How Slower Soccer Players Can Excel and Dominate

In the fast-paced world of soccer, speed is often considered an indispensable attribute. The sight of players like Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland leaving defenders in their dust is exhilarating, and it's easy to believe that speed is the ultimate determinant of success. However, there's so much more to the beautiful game than just outpacing opponents. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the strategies and skills that slower players can adopt to excel in soccer. From mastering positioning and ball control to exploiting the defender's speed, we explore how players can turn perceived weaknesses into unique strengths on the football field.

Speed is indeed a highly coveted attribute in the game. The ability to outpace opponents, rapidly change directions, and cover large distances are all perceived as key components of a successful player. But even though the game is getting faster, remember that speed is just one facet of the game, and lack of it should not be considered a career-ending limitation. Slower soccer players can not only compete but excel in the game by honing other skills and focusing on strategic elements.

To learn how to DEVELOP SPEED and see our tables for benchmarking your speed times, read our Quick Guide: Developing Speed for Young Soccer Players

Laureano Ruiz, with over 40 years of coaching exprience, is one of the most authoritative voices of FC Barcelona academy. He was the first team coach at the end of the 75/76 season and has always been closely connected with the academy and is considered one of the founders of the Club’s distinctive playing philosophy and the ideas about football that symbolize the Club today. Here is Ruiz’s view on the topic of speed.

“The combination of a good training program and playing in lots of matches will help with the execution speed, coordination speed, and tactical decision making, but I am very skeptical that body speed and reaction speed can be greatly improved. I would go further and suggest that players are born with natural speed and this is not something that can be improved a great deal...

On the other hand I can think of players like Koeman, who was a very intelligent player, able to execute tremendous technical skills quickly, but he was tremendously slow. His lack of pace was particularly evident when he needed to change pace or direction. These attributes stayed with him throughout his career, even when trained by Rinus Michels an extraordinary physical fitness coach...

Using Koeman as an example, it is blatantly obvious that those people who say that the most important thing in soccer is physical speed do not seem to have it quite right. This is because soccer is far more complex than other sports where all the skills and executions are constant and specific. This is why it is not so straightforward when referring to the "speed" of a soccer player. He has to get off the mark quickly, accelerate quickly, and react quickly. He needs to be able to perceive situations with speed and clarity, play the ball quickly (although at times the better players slow the game down in order to put the opposition off or when waiting for a teammate to get into position) and collaborate at speed with his teammates.

All these different facets make this a complicated and difficult game. Facing a certain situation with various possible solutions a player must choose the best in the shortest time possible. This choice is made using the mind (physiological), which is reflected in his reaction time, processing and sending out information via the nervous system, and making the best use of the ball (tactical) which is controlled by the "soccer brain".

...The game of soccer is all about making space, losing your marker and getting out of tight corners, not about confrontation, physical contact and crashing into opposition. As there is such little space to play in, speed and stamina are not as important as a good "soccer brain", mental agility, knowing how to "play" and "read" the game. Knowing how to deceive your opponent with tricks, cunning...”

As we can see also reflected in Laureano Ruiz’s view, not having great physical speed, doesn't mean success is out of reach, not at all; it just means it must be found in different ways, through different play styles and strategies.

Embracing Specialization

First and foremost, slower players should accept that they can't emulate the playing styles of faster players such as Holland, Mbappe, or Dembele. These athletes clock speeds over 35 kilometers per hour, which many players will not be able to match.

A key strategy for slower players is to identify and specialize in a particular area of the game. For example, Tony Cruz and Georginio distinguish themselves through superior passing ability and field vision. Andrea Pirlo and Bernardo Silva display exceptional ball control and composure, even in tight spaces. Players like Xavi or Busquets have an extraordinary understanding of the game and are able to anticipate what will happen next through their off-ball movements.

Analyzing the gameplay of successful yet slower players like Andrea Pirlo, Andrés Iniesta, David Beckham, Xavi Hernandez, Bernardo Silva, Busquets, and the likes who are all considered world-class players but are slower and less athletic, offers valuable insights. A closer look at their games reveals that these players excel in technical or tactical areas.

Whatever a player's specialty—be it superior finishing ability, leadership, 1v1 defending/attacking, or sheer size and strength—slower players should focus on these skills and stand out by excelling in these areas.

Understanding Positioning

A player's understanding of positioning can more than compensate for a lack of speed. Proper positioning can allow a player to intercept passes, block shots, and initiate counterattacks without needing to sprint across the field. Positional awareness is all about predicting the trajectory of the game, understanding the opponent's patterns, and being at the right place at the right time. Mastering this skill requires a deep understanding of the game, constant vigilance, and effective communication with teammates.

Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez is an excellent example of a player who relied on exceptional positioning rather than speed. Xavi's understanding of the game allowed him to constantly be in the right place at the right time, intercepting passes and dictating the pace of the game. His positional intelligence enabled him to initiate attacks and break down defenses without relying on speed. To improve positioning, players should study the game intensely, stay alert to the flow of the game, and communicate effectively with teammates.

Ball Control and Passing

Ball control is another essential aspect of the game that slower players can master. The ability to receive a pass cleanly, maintain possession under pressure, and accurately distribute the ball can make a player invaluable to their team. By improving their first touch and passing accuracy, slower players can effectively contribute to their team's offensive and defensive efforts.

Andrea Pirlo, the legendary Italian midfielder, was not known for his speed. However, his remarkable ball control and passing ability made him one of the most revered players of his generation. Pirlo's ability to receive the ball under pressure, maintain possession, and distribute accurate passes was a cornerstone of his success. His precise long passes and through balls often tore apart defenses, illustrating that speed isn't the only way to break lines in soccer. To emulate Pirlo, players should focus on improving their first touch, passing accuracy, and ability to maintain composure under pressure.

First Touch

Another critical tactic for slower players is mastering the art of the first touch to create space for themselves. This can provide them more time on the ball and help them get away from faster or more agile defenders. A well-executed first touch can shift the advantage from a quicker defender to a slower player, as it can give the latter more time to make the next move. Conversely, a poor touch can lead to a 50/50 scenario where the advantage swings to the faster defender.

Feints and Deception

Feints and deception play a critical role in the success of slower soccer players. These techniques can be as valuable as speed in deceiving and outmaneuvering opponents. A well-executed feint can send a defender in the wrong direction, providing the slower player with space and time to execute their next move. This could be a pass, shot, or cross, executed without the pressure of an immediate challenge. Furthermore, deceptive body movements and clever footwork can disguise a player's true intentions, causing the defender to hesitate or commit prematurely. This momentary uncertainty can be exploited, allowing the slower player to gain the upper hand. For instance, slower players can use deception to manipulate an opponent's momentum, causing them to overcommit or change direction, thereby creating an opportunity for the slower player to retain or advance the ball. Busquets and Zidane were master of this strategy. Hence, mastering feints and deception is a powerful way for slower players to level the playing field and excel in soccer.

Building Physical Strength

Physical strength plays a significant role in soccer. A stronger player can hold off opponents, win headers, and resist challenges more effectively. Enhancing physical strength can also improve shooting power and stamina, enabling slower players to maintain a high level of performance throughout the match. Regular strength training and conditioning exercises are vital for developing this attribute.

Milan and France striker, Olivier Giroud, is an excellent example of a slower player who leverages his physical strength to excel in the game. His physical strength, combined with his technical skills, has made him a consistent performer at the highest level of soccer.

Standing at 6'4", Giroud uses his strength to shield the ball from defenders, allowing him to maintain possession even when under pressure. His physical power also enables him to win aerial battles, making him a significant threat during set-pieces and crosses into the box. Despite not being blessed with exceptional pace, Giroud's strength enables him to hold up the ball and bring his teammates into play, often serving as the focal point of his team's attacks.

Game IQ

Tactical intelligence is crucial for every soccer player, but it becomes even more essential for those lacking speed. A tactically smart player can read the game well, make smart decisions on the ball, and exploit space effectively. They understand when to press, when to hold back, and how to coordinate with their teammates to maximize their team's chances of success. Studying game footage, learning from experienced players and coaches, and regularly playing against tactically astute opponents can all help enhance a player's tactical understanding.

Xavi Hernandez, one of the greatest midfielders of all time, has frequently highlighted the importance of quick thinking in football. In numerous interviews and public statements, Xavi has emphasized that football is more a mental game than a physical one, and that the speed of a player's thoughts is more important than the speed of their legs.

Xavi said, “Most of my opponents were quicker and stronger than me. Decision-making is what controls our actions. Some players have a mental top speed of 80 while others are capable of reaching 200. I always tried to reach 200.”

Thinking faster is a critical component of success in soccer, especially for slower players. The ability to quickly assess situations, make rapid decisions, and anticipate the opponent's moves can provide a significant advantage on the pitch. This is a skill that slower players can develop to compensate for their lack of pace.

