
<p>“What makes a great soccer player?” is a topic that many in the soccer world often wonder. What was it about Diego Maradona and Pele that set them apart from the rest? Like <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/how-much-money-do-professional-soccer-players-make-20231119-WST-470663.html">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> or <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/what-do-the-position-numbers-mean-in-soccer-20231116-WST-470585.html">Lionel Messi</a>, how can I improve my game? Every great soccer player has to have a few certain attributes, but there is no foolproof method.</p>



<p>To be successful on the soccer field, one needs a certain set of abilities and character traits. Athletes need a wide range of skills and qualities to succeed on the field and leave an impression. Becoming a great soccer player requires a multi-faceted approach, including technical skill and mental toughness.</p>



<p>A career in professional soccer is a goal that hundreds of thousands of kids have every day. And although grit and perseverance may get you far, the reality is that most kids won’t measure up. Even fewer kids who start playing soccer at an early age will go on to make a livelihood as professional players, and even fewer will have the chance to represent their nation in major tournaments.</p>



<p>Time and again, the contemporary soccer game evolves. Every kid should grow up knowing what it takes to be a professional athlete, as today’s players need to be quicker, stronger, and more determined than ever before.</p>



<h2>Most important attributes for a great soccer player</h2>



<h5>Physical fitness</h5>



<p>Regular training and coaching may improve a player’s speed and physical strength, however, there’s no denying that genetics play a significant role. The level of competition in soccer is unprecedented, making strength in all areas of the body crucial. To play this sport professionally, you need to have good general cardiovascular fitness, which you may get just by playing the game and exercising consistently.</p>



<p>Modern games place a premium on speed, strength, acceleration, agility, and raw power, all of which a player will innately hone during their formative years. Building one’s technical abilities is of utmost importance while one is young. It’s not until a person reaches a much later age, often beyond the age of fifteen, that they may focus on honing their fitness, speed, and core strength.</p>



<p>A player’s position determines the relative importance of physical characteristics. While creative midfielders and wingers rely heavily on speed and agility, strong, towering, and powerful central defenders are very necessary.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20231210_WST_473626_Mbappe-speed-1200x675.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-473749" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Mbappe-speed-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Mbappe-speed-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Mbappe-speed-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Mbappe-speed.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Kylian Mbappe has shown the value of speed for a great soccer player, as no one on defense can keep up with him.</figcaption></figure>



<h5>Technique</h5>



<p>Many people throughout the world speak soccer, which is frequently called a universal language. All soccer players are shaped from the ground up by honing their technique, which is like learning a new language. To be a world-class soccer player, you need to become an expert in three distinct areas of technique.</p>



<ul><li>Possessing complete command of the ball and being able to direct its movement with one’s feet, legs, chest, and head constitutes ball mastery and control.</li><li>Keeping complete control of the ball when dribbling or sprinting with it entails going in a variety of directions and speeds.</li><li>Form and movement—the art of making the most of your body’s potential in all situations, with or without the ball, by the use of your equilibrium and coordination.</li></ul>



<h5>Tactical Intelligence</h5>



<p>Nowadays, the ability to think tactically is more crucial than ever before. There are a plethora of tactical abilities that a contemporary professional player needs, including marking, space creation, counter-attacking, and team tactics.</p>



<p>Although it is a talent that can be honed with practice, the ability to judge when to pass and when to hold onto the ball is often what distinguishes top-tier club players from those who make it to the pros.</p>



<p>As one would expect from top-tier experts, they have excellent tactical awareness overall. These days, soccer is more about strategy than ever before, so players who can’t handle the pressure won’t have a chance in the pros. Oftentimes, the top soccer player must develop attributes like this innately.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20231210_WST_473626_Iniesta-technique-1200x675.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-473754" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Iniesta-technique-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Iniesta-technique-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Iniesta-technique-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Iniesta-technique.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Barcelona has relied on the technique and mental ability of players like Andres Iniesta to lead the Catalan club to success.</figcaption></figure>



<h5>Balancing teamwork and leadership</h5>



<p>You celebrate victories and suffer defeats as a team in soccer. There have been several instances when a single individual might be cited as the only contributor to a team’s triumph. Just like Diego Maradona and Pele achieved great things for their teams and countries in the past, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are experiencing the same thing today.</p>



<p>But they would all admit that they wouldn’t have achieved their accomplishment without the contributions of their teammates. Players must be able to perform at their highest level while playing on a team since, in general, teams perform better when their members work together in harmony.</p>



