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Goal-Scoring Glory and Grassroots Growth: Lillie’s Rise, Freddie’s Progress, and Spurs’ Challenge!




Hello NexxtGen Football community,


⚽ Grassroots Football Updates


📢 The Football Association (FA) has announced significant changes to grassroots youth football in England, set to take effect from the 2026-27 season. 🚀 This initiative, termed 'FutureFit,' aims to enhance the experience for young players by increasing engagement, physical activity, and skill development. Key changes include:


  • 3v3 Format for U7s: 🧒🏽 Aimed at maximising engagement, this format offers an excellent introduction to football for the youngest players. 🎯

  • Progression of Formats: 📈 Playing formats will transition one year later, with 11v11 moving from U13s to U14s, aligning better with player development stages. 🏅

  • Alignment with Educational Phases: 🎓 The initiative proposes that primary school children play smaller formats with simplified rules, progressing to more complex formats like 9v9 in secondary school. 🏫

  • Age-Appropriate Laws of the Game: 📜 Adjustments are being made to ensure that the laws support the developmental needs of young players, such as changes to game restarts for U7s-U9s to increase ball-in-play time. ⚽

These changes are based on extensive research, including studies of over 400 grassroots games in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University. 🧠 Workshops and resources will be provided to support coaches, clubs, and leagues in implementing these changes effectively. 💡


⚡ Lillie's Remarkable Progress


Lillie’s performance with Wormley Rovers FC U8s has been nothing short of extraordinary. 🌟 Her impressive goal tally of 72 goals in just 17 games highlights her exceptional talent and consistency. 🥅 Her ability to excel against higher-ability teams, especially after multiple promotions, is commendable. 👏 Her recent training sessions with Tottenham Hotspur are a testament to her potential, and it's understandable that she will need to pause her participation with Bows Soccer Academy during this period. 💼


⚽ Freddie's Development


Freddie's continued commitment to training with Bows Soccer Academy and Elite Ballers demonstrates his dedication to improving his skills. 🏋️‍♂️ The transition from 7-a-side to 9-a-side is a significant step, and it's encouraging that Elite Ballers recognise his potential. 🌱 His consistent training and development are positive indicators for his future in the sport. 💪


🏅 Archie's Achievement


Archie's recent accolade as Player of the Month for February with CHARS Youth U12 Blues is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work and adaptability. 🏆 His coach's praise for his attitude and versatility across various positions underscores his value to the team. 💥


🔥 Tottenham Hotspur's Current Situation


Tottenham Hotspur faces a challenging Europa League tie against AZ Alkmaar this evening. 🌍 Manager Ange Postecoglou has acknowledged the importance of this match, especially given the team's earlier exits from domestic cup competitions and mid-table Premier League position. ⚔️ The absence of key midfielder Dejan Kulusevski, due to a foot injury, poses a significant challenge. ❌ Kulusevski's contribution this season has been notable, and his absence will be felt in the upcoming fixtures. 🏃‍♂️ Postecoglou's strategy will need to adapt accordingly to maintain the team's competitiveness in these crucial matches. 📊


From the Touchline: Coaching, Grassroots Growth & Spurs Struggles




Hello NexxtGen Football community,


It's been a while since my last update, and I'm excited to share some recent developments both personally and within the broader football landscape.


Coaching Endeavors with CHARS Youth U12 Blues


I'm thrilled to announce that I've been co-coaching the CHARS Youth U12 Blues alongside Brett Cartlidge. The team's progress has been remarkable, showcasing impressive skills and teamwork on the pitch. A special mention to my son, Archie, who is part of this talented squad. We're gearing up for a challenging away match against PST Pro this Sunday and are optimistic about our performance.


Lillie's Outstanding Achievements with Wormley Rovers U8 Girls Red


My daughter, Lillie, has been making waves with the Wormley Rovers U8 Girls Red team. In just 15 games, she's netted an astonishing 66 goals! Her dedication and passion are truly commendable. Tomorrow, Lillie and her teammates have the honour of participating in the Tottenham Hotspur Global Football Development NextGen Festival at the Spurs Training Ground. While parents aren't permitted to watch, I'm confident they'll shine brightly.


