Training Methodology of the Real Madrid Foundation (Patreon)

Introduction

The term "method" is defined by the Royal Spanish Academy as "a way of saying or doing something, a mode of action and procedure, a process followed in sciences to teach." In our methodology, we integrate various teaching methods to optimize educational development. We believe that it is the responsibility of the coach-educator to determine the most effective strategies for each age group, adapting to the unique context of each training session.

General Guidelines

Our methodology is guided by a set of fundamental principles:

• The coach leads the training process, while allowing players to contribute their input and actions.

• At the beginning of the season, clear rules should be established for the group and consistently followed in all sessions.

• For beginner groups, corrections should be made individually during the task execution. For more advanced players, corrections should be both ongoing and post-activity.

• Positive reinforcement is essential to encourage desirable behaviors.

• Punishment should be used sparingly and should not be associated with physical tasks.

• Behavioral reinforcement is prioritized over results.

• A balanced perspective on winning and losing is emphasized in player development.

• Players should actively participate in training and take on responsibilities.

• The coach-educator maintains a prominent position outside the group to provide guidance.

• Open communication is encouraged between the coach and players to foster motivation and feedback.

• Coaches should show genuine interest in players' lives, understanding their concerns and aspirations.

• The focus is on self-improvement and recognizing contributions, no matter how small.

• The pace of training exercises is determined by the coach based on the group's progress.

• Group organization is adapted to the requirements of each exercise.

Tactical Approach

In the learning process, players must execute movements at the right place and time, with the ball, alongside teammates, and in opposition to opponents. Their actions are influenced by their personal intent, the coach’s instructions, their teammates’ strategies, and external factors such as opponents, referees, spectators, game score, and match progression.

Tactics are categorized into offensive and defensive actions, as well as game organization principles.

Offensive Principles:

• Off-the-ball movements;

• Overlaps;

• Utilization of open spaces;

• Support plays;

• Quick passing combinations;

• Delaying actions to create opportunities;

• Switching the point of attack.

Defensive Principles:

• Marking;

• Retreating to defensive positions;

• Covering teammates;

• Switching defensive assignments;

• Using body positioning effectively.

Game Organization:

• Offensive and defensive transitions;

• Optimal field positioning;

• Zone, man-to-man, and mixed defense systems;

• Collective pressing;

• Tactical formations;

• Strategic game planning;

• Coordinated team actions.

Teaching Tactical Concepts

The goal is to ensure that players understand tactical principles in the clearest and most pedagogical manner possible. Every coach-educator must introduce fundamental tactical concepts and provide structured exposure to both offensive and defensive strategies. In addition, they should educate players on game organization principles.

This didactic approach guides the instruction of tactical elements. Two game system examples are introduced to illustrate these concepts, with a simple and direct strategic approach designed to serve as a framework for all coaches. The players’ developmental capacity dictates the level of information provided at each stage.

The progression of tactical instruction follows a structured path:

• From simple to complex;

• From concrete examples to abstract understanding.

As educators, we must possess a deep knowledge of technical and tactical terminology and communicate these concepts clearly and effectively to players. Our ultimate goal is to develop well-rounded footballers who are not only skilled on the field but also capable of understanding the game’s nuances in a structured and intelligent manner.

Reference: Real Madrid Foundation Didactic Guide