<p>Often, it’s the game-changing performance of a single player that elevates the whole squad. The play might be a fantastic tackle, goal, or display of exceptional talent. No need to settle for less than your best; after all, other people tend to pick up on the energy that you put in.</p>



<p>On the other hand, while it’s true that “together we can achieve more” in soccer each player’s efforts matter much, and leadership is a crucial trait for every successful soccer player, particularly for captains. In addition to leading by example on the field, you should be capable of inspiring and motivating your teammates.</p>



<p>A great soccer player develops attributes that make them better communicators. They know how to get their teammates’ attention and keep it brief. Everyone in the team has their own unique way of leading and communicating. Being an excellent teammate does not need being the most outspoken player on the field.</p>



<h5>Mindset</h5>



<p>At the very elite level, soccer can be an extremely stressful situation. Playing soccer at a high level requires a certain level of mental toughness. Being calm and collected under pressure is essential, as is the ability to pick yourself up after falling and keep trying.</p>



<p>As they progress, many gifted athletes quit. No matter how bad things become, the most successful athletes are those who can mentally toughen themselves and keep going until they reach their full potential.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>


Top 5 attributes needed to be a great soccer player

In reality, what are the best attributes a soccer player can acquire? All the best soccer players have one thing in common, right?


<p>The most-watched&nbsp;sport in the world, soccer, is characterized by high-octane action, expert passing, and fierce rivalry. Unfortunately, the thrills of the game are not without their dangers.</p>



<p>The physical demands of soccer include quickness, dexterity, strength, and stamina. There is a tremendous amount of physical strain on the players’ bodies from the continual sprinting, rapid acceleration and deceleration, and rapid changes in direction. As players strive to outdo each other at the highest level, the risk of injury rises due to the intense intensity of the game.</p>



<p>As a sport, soccer naturally involves physical contact, and players often collide with one another. Players sometimes find themselves in circumstances where contact is unavoidable, such as aerial challenges during corner kicks or shoulder-to-shoulder struggles for possession. Injuries such as sprains, strains, fractures, and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-still-wants-temporary-head-injury-substitutions-20230308-WST-422717.html">concussions</a> might intensify as a consequence of these accidents.</p>



<p>Common injuries may also be influenced by factors such as the surface of the field and the weather in soccer. Hazards such as uneven or badly kept fields may make players more likely to slip, trip, and fall, and bad weather can make it harder for them to play at their best. Despite its intended use in injury prevention, artificial grass can provide unique hazards that might exacerbate existing conditions.</p>



<p>Anyone involved in soccer—players, coaches, and fans—would do well to familiarize themselves with the most frequent injuries. That way, they may better manage them, avoid them, and enjoy the game more generally.</p>



<h2>What are the most common soccer injuries?</h2>



<h5>Fractures</h5>



<p>Playing soccer increases the risk of fractures, especially in the lower limbs. Dislocations and shattered bones can happen with the game’s fast pace and physical contact. </p>



<p>Limbs, toes, and even the collarbone are all susceptible to fractures. Players must wear protective gear, such as shin guards, and rules of play should discourage careless tackles that might cause broken bones.</p>



<h5>Sprains and strains</h5>



<p>Sorenesses like sprains and strains are common for soccer players. A sprain is an injury that tears a ligament, whereas a strain is an injury that stretches muscles and tendons. </p>



<p>The risk of these injuries increases in situations when there are quick changes in direction, rapid accelerations, or abrupt stops. The danger of sprains and strains, especially to the ankles and knees, is high, thus players must do flexibility training and warm-up exercises correctly.</p>



<h5>Concussions</h5>



<p>Soccer players are not immune to the heightened awareness of common head injuries, such as concussions, which have spread to other sports in recent years. Accidents that cause concussions include head-on collisions, elbow clashes, and falls. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20231129_WST_473584_Soccer-concussion-1200x675.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-473672" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Soccer-concussion-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Soccer-concussion-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Soccer-concussion-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/Soccer-concussion.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Referees and leagues are taking more notice of concussions based on the severity they can have on a player’s life.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Recognizing the symptoms of a concussion is critical since getting medical help right away is life-threatening. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/concussion-symptoms-3x-higher-in-soccer-players-who-head-ball-20170201-CMS-201725.html">Proper heading technique</a> and wearing protective gear should be top priorities for soccer players to lower the danger of head injuries.</p>



