, and how coaches and clubs can manage the transition with clarity. We unpack the biggest issues families are asking about: “Will my child be playing down?”, what happens to late-birthday players, how “trapped” players can be affected during middle school to high school transitions, and how clubs can protect player development, team culture, and coach well-being during year one. Tom shares a simple leadership framework for communication and trust: keep people informed, inspired, interested, involved, and included — so you can lead the change instead of reacting to it. If you’re a director, coach, or parent navigating team placement, tryout season, and registration shifts, this episode will help you understand the implications and make better decisions rooted in process — not panic.

Register for MSC Tactical Flexibility webinar: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/product-page/upcoming-webinar-how-to-coach-tactical-flexibility-in-an-attacking-manner Sign-Up for MSC Insider: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions In the final Modern Soccer Coach podcast of 2025, we step back from tactics and trends and ask a bigger question: What will the game look like in 2026 and beyond? Rather than reviewing downloads or highlights, this episode focuses on three ideas from 2025 that point directly toward the future of soccer coaching and player development. Across the year on Modern Soccer Coach, conversations consistently returned to the same themes: clarity over complexity, individuality over rigid structure, and environments over outcomes. In this episode, we explore: • How modern game models may be limiting individual development • Why more content does not always create better coaches • The growing importance of methodology and clarity • How youth environments shape the future of the professional game This episode is for coaches who want to think beyond the next session and reflect on where the game is actually heading. Thank you for listening throughout 2025. We hope you stay with us in 2026. - Gary Curneen

Check out Zone 14 Coaching below: https://zone14coaching.com/ Use code:ModernSoccer5 for $5 OFF Is the art of defending dead? In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach podcast, Gary Curneen sits down with former Premier League and MLS center backs Danny Collins and Ike Opara to break down how the center back position has changed — and what might be getting lost along the way. The conversation explores the evolution from defender-first to build-up quarterback, the influence of possession-based football, and the tension between philosophy and making the best decision in the moment. Danny and Ike share firsthand experiences from elite environments, discussing duels, mentality, physicality, decision-making under pressure, and why clean sheets still matter. This episode dives into: • How the role of the center back has evolved over the last 10–15 years • The impact of building out from the back at youth and professional levels • Whether defensive craft and mentality are being deprioritized • Philosophy vs results in modern coaching • What still defines an elite defender today • Where defending might be heading next If you coach defenders, work in player development, or want a deeper understanding of how modern football is reshaping defensive roles, this is a must-listen conversation. Subscribe to Modern Soccer Coach for more long-form conversations, breakdowns, and insights from the game’s leading coaches and players. #soccer #football #soccertraining #soccercoaching #soccerdrills #defending #podcast #coaching #footy #garycurneen #dannycollins #ikeopara #podcastshow #soccerpodcast #youtubepodcast #youthsoccer #modernsoccercoach

Access full webinar here: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/pro... Check out Duktig Brand here: https://www.duktigbrand.com/ In this episode, Gary Curneen is joined by Luis Swisher, U18/U19 coach at St. Louis City SC (MLS), to break down one of the most undervalued attacking moments in soccer: throw-ins. Most teams get 25–45 throw-ins per match, yet very few coach them with the same detail as build-up play, goal kicks, or corners. Luis explains why throw-ins should be treated as controlled attacking restarts, not throwaways — and how teaching intentions, space, and decision-making can lead to more possession, progression, and goal-scoring opportunities. We discuss: Why there are more throw-ins than corners — and why that matters Coaching the thrower as the “quarterback” Intentions vs predictable set routines How to train attacking throw-ins without killing session flow Scaling throw-in detail from youth to professional level Access full webinar here: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/post/how-throw-ins-can-create-goals-free-webinar Check out Duktig Brand here: https://www.duktigbrand.com/ In this episode, Gary Curneen is joined by Luis Swisher, U18/U19 coach at St. Louis City SC (MLS), to break down one of the most undervalued attacking moments in soccer: throw-ins. Most teams get 25–45 throw-ins per match, yet very few coach them with the same detail as build-up play, goal kicks, or corners. Luis explains why throw-ins should be treated as controlled attacking restarts, not throwaways — and how teaching intentions, space, and decision-making can lead to more possession, progression, and goal-scoring opportunities. We discuss: Why there are more throw-ins than corners — and why that matters Coaching the thrower as the “quarterback” Intentions vs predictable set routines How to train attacking throw-ins without killing session flow Scaling throw-in detail from youth to professional level Why risk, bravery, and learning matter in player development 🎥 Free attacking throw-ins presentation (no login required): https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/post/how-throw-ins-can-create-goals-free-webinar ⚽ Modern Soccer Coach Insider — full webinar library, sessions & weekly bonus content: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions 🤝 Podcast sponsor: Duktig Brand Duktig produces premium notebooks and accessories for soccer coaches and players, featuring waterproof stone paper and professional designs. https://www.duktigbrand.com/ If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, and if you’re listening on audio, a quick rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify really helps support the show.