One of the best examples of a player who excels in thinking faster is Luka Modric, the Croatian midfielder renowned for his time at Real Madrid. While not being the quickest player physically, Modric's mental speed and ability to make fast, intelligent decisions have made him one of the world's best midfielders.

Modric consistently demonstrates an ability to read the game quickly, anticipating the flow of play, and making decisive passes before opponents can react. His quick thinking enables him to spot and exploit gaps in the opponent's defense, often resulting in goal-scoring opportunities for his team.

Thinking faster also involves rapidly assessing potential threats and acting accordingly. Modric is adept at recognizing danger, often positioning himself effectively to intercept passes and disrupt the opponent's attacks.

To develop faster thinking, players should focus on improving their understanding of the game. This involves studying matches, understanding different tactics, and regularly playing against high-quality opponents. Training drills that enhance decision-making speed under pressure, such as small-sided games or high-intensity passing drills, can also be beneficial. Enhancing the speed of play also hinges greatly on vision and awareness. Therefore, cultivating the habit to continuously scanning the field is key. Ideally, a player should strategize and decide on their next move with the ball even before they receive it.

Mastering Set Pieces

Set pieces such as corners, free kicks, and penalties can significantly impact a soccer match's outcome. Slower players can specialize in delivering or converting set pieces, providing their team with another avenue for scoring goals. Practicing different types of deliveries and shots, understanding the dynamics of the defensive wall, and studying the goalkeeper's tendencies can all contribute to becoming a set piece specialist.

David Beckham, the former England captain, was renowned for his extraordinary ability to deliver and convert set pieces. Despite not being the fastest player, Beckham's precision from dead-ball situations was a critical asset to his teams. His ability to curve the ball past defensive walls and into the net was unparalleled, and his precise deliveries from corners often resulted in goals. Practicing different types of deliveries and studying the dynamics of defensive walls can help players become more effective at set pieces.

Leadership and Mental Toughness

Finally, leadership and mental toughness is a key attribute that can set slower players apart. The ability to stay focused under pressure, maintain confidence despite setbacks, and motivate oneself and teammates are all aspects of mental toughness that can contribute significantly to a player's success on the pitch. Mindfulness exercises, sports psychology techniques, and consistent mental conditioning can help build this crucial quality.

Francesco Totti, the talismanic AS Roma forward, was known for his leadership and mental toughness. Despite not being the fastest player, Totti's ability to stay focused, maintain confidence despite setbacks, and inspire his teammates set him apart. His mental strength was evident in his performance under pressure, notably in high-stakes matches and penalty situations. Mindfulness exercises, sports psychology techniques, and regular mental conditioning can help players build the mental toughness that defined Totti's career.

Barcelona's defensive midfielder, Sergio Busquets, is a quintessential example of a slower field player who embodies both mental toughness and exceptional leadership. Busquets has been a cornerstone of Barcelona and Spain's success for more than a decade. Busquets' mental toughness is evident in his ability to stay composed under pressure. His role as a defensive midfielder often puts him in high-stress situations, where he needs to break up the opposition's plays and maintain possession. Despite these challenges, Busquets consistently exhibits calmness and poise, confidently making crucial decisions that affect the game's outcome.

His leadership shines both on and off the pitch. As one of the more experienced members of the squad, Busquets leads by example, demonstrating a high work ethic, professional attitude, and an unwavering commitment to the team. His direction and communication on the field are invaluable in organizing the team's defense and orchestrating attacks. His teammates often look to him for guidance during challenging moments, and his presence provides a stabilizing influence.

Style of Play For Slower Players

Fast players like Mbappe, Dembele, and Holland take advantage of their blistering pace to dominate the game, making it tempting for slower players to mimic their style. However, this emulation could be a mistake. In soccer, like in any sport, understanding your strengths and limitations is key to optimizing performance.

Adopting a playstyle that doesn't complement one's natural abilities can lead to difficulties on the pitch. For instance, a common tactic among fast players is to take heavy touches, knocking the ball several yards ahead and using their speed to reclaim it before defenders can intervene. Mbappe and Gareth Bale are famous for taking big touches and leaving players in the dust. This strategy exploits their speed and the element of surprise, but for slower players, it could be a recipe for losing possession. The slower player simply cannot reach the ball as quickly, giving faster defenders an advantage.