<h5>Muscle Contusions</h5>



<p>The physically demanding nature of soccer makes contusions and bruises all too prevalent. Injuries like strained muscles are outcomes of player collisions, whether with one another or the ball. </p>



<p>Even while contusions are not usually serious, they may nonetheless make a player feel pain and hinder their game. Wearing protective gear and playing by the rules of fair play may reduce the likelihood and impact of muscle contusions.</p>



<h2>Prevalence of lower-body injuries</h2>



<h5>Knee injuries</h5>



<p>The knee is a typical site for soccer-related injuries. This is because, in addition to kicking, soccer calls for lightning-fast stops and changes of direction from players. There is a great deal of rotational stress on the knees and the ligaments that support them during explosive, spontaneous movement. </p>



<p>Knee sprains and tears occur when the tension on a ligament is too great. Four ligaments aid knee stability, and they are:</p>



<ul><li>Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) at the front of the knee</li><li>Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) at the back of the knee</li><li>Medial collateral ligament (MCL) on the inside of the knee</li><li>Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) on the outside of the knee</li></ul>



<h5>Cruciate ligament injury</h5>



<p>Although the pain may be nonexistent in certain cases, a loud “pop” is usually audible when this kind of damage happens. A day after the injury, one might expect swelling, pain, limited mobility, and soreness along the joint line.</p>



<p>The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the knee injury site of choice for soccer players. In comparison to muscles and tendons, ligaments are less able to retract, making them more prone to injury.</p>



<h5>Meniscus injury</h5>



<p>Injuries to the meniscus are another typical soccer ailment. Cushioning the gap between the thigh and shin bones is the meniscus, a C-shaped piece of cartilage. Torn meniscus ligaments are a common and unpleasant consequence of abrupt changes in direction, braking, twisting, or collision.</p>



<h5>Pulled calf</h5>



<p>Pulling on the Achilles tendon causes this injury when one of the lower leg muscles—the soleus or the gastrocnemius—is pulled. Accidental sprinting or leaping is a common culprit.</p>



<h5>Groin pull</h5>



<p>Strains that include overextension of the inner thigh muscles are known as groin pulls. A soccer player could injure their groin while kicking the ball or when their opponent tries to block their kick.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20231129_WST_473584_hamstring-injury-1200x675.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-473676" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/hamstring-injury-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/hamstring-injury-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/hamstring-injury-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/11/hamstring-injury.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Hamstring injuries can have different levels. Some can rule a player out just for a couple of days. Others require surgeries or can end careers prematurely.</figcaption></figure>



<h5>Hamstring injury</h5>



<p>Disruptions to the three posterior thigh muscles, known as hamstrings, may vary from mild aches and pains to full-blown tears. Soccer players are at risk for hamstring injuries due to the sport’s common themes of running, sprinting, and stopping.</p>



<h2>Ankle injuries</h2>



<h5>Ankle sprain</h5>



<p>Injuries to the ligaments that support the ankle joint may lead to a sprain. In soccer, a lateral ankle sprain (on the outside of the ankle) may happen if a player uses the ball-kicking technique with the ball-top foot. </p>



<p>It is possible to injure the inside of the ankle, known as the medial ankle sprain, by turning out the toes while flexing the foot upward.</p>



<h5>Soreness in Achilles tendon</h5>



<p>Ankle discomfort radiating from the back of the foot is a common symptom of Achilles tendinitis, a chronic ailment caused by overuse. This kind of injury may develop over time due to the repeated and abrupt motions that soccer players engage in.</p>



<h5>Rupture of Achilles Tendon</h5>



<p>Ruptures, which may be partial or full tears of the Achilles tendon, sometimes accompanied by an audible popping sound, can happen to a soccer player during rapid, explosive actions like running for the ball or evading an opponent.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>


Most Common Injuries in Soccer: What You Need to Know

Injuries are common in soccer. It's vital for everyone to be knowledgeable about the most prevalent soccer injuries.


