Set-piece coaches are revolutionizing the beautiful game, with their innovative strategies and unique approaches to gain an advantage on matchday. In recent years, many clubs have employed set-piece coaches, including Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Leicester City. These coaches work alongside analysts and other specialists to create attacking strategies that maximize their team’s set-piece threats.
Set-Piece Goals: A Significant Impact
Set-piece goals account for 29% of the total scored in the Premier League and Championship so far this season. This significant impact has led clubs to invest in dedicated set-piece coaches to assist the performance process, not to control it. To get buy-in from players, these coaches focus on outcomes and results, celebrating small wins across a season when set-piece strategies go right.
Specialist Coaches: A Growing Trend
Premier League clubs are enlisting specialist coaches to improve their performance, including set-piece coaches, analysts, statisticians, and scientists. These coaches have a unique understanding of their field and use data to improve efficiency in both boxes. The most progressive clubs are employing a range of specialists, including those who focus on throw-ins, ball striking, and neuroscience, to leverage marginal gains.
Unique Approaches: Liverpool’s Success
Liverpool is one club that has embraced this trend, hiring former bobsledder Thomas Gronnemark to maximize their efficiency in throw-ins. Under Gronnemark’s guidance, Liverpool went from 18th to 1st in throw-in possession under pressure. The club also invited high-wave surfer Sebastian Steudtner to their preseason training camp to work with the players on holding their breath underwater to retain focus and calm under pressure.
The Future of Soccer Coaching
As the game continues to evolve, the role of specialist coaches will become increasingly important. By embracing new ideas and leveraging the expertise of these innovators, clubs can gain a competitive edge on the pitch. The future of soccer coaching will likely see even more unique approaches and specialists, transforming the game and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.