Marseille Warm Up & SAQ

Instructions/Setup:

In this warm-up and SAQ drill, players will play a one-touch pass with a partner before turning out quickly to complete a designated SAQ sequence. This sequence may include agility ladders, cones, or hurdles, designed to replicate explosive football-specific movements. The drill blends technical sharpness with physical preparation, activating both cognitive and muscular systems.

The focus is on developing quick reactions, coordination, and readiness for the session ahead. It allows players to warm up dynamically while integrating ball work and reactive speed. The rhythm and timing of each action are key to maintaining high-quality execution throughout the drill.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Reaction to Stimulus: Players must respond instantly to their partner’s pass and initiate the SAQ movement without hesitation. Encourage focus and urgency in every repetition.

• Sharp Passing: Emphasize clean, accurate one-touch passes using the correct technique to maintain fluency and rhythm in the warm-up.

• Explosive Turns: After each pass, players should turn sharply and explode into the SAQ phase, reinforcing match-like acceleration and deceleration.

• Consistent Movement Quality: Focus on keeping footwork clean and body positioning balanced throughout the SAQ sequence. Precision and effort matter more than speed alone.

Progression 1: Add Directional Cue from Coach:

After the pass, the coach calls out “left” or “right,” forcing players to react and turn in that direction before starting the SAQ. This adds unpredictability and simulates match-like reaction demands.

Focus: Sharpens decision-making and improves response time under external cues, simulating in-game reaction scenarios.

Progression 2: Include a Second Touch Rebound Pass:

After completing the SAQ run, players receive a second ball from their partner and must play a controlled return pass before resetting.

Focus: Reinforces technical quality under fatigue and promotes continuity in movement and ball control.