<p>The United States’ top-tier professional soccer league is going pretty well at the moment. But are there ways we could improve <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a>?</p>



<p>MLS is approaching its 30th anniversary, which will coincidentally dovetail with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted mostly in the USA. By 2025, there will be 30 teams in the league, closely mimicking America’s other “Big 4” professional sports leagues. Most clubs are playing in purpose-built soccer venues (or drawing crowds that necessitate playing in larger NFL stadiums). And they’ve captured lightning in a bottle for the moment, with the signing of Lionel Messi drawing more eyes than ever to the competition.</p>



<p>However, the league still retains multiple quirks, oddities, and handicaps that hold it back from its true potential. With interest higher than ever thanks to the Messi spotlight, there has never been a better time to lose the training wheels and bring MLS more in line with the world’s elite competitions.</p>



<p>There are some really simple, basic things that could be done to improve Major League Soccer. There’s also a handful of more drastic changes, too. </p>



<h5>1. Real Grass across the board</h5>



<p>Has artificial turf technology gotten better? Sure. But the highest level soccer in the world is played on natural grass. For instance, a plastic pitch at someplace like Camp Nou, Old Trafford, the Allianz Arena, or any top league would be unthinkable. Why should it be <a href="https://www.inquirer.com/soccer/mls-artificial-turf-lionel-messi-world-cup-20230919.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acceptable for players in the United States</a>?</p>



<p>Does weather cause a factor in playing surface choice? Sure. Places like Montréal, New England, Portland, and Seattle can be tricky with grass. But MLS plays mostly during the summer, grass can work.</p>



<p>If installing grass is untenable because of overuse by multiple sports, the solution is simple:</p>



<h5>2. Phase out shared venues</h5>



<p>The debacle of NYCFC playing home games at Yankee Stadium appears to eventually be on its way out, mercifully. But no matter the scenario, playing in a shared venue promotes a “second fiddle” perception of any club. Regardless if ticket demand warrants playing in the bigger stadiums, each of these buildings was <em>primarily</em> constructed for something other than the soccer team. And in some cases, like Chicago and New England, ticket demand certainly does NOT match with the larger capacity venue, which produces terrible visuals of empty seats. </p>



<p>Yeah, it’s a massive investment for these owners to build new venues. But these are billionaires we’re talking about. If they, and MLS, are <em>truly serious</em> about investing in the game and making MLS an elite league, then go all the way. Imagine what it would say about the game in the US if clubs like Seattle and Atlanta built 50,000-seat <em>soccer</em> stadiums?</p>



<h5>3. Lose the wacky roster and salary rules</h5>



<p>MLS was built on the principle that it needed to control spending to avoid the shambolic collapse that befell its predecessor, the NASL in the early 1980s.</p>



<p>But we’re almost 30 years into this venture. MLS has become the longest-lasting and most stable American first-division league ever. There are no fly-by-night ownership groups in the mix. The strange mechanisms put in place to protect the league in earlier days are no longer necessary.</p>



<p>In 2023 MLS did ditch the Allocation Order process. But the Discovery Process, Designated Players, the SuperDraft, Homegrown Players, and TAM/GAM funding pools overly complicate roster building. The annual salary cap for 2023 is a paltry $5.2 million. That’s less than most players on a single elite club overseas earn – but for an entire team.</p>



<p>A salary cap is fine – but it should be substantially increased to allow clubs to spend how they please without needing a bunch of funky special rules to circumvent it. It can and should be so much simpler. </p>



<h5>4. Adopt Goal-Line Technology </h5>



<p>While it’s now <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/what-leagues-have-goal-line-technology-and-which-ones-dont-20230920-WST-457254.html">standard practice in most major soccer leagues</a>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/after-10-years-mls-still-lacks-goal-line-technology-20230901-WST-453488.html">MLS still does not use goal-line technology</a>. </p>



<p>Every team is playing in a modern venue that can accommodate it. There’s no excuse. It’s a no-brainer to up the level of professionalism in the league.</p>



<h5>5. RESTRUCTURE THE MLS CUP PLAYOFFS</h5>



<p>As it stands in 2023, the MLS Cup Playoffs are, frankly, ridiculous. 18 of the 29 teams – nine from each conference – make the postseason tournament. 62% of the entire league.</p>



<p>Parity and giving every team a better chance at glory is one thing. But that many teams getting into the playoffs is just comical. Especially when you consider <em>every</em> MLS team already now plays in two other tournaments during the season – the U.S. Open Cup and Leagues Cup (plus the teams playing in Champions Cup, too).</p>



<p>And the playoffs use two different formats depending on the round. The opening wild card round uses single elimination. Then it’s a 3-game series in round one. Everything after that goes back to single elimination. It’s just unnecessarily complex.</p>



