#23: U17 World Champions – Talent Development, Tutto Bene?
Welcome, football friends, to a new edition of "So schaut's aus"! This time, we take a look at the success of our U17 national team, who secured the World Championship title. But caution is warranted, because standing still means falling behind, especially in the field of talent development. Let's examine together which steps are necessary to keep us at the top.
A look back shows that complacency has often caught up with us whenever we thought everything was perfect. But the U17 World Championship title must not be understood as a crowning achievement, but as an incentive for change. The structures within the football association need to become more agile, allow for innovation, and boldly pursue new paths. Only in this way can we ensure that necessary changes don't keep us waiting.
In children's football, we have already taken important steps by driving forward a realignment. This shows that change is possible, but it needs to come faster. One key insight here is that our structures inhibit innovation. The U17 and U19 Bundesligas likewise need to be reformed, so that coaches are not judged solely on the league table.
Beyond realigning the competitions, we also need to make use of the scientific findings on talent development. Personal development, preparing for a career path alongside football, and acquiring skills through other sports must not be neglected.
Another important point is trust in our talents. If we clear every obstacle out of their way, we prevent them from taking on responsibility. Independence and personal responsibility are essential for the development of young players.
A neglected area in Germany concerns the cooperation between football performance centers (NLZ) and schools. Here, those responsible should work together more closely to offer young athletes more support. This topic will be examined in more detail in its own dedicated post.
In closing, it should be emphasized that the U17 team's success underscores the importance of team spirit and collective unity. Markus Weise's talk, "Coach, Can You Also Be a Coach?", offers interesting insights on this.
Finally, I appeal to the officials of the Bundesliga clubs: why do young players in other countries get more playing time in the top leagues? This question should give us all pause for thought. Is it a cultural problem, or are there structural obstacles?
I look forward to taking up another topic in talent development with you next week under my column "So schaut's aus" ("That's How It Looks"). Until then! Stay healthy, and always a good match!