Freddie's New Journey with Elite Ballers


My son, Freddie, has recently joined the U10 training sessions at Elite Ballers. After a brief hiatus from Wormley Rovers, he's continued his development with Bows Soccer Academy on Monday nights and now adds Elite Ballers to his Friday routine. It's heartening to see his enthusiasm and commitment to the sport.


Gratitude to Bows Soccer Academy


Both Lillie and Freddie benefit immensely from their sessions at Bows Soccer Academy. A huge thank you to Ben Bowditch and his team for their unwavering support and excellent coaching. Their dedication to nurturing young talent is truly making a difference.


Grassroots Football: Embracing Inclusivity


In the broader context of grassroots football, there's a significant push towards inclusivity. The FA has launched the "Enough is Enough" campaign, aiming to raise awareness of discriminatory behaviour in grassroots football and highlight the consequences for perpetrators of hate.


Additionally, the "Her Game Too" campaign continues to combat sexism in football, striving to create a more welcoming environment for female players and fans.


Reflecting on Tottenham's Recent Form


As a devoted Tottenham supporter, it's been a challenging period. Our recent exit from the Carabao Cup after a 4-0 defeat to Liverpool was disappointing. Manager Ange Postecoglou acknowledged that Liverpool were "too good for us" in that match.


Injuries have plagued the squad, further complicating our campaign. Despite these setbacks, players like Dejan Kulusevski have expressed unwavering support for Postecoglou's vision, emphasising the need for resilience during these times.


Looking ahead, it's crucial for the team to regroup, address these challenges, and focus on finishing the season strong.


Thank you all for your continued support and passion for the beautiful game. Let's keep pushing forward, both on and off the pitch.


Best regards,


Steve Halls


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Enzo Maresca: From Midfield Maestro to Chelsea FC Manager




Enzo Maresca's appointment as the new Chelsea FC manager marks a significant milestone in the storied career of a football figure known for his tactical acumen and deep understanding of the game. His journey from a talented midfielder to one of the most promising managers in modern football is a testament to his dedication, intelligence, and passion for the sport. This article delves into Maresca's early days as a player, his successes on the pitch, his tenure at Leicester City, and his seamless transition into management at Chelsea.


Early Days and Playing Career


Enzo Maresca was born on February 10, 1980, in Pontecagnano Faiano, Italy. His football journey began in the youth ranks of AC Milan, one of Italy's most prestigious clubs. Although he didn't make a senior appearance for Milan, his potential was evident, and he moved to Cagliari in 1998. It was here that Maresca began to make a name for himself, showcasing his skills as a creative and intelligent midfielder.


Maresca's performances caught the eye of several top clubs, and in 2000, he signed with Juventus, one of the giants of Italian football. Despite stiff competition for places, Maresca managed to carve out a role for himself, contributing to the team's success with his vision and technical prowess. His time at Juventus included winning the Serie A title, further solidifying his reputation as a talented midfielder.


Successes on the Pitch


In 2002, Maresca moved to Piacenza on loan, where he gained valuable playing time and experience. His journey continued with a transfer to West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League in 2004. Although his stint in England was brief, it added another dimension to his game, exposing him to the fast-paced and physical nature of English football.


Maresca's most notable playing years came during his time in Spain with Sevilla FC. Joining the club in 2005, Maresca became an integral part of the team that enjoyed remarkable success domestically and in Europe. He played a crucial role in Sevilla's back-to-back UEFA Cup triumphs in 2006 and 2007. His performances in these tournaments were instrumental, earning him accolades and recognition as one of the top midfielders in Europe.


In addition to his European success, Maresca helped Sevilla win the Copa del Rey and the UEFA Super Cup. His ability to control the tempo of the game, combined with his leadership qualities, made him a fan favourite and a respected figure in the dressing room.