<p>Using playoffs to crown a league champion is engrained in the American sports culture, and that’s okay. It’s one thing that can, and maybe should, be a little different than the rest of the world’s soccer leagues. But let’s pare it down.</p>



<p>Reduce it to the top four (or eight if you must) teams. A quick, single elimination bracket over two or three weeks. Done. This ups the importance of the regular season and shortens the overall campaign. This leads us to…</p>



<h5>6. Stop Playing through international breaks</h5>



<p>MLS still often plays over FIFA windows, when players are called away to national team duty. This happened recently when their new star attraction Messi was not on hand as Inter Miami played Sporting KC, as he was with Argentina. </p>



<p>Reducing the length of the playoffs would give a little more room to avoid the FIFA windows. And we know they’ve promoted the new schedule format that is (mostly) Saturdays, but squeeze in some weekday games if needed to make room.</p>



<p>As the league continues to grow in stature, more and more high-profile internationals will be playing in MLS. Unimportant backwater leagues and lower divisions are the competitions that don’t stop for international breaks. If MLS wants to present itself as a truly elite league, it makes no sense to not completely pause for these windows.</p>



<h5>7. Reduce the number of teams in the top division</h5>



<p>MLS is one of a few leagues in the world that runs significantly afoul of the FIFA recommendation for the maximum size of a top-division league. Just this year, for example, France’s Ligue 1 shrunk to 18 teams by relegating an extra team and promoting one less from 2022/23. </p>



<p>But you can’t just contract teams from the league entirely (unless you happen to be the Miami Fusion, Tampa Bay Mutiny, or Chivas USA – RIP lads). So how can you pare the league roster back… </p>



<h5>8. Embrace promotion and relegation – even if not all the way</h5>



<p>Always a controversial issue, and always balked at by MLS executives as well as some fans and commentators.</p>



<p>But like it or not, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/why-soccer-fans-prefer-promotion-and-relegation-20230206-WST-417655.html">promotion and relegation</a> is the global standard for the club game. Every one of the world’s biggest and most serious leagues uses it. Every nation that’s ever won a World Cup has it. </p>



<p>But even if MLS doesn’t want to link with the rest of the American pyramid, they could still pull it off. They can keep their exclusive ownership club and single-entity model, which keeps franchise values high. But they can add a unique competitive wrinkle that would make them stand out amongst the US sporting landscape (<a href="https://theathletic.com/4747662/2023/08/03/usl-promotion-relegation-vote/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">before USL possibly does it</a>). And they could do it <em>as</em> <em>early as 2025</em> if they really wanted to. How? By basically using it as a scheduling mechanism within the existing league structure.</p>



<h5>Pro/rel – The MLS way:</h5>



<p>Instead of splitting the league into geographical east/west conferences, you split it based on the record on the field. In 2025, there’ll be 30 teams, so you could do 18 teams in “MLS1,” 12 in “MLS2.” To keep up appearances and make everyone feel better about themselves, they could do the old trick of branding the divisions so as to not directly denote the level. Call the top 15 circuit “MLS Premier” or something like that, and the 2nd level just “MLS.” Move to a standard round-robin schedule – 34 games (2x every other team) for MLS1, 33 games (3x every other team) for MLS2. </p>



<p>Everybody still gets the same share of media rights revenues, new teams still pay expansion fees to get in, and all that. The entire league entity still fits under the Division 1 sanctioning level, it just affects who is, and isn’t, is eligible for MLS Cup playoffs in any given year (you could tweak CONCACAF spots and USOC entry tiers as well if desired). The MLS2 teams would instead be fighting for promotion (which could include playoffs for extra drama and higher chances).</p>



<p>When it comes to new teams, this makes it possible to keep expanding (and cashing expansion fee checks) while having a place for those teams to go. Once you fill up MLS2 to the desired number, you could split that again regionally or into a further 3rd tier to make room for ever more clubs. All are nestled within the protective umbrella of MLS’s existing status of 1st division sanctioning and ownership standards.</p>



<p>If an existing USL (or anyone else) club wants to join, they can do so the same way the likes of Portland, Minnesota, Montréal, and so on have in the past.</p>



<p>Increasing the number of spots in the overall league setup also allows for the addition of new teams (or integration of existing non-MLS clubs) into existing league markets. Places like Chicago, the San Francisco Bay area, South and Central Florida, Atlanta, or Dallas-Fort Worth could all foster intense local derbies. Even the mega-markets New York and LA which already have two teams each could theoretically support one or two more clubs in the area. But without creating a way to go far beyond 30 teams, this is unfeasible. </p>



