Tuesday 22 November 2011

Barcelona day 2.
Today started with a lecture by Football Catalunya regarding the structure they implement for coaches in the province starting at grass roots level. There is a massive emphasis on monitoring and improving coaches so they can alleviate any problems early in the piece, this also helps them coach to a standard everywhere. Some coaches resisted when this system was brought in but when they saw the improvements in the other coaches they jumped on board. The federation desires their coaches to be proactive and supportive of young players.
There seems to be a huge concern here with the psychological development of young players and ensuring that the result isn't the focus when they play football, it's about enjoyment and learning.
Perhaps this is what has been taking place at Upton Park for the last 10 years without them sharing it with the supporters? 
In the afternoon we had another session with Victor Sanchez the FCB fitness preparation coach, because we met him previously at RFEF it was not possible to ask open questions in front of the other coaches. this is what we were able to do today.
In response to the major question of Barcelona over the next 10 years they don't have any plans to change the system but they aim to continue their development at grass roots level across Catalunya and bring the best young players through to the first team at the right times.
In Milan this week, the team will be set up much differently to the way they played at home to Zaragoza but clearly not much more information was provided to us as regards Pep's tactics though.
In response to the question of tactical changes within the club, if something new is to be tried then it is implemented top down so they try it at senior level then introduce it across the board.
It was a very interesting session and it was followed by a visit to attend training at Barcelona's training camp outside the city.
It was very wet but very enjoyable.

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