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NexxtGen Football Proud to Support Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2025



At NexxtGen Football, we’re passionate about more than just developing players and shaping future stars – we believe in using the power of football to make a genuine difference in the world. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to support this year’s Soccer Aid for UNICEF, taking place on Sunday 15 June at the iconic Old Trafford Stadium.


This unique and unmissable charity match brings together global legends, celebrities, and sporting icons in a star-studded showdown that raises vital funds for children across the globe. With names like Wayne Rooney, Jill Scott, Sir Mo Farah, Tyson Fury, Martin Compston, Nadia Nadim, and even Louis Tomlinson confirmed – it’s shaping up to be the biggest Soccer Aid yet.


The Soccer Aid World XI will be led by none other than Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel, who joins the coaching staff this year to add yet another legendary presence to the touchline.


⚽ Football with Purpose


Soccer Aid for UNICEF isn’t just about entertainment – it’s about protecting childhood. This year’s campaign focuses on the importance of life-saving vaccinations for children in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Millions of children still lack access to basic healthcare and are at risk from preventable diseases like measles and polio.


UNICEF is working on the ground, delivering vaccines, supporting families, and making sure children get the care they deserve. As UNICEF UK Ambassador Sanjeev Bhaskar said after visiting clinics in Malawi:

“These children should have every chance at a healthy life… seeing first-hand how UNICEF is protecting play for every child by supporting them to grow up healthy is inspiring.”

🎟 Tickets Are Selling Fast


With some ticket categories already sold out, now’s the time to secure your seat and be part of something special. Experience the joy, emotion, and magic of Soccer Aid – while helping make a real difference to children’s lives around the world.



Together, we can protect play, promote health, and use the game we love to give children the futures they deserve.





Steve Halls - Founder of NexxtGen Football | FA & UEFA Qualified Coach | Grassroots Champion


💬 From the Touchline – "More Than Just the Manager"



By Steve Halls | NexxtGen Football Founder & Spurs Supporter


As someone who’s lived and breathed Tottenham Hotspur for as long as I can remember, it’s not easy to admit — but right now, we feel lost. Completely lost.


I’ve supported this club through the highs and the painful lows, but what we’re watching unfold right now isn’t just a dip in form — it’s a complete lack of identity, hunger, and cohesion. And while the manager, Ange Postecoglou, rightly shoulders some of the blame, it goes much deeper than that.


💢 Where’s the Fight?


Let’s be real: our Premier League season is done. Top four? Gone. Pride? In question. And yet, you’d expect a team like Tottenham to still turn up and show some fight — even when there’s not much left to play for. But instead, we’re watching players stroll through games. Where’s the grit? Where’s the response?


On the pitch, we look rudderless. Off the pitch, there’s an eerie silence. It's as if the lights are still on at Hotspur Way, but no one’s home. And for a club of our size, that’s not just frustrating — it’s unacceptable.


⚠️ Have the Players Stopped Playing for Ange?


It’s a valid question now. Just months ago, Ange was being hailed as the answer — bold, charismatic, and committed to attacking football. And to be fair, his start was excellent. We all bought in. The fans sang his name. The atmosphere was electric.


But football is a results business, and it feels like the honeymoon is well and truly over. The players don’t seem to be responding. The intensity, the structure, even the belief — it’s all faded. Has the message gone stale already? Or has the squad simply downed tools?


If we fail to get past Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday night in Europe, you’d have to think Ange’s future will be under serious scrutiny. Whether that’s fair or not is up for debate, but the reality is that this fanbase is growing tired. Fast.


🧱 This Squad Is Not Good Enough


Let’s not sugarcoat it — the quality of our squad is nowhere near the level we aspire to be. We’re relying too heavily on individuals rather than a cohesive unit. Too many signings haven’t worked. Too many players have gone missing when it matters most.


We’ve failed to replace key leaders. Our midfield lacks bite. Our defence is brittle. And as much as I want to back every single player who pulls on the lilywhite shirt, the truth is many of them aren’t up to the standard this club demands.


💭 What’s Next?


The Europa Conference League tie against Frankfurt has become more than just a European night — it’s now symbolic. Progress, and Ange might just cling onto something to build upon. Crash out, and the questions get louder. The pressure mounts. And the trust starts to unravel.

But again — this isn’t just about the manager. This is about recruitment. It’s about leadership. It’s about having a vision. A philosophy. A club identity that goes deeper than just a press conference or a passing quote.


The fans deserve more. The badge deserves more. And above all, Tottenham Hotspur deserves more.


Come on you Spurs. Prove us wrong.


—Steve Halls is an FA qualified football coach, player representative, and founder of NexxtGen Football. A lifelong Spurs fan, Steve also works closely with local clubs in Hertfordshire to develop young footballers and grassroots coaches alike.


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📣 From the Touchline – Grassroots Football Update | NexxtGen Football



As we approach the business end of the 2024/25 season, there are several important updates shaping the grassroots football landscape — from new FA rule changes to evolving matchday standards designed to support players, coaches, referees, and families across the country.


🔁 New Rule Changes to Know


🟥 Sin Bins Extended to More Age Groups


The FA is widening the use of temporary dismissals (sin bins) for dissent. Previously used primarily at U13 and above, these 8-minute dismissals are now being introduced into more youth leagues to encourage better discipline and improve respect for match officials.


👟 Rolling Substitution Clarification


Substitution rules have been clarified to ensure smoother matchday management. Players can re-enter the game after being substituted in the same half, but all changes must be made at the halfway line with referee consent. Coaches should keep players informed on this.


🗣️ Respect Barriers & Spectator Conduct


There is now a greater push for strict adherence to Respect Barriers. Many leagues are also trialling silent sidelines at younger age groups to help players develop their decision-making without too much pressure from the touchline.


⚖️ Flexible Age Group Trials


Select leagues are trialling schemes allowing players to temporarily play down a year if they’re physically underdeveloped or new to football. These initiatives are aimed at encouraging development and confidence — particularly for late bloomers.


🌱 Supporting Grassroots Growth Through NexxtGen Football


At NexxtGen Football, we're committed to helping players, coaches, and parents understand and adapt to these changes. Our mission has always been to deliver expert guidance and foster a positive, professional, and structured environment for youth footballers to thrive.


We continue to work with leading grassroots clubs, academies, and leagues to ensure our players stay ahead of the curve and benefit from a safe, educational, and empowering football experience.


💡 What This Means for Young Players at NexxtGen Football


✅ Coaches will continue to deliver up-to-date, compliant sessions

✅ Players will be guided through the latest rule changes

✅ Parents can expect a better, more positive matchday culture

✅ The focus remains on development, discipline, and enjoyment


💬 If you’re a coach, player or parent working with NexxtGen Football, or you're just looking to learn more — stay engaged, ask questions, and let's keep raising standards together. The future of grassroots football is bright, and we’re proud to be helping shape it.


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