<h4>It’s up to MLS</h4>



<p>The powers that be don’t have to evolve MLS from what it is today if they don’t want to. The league can continue on its current path, continue to make money for investors, and middle along in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-ranked-29th-strongest-league-in-the-world-per-opta-20230815-WST-450215.html">second tier of the global soccer landscape</a>. But with some adjustments, Major League Soccer could eventually actually live up to its name.</p>


8 ways to improve Major League Soccer (MLS)

The United States' top tier soccer league is going pretty well at the moment. But are there ways we could improve Major League Soccer?

8 ways to improve Major League Soccer (MLS) - World Soccer Talk

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<p>UEFA has formed a new committee in an effort to help fine-tune laws and scheduling concerns, and it includes top names like Carlo Ancelotti and Jose Mourinho. In total, the list of names on the board consists of current coaches and former stars from across Europe. Gareth Bale, Paolo Maldini, Zinedine Zidane and Gareth Southgate are just examples of those on the UEFA board. </p>



<p>According to <a href="https://www.uefa.com/returntoplay/news/0280-17d40f26d8d4-88831044eefa-1000--uefa-football-board-to-meet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UEFA</a>, the newly formed Football Board provides  “an institutional yet independent voice of experience and expertise on fundamental football-related topics, including the laws of the game, refereeing, match calendar, elite youth development and player well-being.”</p>



<h5>Handball, VAR concerns to be discussed at assembly</h5>



<p>Many coaches and players complained in recent months about changes within the rule book. The always-confusing handball rule is a particular point of contention for many in the sport. Rule experts tweaked the official wording of the law multiple times in recent years. The implementation of VAR has also caused a stir among many coaches and players, as well as fans.</p>



<p>“UEFA is delighted to see that the very ones who have shaped the game’s history with their talents and philosophy through decades are gathered again around our common goal – to protect the game of football and its essential values,” <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/65347367" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">⚽ A stellar line-up of players, former stars and elite coaches will assemble at UEFA HQ on Monday for the inaugural meeting of the UEFA Football Board.<br><br>Find out who is involved and what will they discuss: ⬇️</p>— UEFA (@UEFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/UEFA/status/1649334447047602181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Ancelotti and Mourinho make first UEFA board visit next week</h2>



<p>The 25-man list of UEFA Football Board members will first meet on Monday, April 24th. This will be the first chance for the coaches and players to voice concerns and give the governing body ideas on how to fix these issues.</p>



<h5>Complete list of UEFA Football Board members</h5>



<ul><li>Eric Abidal —&nbsp;former France defender</li><li>Carlo Ancelotti —&nbsp;Real Madrid manager</li><li>Gareth Bale —&nbsp;former Wales forward</li><li>Rafael Benitez —&nbsp;former Liverpool manager</li><li>Fabio Capello —&nbsp;former England manager</li><li>Petr Cech —&nbsp;former Czech Republic keeper</li><li>Rio Ferdinand —&nbsp;former England defender</li><li>Luis Figo —&nbsp;former Portugal forward</li><li>Robbie Keane —&nbsp;former Ireland striker</li><li>Jurgen Klinsmann —&nbsp;South Korea manager</li><li>Ronald Koeman —&nbsp;Netherlands manager</li><li>Philipp Lahm —&nbsp;former Germany defender</li><li>Henrik Larsson —&nbsp;former Sweden striker</li><li>Michael Laudrup —&nbsp;former Denmark attacking midfielder</li><li>Paolo Maldini —&nbsp;former Italy defender</li><li>Roberto Martinez —&nbsp;Portugal manager</li><li>Juan Mata —&nbsp;Galatasaray midfielder</li><li>Predrag Mijatovic —&nbsp;former Montenegro forward</li><li>Jose Mourinho —&nbsp;Roma manager</li><li>Gareth Southgate —&nbsp;England manager</li><li>Patrick Vieira —&nbsp;former France midfielder</li><li>Rudi Voller —&nbsp;former Germany striker</li><li>Javier Zanetti —&nbsp;former Argentina defender</li><li>Zinedine Zidane —&nbsp;former Real Madrid manager</li></ul>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / PA Images</em></p>


UEFA has formed a new committee of coaches and former players to help with current laws in place, with Ancelotti and Mourinho among legends.

