By Carlos Lago-Peñas

We all train to improve. That seems obvious. But how often do we see players complete hundreds of exercises without making significant progress?

I believe the coach makes a huge difference. Good coaches help players learn faster. And they do not necessarily need more exercises, longer sessions or complicated explanations. They need to know exactly what they want players to learn. Here are three simple steps that can make a difference on the training pitch.

Tell players what they need to learn

Imagine you are coaching a team that struggles to react after losing possession. Before starting a small-sided game, give the players one clear objective: “When we lose the ball, react immediately and try to win it back.” That’s it. Do not explain five tactical principles or introduce several objectives at once. Players should know exactly what they are trying to improve. If they know what they are looking for, they have a better chance of finding it.

Give players two or three things to focus on

Once the objective is clear, players need to know what successful performance looks like. For our example, give them three simple cues:

• React immediately when possession is lost.
• Press the ball carrier if you are the closest player.
• Close passing options if you are supporting the press.
  Now players know what to look for.

These cues must be clear, observable and directly related to the objective. Avoid vague messages such as “Be more aggressive” or “Concentrate!” Players need information they can actually use.

Correct and reinforce only what matters

During the game, you will see many mistakes. A poor pass, a missed shot, a bad defensive position. But remember the objective: reacting after losing possession.
If a player loses the ball and immediately presses, reinforce that behaviour.
“Excellent reaction! That’s exactly what we want.” If another player stops running after losing possession, remind them:

“React immediately. Don’t wait!”

Ignore unrelated mistakes for now. You cannot teach everything at the same time. If you try, players may end up learning very little.

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Three steps to accelerate players’ learning

Remember: One objective. Few cues. Focused feedback.

Take it to the pitch

There is one final recommendation I consider especially important. Before training, write down not only the exercises you want to use but also the messages you intend to give your players. Good coaches can see many things. But players cannot focus on everything. If your objective is clear, your cues are specific and your feedback is consistent, you give players a better opportunity to learn.

Better training is not about saying more. It is about helping players focus on what really matters.

About the author
Carlos Lago-Peñas is Professor at the University of Vigo, Spain, and author of The Spanish Way:

Train to Win, a practical guide to improving players, training sessions and match performance.

Discover The Spanish Way: Train to Win
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0HPGTDDM2