Is The Art of Defending Dead? Danny Collins & Ike Opara on the Center Back Position Today

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.

Watch Ray's full pressing webinar on MSC Insider below: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions Contact Ray directly about his coaching support: [email protected] In this episode, Gary welcomes Ray Power back to the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast for his third appearance — and one of the most important discussions yet. Together, they explore why modern coaching has become overly reliant on patterns, how this affects player decision-making, and what it means to truly coach with principles instead of prescriptions. From “shopping-list” pressing traps to “joystick coaching,” Ray shares his journey of ripping up rigid models and designing training that produces adaptable, creative, and resilient players. The pair also discuss the fear of losing that drives much of modern football, the difference between control and influence, and the role of everyday coach development in breaking those cycles.

In this episode of the MSC Podcast, Gary Curneen is joined by Natalie Henderson, Assistant Coach with the Canada Women’s National Team and former England and Newcastle United coach. Natalie's coach support work is below: padlockpad.com/nh-coach-support Together, they explore one of the most important — and often overlooked — challenges in modern football: how to stay authentic in a world full of information, judgment, and noise. Natalie opens up about: The growing pressure on coaches to “know everything” Finding balance between curiosity and confidence Leading experts across sports science, medicine, and analysis Creating authentic environments where players and staff can be themselves Protecting time for football amid meetings and distractions The “167 Rule” and why every coach plays a role in player psychology Building trust through genuine mentorship rather than tick-box programs From imposter syndrome to leadership, from player development to coach well-being, Natalie’s honesty shines through every topic. This is a must-listen for anyone trying to balance clarity, vulnerability, and growth in their coaching journey.

JOIN MSC INSIDER BELOW: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions As Martin O’Neill returns to Celtic Football Club, we revisit a powerful conversation that captures everything he stands for as a coach and leader. From his early days under Brian Clough to managing Leicester, Celtic, Aston Villa, and the Republic of Ireland, O’Neill has lived through every phase of football’s evolution — and he’s never lost sight of what truly matters. In this interview, Martin reflects on: The lessons from Brian Clough and why simplicity still wins in a complicated world. Rebuilding belief at Celtic, turning a 21-point deficit into a 6–2 victory over Rangers and a title-winning side. Managing upwards in the modern game, where CEOs, directors, and data often overshadow football people. Roy Keane’s impact on culture, standards, and leadership inside the dressing room. The dangers of over-analysis, and why clarity and trust will always be the foundation of coaching. It’s an honest, entertaining, and deeply relevant listen for any coach navigating today’s game — reminding us that football is still, at its core, about people, relationships, and belief.

In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast, Gary sits down in Brazil with Eduardo Oliviera, an experienced coach who has worked with Brazil youth national teams and U20 teams at Botofogo, Atletico Mineiro, and Fluminese. He is also the author of the excellent book: Brazilian Coaching Methodology: Foundation Phases (Ages 5-12). Eduardo offers a fascinating look at what truly defines Brazilian football — a culture that values joy, creativity, and learning through play, while still evolving within a modern, organized framework. 🔑 Key Topics Discussed The Foundation Phase in Brazil: How 5–12-year-olds learn through games, not constant instruction. Street Soccer & Futsal: Why “the game is the teacher” and how variety of surfaces, ages, and formats builds creativity. Pedagogical Progression: Moving from street → futsal → 6v6 → 11v11 as a logical learning journey. The Role of the Coach: When and how to intervene — and why observation can sometimes teach more than feedback. Balancing Structure & Freedom: “Be organized, but not too organized” — the secret to keeping Brazilian football’s soul alive. Parent & Cultural Challenges: Managing pressure, pay-to-play systems, and helping families understand long-term development. Education & the Player Pathway: Why Brazil’s “tripod” of school, club, and family must align for success. Relationism & Coaching Identity: How labels can limit understanding, and why context is everything. Developing Coaches as Learners: Treating coaches as your “players” and building IDPs to raise standards across an organization.