Due to his exceptional speed, Alfonso Davies can afford to have an imperfect first touch, yet still triumph in a 1v1 duel. His ability to swiftly recover the ball makes any mistakes seem non-existent. However, for a slower player, the same scenario would likely result in having to commit a foul or risk a counter-attack. Slower players must place extra emphasis on their first touch to create the necessary space for themselves, thereby enabling them to keep possession of the ball.

Similarly, making runs for through balls, another strategy widely used by fast players, may not work well for slower athletes. This approach requires the player to outpace defenders to reach the ball, a feat easier said than done for those who aren't as fast-footed. Attempting this without the necessary speed could lead to lost opportunities and fewer scoring chances. Instead, often it’s better for slower players to request the ball to feet and check in toward the ball.

Additional Strategies for Slower Players

Manipulating Defender's Momentum
Slower players can use a defender's speed to their advantage by manipulating the defender's momentum. For example, if a defender is running at full speed, a slower player can feint going one way and then quickly change direction. The defender, due to their momentum, will likely take longer to change direction, allowing the slower player to create space and time for themselves.
Drawing in Defenders and Releasing a Pass
Another way slower players can exploit a defender's speed is by drawing them in before releasing a pass. As the defender approaches at speed, the slower player can hold onto the ball until the last possible moment before delivering a pass to a teammate. The momentum of the onrushing defender will carry them past the slower player, leaving the recipient of the pass with more space to operate.
Using Body Positioning and Shielding
Body positioning and shielding the ball are crucial skills slower players can use against faster defenders. By keeping their body between the ball and the defender, slower players can use the defender's speed against them, forcing them to slow down, change direction, or risk committing a foul. This technique requires strength and balance but can be highly effective.
Exploiting Overcommitment
Faster defenders, confident in their pace, often commit to challenges that they believe they'll reach first due to their speed. A clever slower player can bait these defenders into overcommitting before swiftly passing or maneuvering the ball away. This leaves the defender out of position, creating advantageous situations for the slower player and their team.
Quick One-Two Passes
Another classic example of using a defender's speed against them is through quick one-two passes. The slower player passes the ball to a teammate and then moves into space. The defender, attempting to intercept the pass, may move out of position, allowing the slower player to receive the return pass in a better position.

All these examples emphasize the importance of tactical understanding and technical skills over sheer speed, allowing slower players to turn the tables on their faster opponents.

The Speed of Play Paradox

The speed of play paradox in soccer, as discussed by Matt Sheldon in this video, sheds light on the intriguing dynamics that contribute to the perceived abundance of time and space at the professional level compared to lower tiers of the game. Sheldon identifies three key factors that explain this phenomenon: skill level, defensive tactics, and tactical awareness.

At the heart of the paradox lies the superior skill level of professional players. They possess advanced technical abilities and decision-making skills, allowing them to execute plays with remarkable speed and precision. This efficiency often manifests in quick passing sequences and one or two-touch maneuvers, creating the illusion of more time and space on the ball.

Furthermore, professional teams employ sophisticated defensive tactics that capitalize on this high level of skill. Rather than resorting to mindless pressing, they adopt a more organized and strategic approach, cutting off passing lanes and waiting for opportune moments to apply pressure. This methodical defense forces opponents into hurried decisions, amplifying the perception of limited time and space.

In addition to defensive tactics, professional players demonstrate a heightened tactical awareness that contributes to the paradox. They possess a deeper understanding of team shape, movement, and positioning, allowing them to anticipate plays more effectively and position themselves advantageously on the field. This strategic acumen enables them to navigate tight spaces and evade defenders with ease, further reinforcing the illusion of extended time and space.

Overall, the speed of play paradox in soccer is a complex interplay of skill, tactics, and tactical awareness. While the game at the professional level is characterized by increased pace and intensity, the mastery of these elements by professional players creates the impression of a slower-paced game with more time and space—a testament to the intricacies of soccer at its highest levels.

Bottom Line

While speed is undoubtedly a prized asset in soccer, it isn't the sole determinant of success. Players lacking the blistering pace, can still carve out highly successful careers by focusing on their tactical understanding, technical skills, and mental abilities. The game is multifaceted, and there's room for players of all speeds to thrive and excel. By adopting the strategies outlined in this guide, slower players can turn the tables on their faster opponents, underlining the fact that soccer is as much a game of the mind and technique as it is of athleticism and raw speed. The journey to becoming a successful soccer player, regardless of your speed, requires dedication, discipline, and a willingness to continually develop and grow. With the right (grwoth) mindset and approach, players not gifted with speed, can absolutely make a significant impact on the pitch and contribute to the success of their team and advance him/herself to the highest levels.

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