Zone 14 Coaching creates high-quality coach and player journals designed to help you plan with intention, reflect with purpose, and track progress all season long. MSC listeners get $5 off with code: ModernSoccer5 Learn more: zone14coaching.com This week Gary sits down with Fred Lipka, Technical Director of Youth Development at Major League Soccer. Few people have influenced the MLS academy landscape more over the past decade, and this conversation goes deep into what’s working, what’s broken, and what needs to change in US player and coach development. Fred shares powerful insight on why he believes American soccer has been “built upside down,” why the weekly rhythm should always be five days to develop, one day to perform, and why judging coaches solely by results is holding back both player development and coaching standards. We dive into: • The real purpose of youth competition • Why US soccer over-teaches with big numbers • The lack of 1v1 wingers and aggressive fullbacks • Touch limits, robotic players, and constraints-led training • Relative age effect and selecting the “big kids” too early • Why domestic coaches should stop feeling inferior • Inside the MLS–French Federation (EFCL) course • The rise of US talent and why Europe is watching • How MLS academies are building community, not isolation Fred’s honesty in this episode is exceptional, and his clarity on how to optimise the individual player — not just the team — is something every coach can learn from. If you enjoyed this episode, please: • Like the video • Subscribe to the channel • Leave a comment — Do you agree with Fred’s view on development vs results? Thanks for supporting the Modern Soccer Coach community.

Check out Zone 14 Coaching below: https://zone14coaching.com/ Check out MSC Insider: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions Are we making youth players too robotic? Two-time MLS Defender of the Year Ike Opara joins the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast to dive deep into youth development, problem solving, growth mindset, and why young players need far more than a fixed “system” to truly learn the game. We explore the growing tension between structure vs. adaptability and how the coaching behaviors we reward (clarity, certainty, strict patterns) sometimes discourage the exact qualities the modern game requires: courage, reflection, creativity, and independent decision-making. Ike shares insights from his career in MLS, his transition into coaching, the challenges he sees in the US youth landscape, and why reflection — not more information — is the missing link for most players. He also introduces Zone 14 Coaching, a company built by coaches for coaches, using intentional planning and reflective journaling to help players and coaches learn more deeply and stay engaged all season long. If you’re a coach, parent, or player who cares about player-centered development, this conversation hits every major topic shaping the future of youth coaching.

Check out Duktig Brand here: https://www.duktigbrand.com/ MSC Analysis Course (USE CODE: MSCTACTICAL) https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/challenge-page/ecourseanalysis Per Mertesacker joins Gary for a deep dive into youth development, leadership, and the Strong Young Gunners philosophy that drives Arsenal’s world-class academy. In this conversation, Per explains how football teaches life, why character is the foundation of performance, and how Arsenal balances high challenge with high care across every age group. From the purity of the foundation phase to creating adaptable modern players, he shares a transparent look at what it takes to build people and players capable of thriving in any environment. We also explore the four-pillar framework used inside the academy, the importance of lifelong learning for both staff and players, and the reality that less than one percent will make it as professionals. Per’s perspective is a masterclass for coaches, leaders, and anyone working in player development. Topics include: • Person-first development and daily standards • Strong Young Gunners philosophy • Balancing challenge and care • Foundation phase environment • Creativity, super strengths, and modern player profiles • Staff development and coaching pathways • Managing expectations with parents • Preparing young people for life beyond football • The future of coaching and youth environments

Join MSC Insider Now: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions In this episode, Gary is in Rio again to sit down with Caique Andrade from Flamengo’s U20 staff for an inside look at one of the world’s most demanding development environments. The conversation dives into the culture, expectations, and daily standards that shape young players at a club where intensity, identity, and pressure are part of the DNA. Caique discusses what defines a Flamengo player, how U20 athletes learn from world-class professionals every day, and why the club has shifted toward more technical and tactical profiles. He shares insights on creativity, decision making, analysis processes, and the challenges of working with players who come from diverse educational and social backgrounds. The discussion also explores the realities of the Brazilian pathway: constant competition, heavy match schedules, family expectations, and the resilience required to grow in an environment where opportunities are rare and the bar is extremely high. A fascinating look into culture, development, and the modern demands of youth football inside one of the biggest clubs in the world.