Ancelotti, Mourinho join newly formed UEFA board


<p>Newly re-elected UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin spoke publicly on a plethora of topics after his election on Wednesday. This included the failed European Super League and other nations being jealous of the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Premier League</a>. However, the UEFA boss also hinted at changes to the handball rule.</p>



<h5>Ceferin voices concerns over recent rule tweaks</h5>



<p>Speaking with Slovenian newspaper <em>Ekipe SN</em>, Ceferin admitted that he doesn’t fully grasp the current handball rules. </p>



<p>“How do you make yourself smaller if you fall to the ground or if you jump in the air,” <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2023/04/05/uefa-president-aleksander-ceferin-premier-league-jealous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asked</a> Ceferin. “The hands are where they are, you can’t always press them to the body. I absolutely do not understand the current handball rules and something must be done in this area.”</p>



<p>The boss of Europe’s governing body of the sport also announced the formation of a new committee to tackle the issue. </p>



<p>“At the end of April, we will form a special group, which will be led by Zvonimir Boban, and we want to have all the greatest coaches and former football players in it,” Ceferin continued. “One of the priority topics will be handball. The law says that [it is handball] if the player has made himself bigger, but what should he do?”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Chelsea have the ball in the back of the net again BUT this time it&apos;s disallowed due to a handball.<br><br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/peacock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@peacock</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MyPLMorning?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MyPLMorning</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHELIV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHELIV</a> <a href="https://t.co/0BVubSIhjU">pic.twitter.com/0BVubSIhjU</a></p>— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSportsSoccer/status/1643346246776528897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>UEFA boss called Infantino last week about handball law</h2>



<p>The International Football Association Board (IFAB) handles current rules and interpretations. However, Ceferin will create the new group to help grasp a better understanding on the handball laws. Ceferin even admitted to contacting FIFA president Gianni Infantino about possible changes or clarifications on the rule. He also <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/fifa-asked-to-review-controversial-handball-rule-uefa-confirm-20201105-CMS-315964.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously</a> spoke to the FIFA boss about the issue in 2020.</p>



<p>“I also spoke with Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, last week about the fact that we all need to do something about this together,” Ceferin <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2023/04/05/uefa-president-aleksander-ceferin-premier-league-jealous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">added</a>. “Nothing is clear to anyone anymore, which is very bad for football, because football by definition is very understandable and very clear.”</p>



<p>Tweaks to the handball rule in recent years has left many fans confused and outraged. A more universally defined law on the infraction would most likely be welcomed by many in the sport.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Pro Sports Images</em></p>


UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has announced plans to form a new group to help tackle the confusing handball law

UEFA wants handball law changed to reduce confusion - World Soccer Talk

UEFA wants handball law changed to reduce confusion

<p></p><div><figure class="image"></figure></div>In the least shocking news of the week, Chelsea’s John Obi Mikel picked up yet another red card for a shockingly bad tackle. This time it was a sliding tackle and though the challenge was one-footed, Mikel came in with his studs up (and nowhere near the ball) on Everton’s Phil Neville.<p></p>
<p>This was the fourth red card Mikel has received in about a season and a half of being a Chelsea player. Of course Avram Grant took his player’s side “I will not speak of the red card,” Grant spoke. “But if it was a red card, many players who were given yellow cards should have had a red card too. I will not speak about it. I don’t say that I have nothing to say about it. I have a lot of things to say about it.”</p>
<p>Grant should not be defending a player with a history of poor tackles. Instead, he should be working with him on the training ground or sending him down to the reserves for further work. I hate to single him out as he is far from being the only player to be guilty of these dangerous tackles but timing is everything in life, and in tackling too.</p>
<p>There is no question that Mikel is a phenomenal athlete and is a fine passer of the ball but his other skills are questionable. He does not seem to have a grasp of the fundamentals of tackling and marking (e.g. his recent hacking of Peter Crouch) or he has been trained using videos from the 70s when this sort of thing was tolerated and encouraged. In this era, where the players are supposed to be protected from dangerous tackles, he could be viewed as a liability to his team.</p>
<p>Steve Sidwell, brought on soon after Mikel’s dismissal, also deserves some scorn for what the Independent described as “an attempt at arthroscopic surgery” on Lee Carsley’s knee.</p>
<p>What do you think? Are the rules strict enough? Too harsh? To me want to see more of these bone-crunching tackles?</p>


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