In modern football, being prepared by the age of majority can make the difference between being left behind or breaking through to professionalism. The integral development of the player does not depend solely on natural talent, but also on the ability to master technical, physical, tactical and mental skills during the formative years. At academies like SIA Academy, it is understood that young players must acquire these resources before 18 in order to confidently face the leap to more competitive levels.
Table of contents
Ball control and handling
The first essential skill is absolute control of the ball. A player must be able to precisely control any pass or clearance, regardless of the speed or height at which they receive the ball. This control is not only about technique, but also about reaction speed and game reading.
According to José Luis, coach at SIA Academy, “a footballer who controls the ball well has more time and options to decide on the field. Control is the foundation for everything else.”
In the academy’s training sessions, progressive drills are used, from simple receptions to real pressure scenarios where the player must resolve situations in seconds.
Passing ability and game vision
A footballer aspiring to the elite must understand that passing is not only a technical resource, but also a tactical skill to create advantages. Before the age of 18, it is essential to have developed the ability to deliver accurate passes at different distances and, above all, to have the vision to anticipate teammates’ movements.
At SIA Academy, quick decision-making is encouraged through small-sided possession drills and orientation games. This helps players improve their ability to find solutions under pressure.
Finishing and offensive ability
Every footballer, regardless of position, should master the skill of shooting at goal. The ability to finish plays is a decisive weapon in modern football. The goal is for young players to learn to finish with both feet, with the head, and in different game situations.
Finishing is not worked on as a repetitive mechanic alone, but in scenarios that simulate reality: limited time, nearby defenders and emotional pressure. In this way, players reach 18 ready to seize any opportunity.
Physical condition and endurance
Talent without physical preparation loses effectiveness. Before turning 18, a player must have reached an optimal level of endurance, strength, and speed adapted to their category. It is not about training like an adult professional, but about building solid foundations that allow them to withstand the intensity of competition.
In this regard, SIA Academy combines specific physical training with a focus on injury prevention. This ensures that physical development goes hand in hand with the technical and mental progress of the players.
Tactical intelligence
One of the greatest challenges in formative football is teaching players to read the game. Understanding different systems of play, identifying free spaces, adapting to different roles, and anticipating the opponent’s decisions are aspects that make the difference at the elite level.
José Luis highlights that “tactics are not just a matter for coaches; a player who understands the game can multiply both their own performance and that of the team.” For this reason, at SIA Academy sessions are designed that combine theory with practice on the field, strengthening each player’s analytical capacity.
Mental strength and resilience
Football is not only played with the feet, but also with the head. Facing the pressure of a match, overcoming mistakes, staying focused in difficult moments, and working on self-confidence are fundamental skills.
At SIA Academy, sports psychologists and emotional support methodologies are integrated to help young players develop resilience. They are taught that mistakes are part of the process and that what truly matters is the response after an error.
Team spirit and communication skills
Football is a collective sport, and no individual talent can shine without the support of the group. That is why, before turning 18, a player must learn to communicate with teammates, work as a unit, and accept both the role of leader and that of support depending on the needs of the team.
The academy places strong emphasis on group dynamics, where the importance of collaboration and mutual respect is reinforced. In this way, players understand that their personal growth is linked to the success of the whole.
Reaching 18 with a solid set of skills is no easy task, but it is the requirement for those who dream of competing at the highest level. Ball control, game vision, finishing, physical condition, tactical intelligence, mental strength and team spirit make up the top 7 skills that every footballer must master.
SIA Academy has established itself as a space where these qualities are trained in an integral way, with a modern and professional approach that prepares young players for the challenges of the future. With the guidance of coaches like José Luis, players not only perfect their technical abilities, but also acquire the mindset necessary to excel in today’s football.
