Roberto Mancini once said:
“Teach the child to love the game. Performance comes after.”
In today’s results-obsessed football culture — selections, trophies, stats — we often overlook what truly matters in a child’s early football journey: a genuine love for the game.
Kids don’t step onto the pitch for leaderboards.
They play for joy — for the thrill of a successful dribble, a great pass, a shared smile with teammates. That’s where passion begins: in freedom, play, and curiosity.
What happens when pressure replaces joy?
When performance becomes the sole focus:
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Children start playing out of obligation, not passion
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Fear of failure outweighs the desire to try new things
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Enthusiasm turns into anxiety — and smiles disappear
Performance driven by fear is fragile.
Performance born from love is sustainable.
What should we nurture first?
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Free play – Let children experiment, enjoy, and make mistakes without judgment
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A positive environment – Build a space where they feel supported, not constantly evaluated
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Patience – Every child grows at their own pace; don’t force performance — support natural development
A mindset for coaches and parents
Great players didn’t fall in love with football because someone demanded performance.
They did because someone showed them how beautiful the game can be.
Love for the game is the root from which performance, ambition, and character grow.
Want to build passion-driven players?
At enjoycoach.eu, you’ll find coaching resources that prioritize the child’s joy and development — books, training exercises, and guides that help you form not just better players, but people who truly love football.
Inspire joy.
Coach with care.
Grow players who play with heart.
