Barcelona Developing Build Up

Instructions/Setup:

In this build-up drill, teams play 4v4 centrally within a rectangular grid. Four bounce players are positioned in the four corners of the grid, each within their own square. The team in possession aims to progress the ball from one corner to the next, simulating build-up play and replicating principles of quick ball circulation and line breaking passes or dribbles.

The team in possession always enjoys an overload, playing 8v4, with the four bounce players acting as outlets to help maintain possession and switch the play across the grid. The focus is on fluid ball movement and creating space to transition the ball efficiently from one side to the other.

Coaching Notes:

• Bounce Player Use: Encourage players to use the bounce players to change the angle of attack and unbalance the defending team. These players should always be available for a quick pass and act as safe outlets.

• Tempo of Play: Emphasize quick, clean passing to move the ball across the grid efficiently. The aim is to stretch the defense and quickly exploit the spaces created by overloads.

• Spacing and Positioning: Players in possession should maintain good width and depth to stretch the defending team and create passing lanes for the bounce players.

• Awareness and Communication: The team in possession must communicate well to quickly transition the ball across the grid and recognize when to switch the play to unbalance the defenders.

• Defensive Shape: The defending team should focus on staying compact and cutting off passing lanes to the bounce players while pressing quickly once possession is lost.

Progression 1: Limit Touches for the Team in Possession:

Limit the number of touches each player can take (e.g., 2 touches per player) to force faster ball circulation and encourage quicker decision-making.

Focus: Enhances passing speed, movement off the ball, and quick decision-making under pressure.