Be a Good Central Midfielder in Soccer
Do you want to become an excellent Central Midfielder like Xavi? If so, these tips are just for you
Steps
- Get some experience playing soccer/football. Central midfield is the most challenging position to master because the game revolves around you and it takes time be a good midfielder.
- Be fit. Check out How to get fit. Build stamina. It's important to be a good athlete; it is crucial to be fit for this position. It is the most important position on the field. (You shouldn't be pacey; it's actually unnecessary to be fast).
- Have good technical ability. Work on your skills. Ball skills should be above average or exemplary because you are the man who holds the ball for most of the time and you cannot lose the ball.
- You should be able to control, pass and receive the ball well. (Not only with your feet but other parts of your body like chest and thighs.)
- Be able to dribble very well.
- Be willing and able to pass. If you are not good at passing, do not bother to play in the midfield (CAM ,CM, CDM). The midfield is were the magic happens were the people with the best skill of distributing the ball play. You must to play in the air and on the ground with short passes both of which should be weighted properly. You should be the player who can read and analyse the game and spot runs your team-mates are making and execute a pass.
- This is crucial as central midfielders should be able to create more chances for their team to score. This is why they are called playmakers.
- Work on your defensive maneuvers. Central midfield is not only about attack. You are the engine that keeps the team going offensively and defensively.
- Don't overcommit and stab! Force the offense to make a mistake or force them to play the ball backwards!
- Be aware of the ball and any shooting opportunities. Always take note of who is around you and move into space when off the ball.
- Have good vision. This will enable you to move the ball around well and create scoring opportunities. You as a center Mid has to control the play. This means distributing the ball and checking to every ball.
- Shoot when you can. It is not a crucial part of midfield but given you are not usually in the box, an occasional nice shot is always a great bonus.
Tips
- The first touch is very important. Always direct your first touch away from the opposing players.
- Another important aspect of being a midfielder is to know where you are on the field and be aware of your surroundings.
- Another aspect of being a midfielder when before receiving the ball know what you are going to do with the ball and never be afraid to hold the ball.
- Work hard. Never think you are perfect.
- Good balance between attack & defense.
- Always have a positive outlook on the game.
- If you want to become as good as one of the pros you must make a commitment towards soccer.
- Look to engage your whole team.
- Must have sharp turning.
- You don't have to use fancy footwork in a 1 v 1 situation. a simple shoulder fake or a quick change in directions will work. Some of the best players in the world don't use tricky moves unless it is needed. Use the moves that work the best for you and that are the most effective.
- Always be looking for the ball.
- Pick the right passes, so that your team is at an advantage after you release the ball, timing is also very important.
- Soccer Players should have good team spirit.
- Keep practicing the basics.
Warnings
- Practice with both feet. Its essential that you know how to control, pass, and cross the ball on both sides of the pitch.
- Remember, soccer is a contact sport and you should be willing to get physical to win the ball.
- Try not to get injured. That would stink!
- Don't push your body. If your body tells you to stop, just stop.
- Never eat less. on the contrary eat more. That way your body has more than enough energy when train for futbol.
Things You'll Need
- A pitch/a grassy area
- A friend
- A soccer ball
- Good pair of cleats or turfs depending on the type of field.
- Shorts/sweatpants
- Shin guards come in handy.
- Mouth guard