Transition into Management


After retiring as a player in 2017, Maresca wasted no time in transitioning into management. His deep understanding of the game, honed over years of playing at the highest level, made him a natural fit for a coaching role. He began his coaching career with Ascoli in Italy's Serie B, gaining valuable experience in the demanding environment of Italian football.


Maresca's big break in management came when he joined Manchester City's coaching staff under Pep Guardiola. Working alongside one of the most innovative and successful managers in modern football, Maresca absorbed Guardiola's philosophies and tactical insights. This experience proved invaluable, shaping his approach to management and providing him with a solid foundation for his coaching career.


Success at Leicester City


However, Maresca's managerial prowess truly came to the forefront during his time at Leicester City. The Italian took over at the King Power Stadium in the summer of 2023 and guided Leicester back to the Premier League at the first time of asking. In his only season with the Foxes, Maresca won an impressive 31 out of 46 Championship games, demonstrating his ability to deliver results under pressure.


Maresca's success at Leicester City didn't go unnoticed. Chelsea FC saw in him a manager capable of leading the club to new heights, and the Blues moved quickly to secure his services.


The club agreed to pay Leicester £10 million in compensation to complete the deal. It is understood that Maresca will sign a five-year contract with Chelsea, with an option for an extra year until 2030.


Appointment as Chelsea FC Manager


Enzo Maresca's appointment as Chelsea FC manager is a testament to his growing reputation in the football world. Chelsea, known for their ambition and pursuit of success, saw in Maresca a manager capable of leading the club to new heights. His tactical knowledge, combined with his experience working under Guardiola and his success at Leicester City, positions him well to handle the pressures and expectations of managing a top club like Chelsea.


Maresca inherits a talented squad with a mix of seasoned professionals and promising young talents. His emphasis on tactical flexibility, possession-based football, and player development aligns well with Chelsea's vision for the future. As the club seeks to reclaim domestic and European glory, Maresca's appointment represents a bold step forward.


Challenges and Opportunities


Managing Chelsea comes with its unique set of challenges and opportunities. The Premier League is one of the most competitive leagues in the world, and the expectations at Stamford Bridge are sky-high. Maresca will need to navigate the pressures of delivering immediate results while also building a sustainable long-term vision for the club.


One of Maresca's key tasks will be to integrate Chelsea's array of attacking talents into a cohesive unit. Players such as Raheem Sterling, Enzo Fernández, and Reece James offer immense potential, and Maresca's tactical expertise will be crucial in maximizing their impact. Additionally, his experience in developing young players will be vital in nurturing the next generation of Chelsea stars.


Thoughts from Steve Halls, Founder of NexxtGen Football


Steve Halls, founder of NexxtGen Football, expressed his excitement about Maresca's appointment, saying, "Enzo Maresca brings a fresh and dynamic approach to Chelsea FC. His deep understanding of the game, coupled with his experience under Pep Guardiola, makes him an ideal candidate to lead Chelsea into a new era. Maresca's emphasis on youth development and tactical flexibility aligns perfectly with the club's long-term vision. I believe he will not only bring success to the first team but also play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of Chelsea talent."


Halls added, "Maresca's track record with young players and his ability to adapt to different footballing cultures are invaluable assets. His tenure at Sevilla, combined with his coaching experience at Manchester City and his success at Leicester City, has equipped him with the skills necessary to manage a top club like Chelsea. I am confident that he will bring a new level of excitement and innovation to Stamford Bridge."


final thoughts...


Enzo Maresca's journey from a gifted midfielder to the manager of Chelsea FC is a story of perseverance, learning, and evolution. His playing career, marked by success in Italy, England, and Spain, laid the foundation for his managerial ambitions. Now, as he takes the helm at one of the biggest clubs in world football, Maresca has the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.


With his tactical acumen, leadership skills, and a clear vision for the future, Enzo Maresca is poised to guide Chelsea FC to new heights. As the football world watches closely, one thing is certain: Maresca's appointment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Chelsea and their passionate fanbase. Steve Halls is an FA qualified football coach and football consultant, generally working at grassroots level but hugely passionate about the beautiful game as a whole. Steve works closely with clubs in his local area and offers consultancy services and player representation.




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