15 min
6-18 players
Warm-up

Combinations with a one-touch play circuit and supporting player (U20)

Ideal as a warm-up, this exercise is a great way to get started. Remember to emphasize the importance of verbal communication, as well as visual communication (off-the-ball runs and movements). This drill was used during a session at Liverpool by Jurgen Klopp.

Animation: Combinations with a one-touch play circuit and supporting player
In an area of approximately 25x35m, set up 10 cones to form 2 work areas as shown in the diagram. Then place 12 players on each of the cones, with 2 players at the starting cone with a ball.

The 2 groups will play in parallel and each passing sequence will proceed as follows:
  1. The 1st player A starts with dribbling for a few meters and then makes a short pass to the 2nd player B. A then takes B's place.
  2. B plays a layoff with one touch to the 3rd player C.
  3. C also plays in one-touch to the 4th player D, who will lay it off into B's run.
  4. B then plays to the 5th player E, who will control, dribble for 8-10m, and then make a short pass to the 1st player of the next circuit.
  5. The passing sequence continues in the same way on the other side.

Progression: the exercise is conducted in exactly the same way, but the last player will make a long pass instead of finishing with dribbling and a short pass.

Progression with long pass
Progression with long pass

Categories

U18 U19 U20 Seniors

Sub-themes

Passes Circuit Scanning

Why include a one-touch passing circuit in your U20 sessions?

At the U20 level, players are approaching the demands of senior soccer, where technical mastery must be expressed at high intensity. This one-touch combination exercise with a supporting player is particularly effective for developing fluidity in play and precision in sequences.

The circuit imposes a constant tempo and clean execution. Players must focus on every detail: pass quality, body orientation, and timing of movements. Running the exercise simultaneously in two areas also increases intensity and reduces downtime. Within a U20 training approach, this exercise helps develop:

  1. Technical quality under time pressure
  2. Speed of execution in passing sequences
  3. Collective coordination in movement
  4. Discipline in linking actions

U20: How to optimize technical accuracy and changes of tempo

At this level, the ability to link actions quickly and cleanly becomes essential to make the difference. One-touch play forces U20 players to constantly anticipate and adapt to their teammates’ movements.

The supporting player plays a key role in stabilizing the circuit and providing quick solutions. They ensure continuity while maintaining a high level of precision. Any technical mistake or poor timing immediately breaks the rhythm, reinforcing the demands of the exercise.

The progression with long passing adds an extra dimension. It allows players to work on changes of tempo and the alternation between short and long play, which is essential in modern soccer. Players must adjust their technique and game awareness to remain effective in varied situations.

This exercise fits perfectly into a performance-oriented U20 session, with a clear objective: play fast, play accurately, and maintain high intensity from start to finish.

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