Finding further information to support the fact that we play football with our brain first, another find from the YouTube library.

Berlin, October 2015.

Sean Dyche on managing egos & why basic manners mean everything | High Performance Podcast

The article sparked widespread interest, prompting me to meet the man who has revolutionized the way we think about coaching.

“His drills start off simply but become progressively more complex, challenging players’ focus and keeping their concentration sharp.”

This process of gradual complication is something I’ve always considered central to effective coaching design. When I first began coaching, we used to refer to it simply as “ABC”—the idea that you can’t move on to “C” without mastering “A” and “B.” Once you’ve worked through “A” to “Z,” you can start forming “words” and “sentences,” or in this case, more advanced drills, strategies or small sided games.

The concept is straightforward and logical: as soon as a drill becomes easy, Michel ensures it’s made more challenging, so players need to think and adapt. He achieves this by incorporating the use of both feet, encouraging players to turn in different directions, and even introducing varied football sizes to enhance sensory perception.  It’s like a workout for your brain, disguised as a football drill.

“Sometimes players train barefoot to heighten their sensory awareness. Other times, they engage in simple math games while doing physical conditioning work.”

Bruyninckx also emphasizes teamwork over individualism, and discourages aggression—players don’t wear shin pads, and tackling is considered a last resort for regaining possession.

Recently, he was appointed Academy Director at Standard Liège, opting for this role over interest from Real Madrid to stay closer to his family.

To better understand Michel Bruyninckx’s innovative methods, I encourage you to watch this presentation by him:

A Meeting of Minds

Back in the summer of 2011, I had the privilege of visiting the Standard Liege Academy, where I engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with Michel about his philosophies, techniques, and concepts. One of the key aspects we explored was the comprehensive evaluation process that each player undergoes to assess their athletic performance.

Bruyninckx referenced a book detailing over 200 different evaluations, ranging from standing jumps to lung capacity measurements. While it’s impractical for every young athlete in the Total Soccer Schools system to undergo all these evaluations, implementing a core selection could provide significant benefits.

For instance, Michel shared a remarkable case of a predominantly right-footed player whose posture revealed a muscular imbalance. Through targeted training, this player became proficient with both feet, making it nearly impossible for observers to determine his dominant side. The implications are profound: a well-rounded skill set not only enhances adaptability on the pitch but also reduces the risk of injury by addressing physical compensations.

The Academy Experience

The facilities at the Standard Liege Academy were truly remarkable, providing on-campus schooling and accommodation for all players. It was heartwarming to see the respect the young athletes showed Michel, greeting him warmly as they passed. This reflects the positive culture fostered within the Academy, where players from prestigious clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan had come to develop their skills under Bruyninckx’s guidance.

Since then, Michel’s experience has extended beyond Liege; he was instrumental in establishing the Aspire Academy in Doha, where he reshaped training programs to emphasize cognitive development alongside technical skills.

The CogiTraining Method

At the heart of Bruyninckx’s approach is his CogiTraining methodology, which integrates cognitive tasks into football drills. This method is rooted in the understanding that football is fundamentally a game of the brain. By incorporating mental and sensory challenges, players enhance their attention, memory, and reaction times—skills critical for success on the field.

Bruyninckx’s training fosters neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new neural connections, thereby improving both mental and physical agility. His sessions often challenge players to multitask or solve problems while executing football drills, sharpening their decision-making skills under pressure.

Focus on Youth Development

Michel Bruyninckx’s influence is particularly noteworthy in youth development. He advocates for a training philosophy that prioritizes long-term cognitive growth over immediate results. This forward-thinking approach prepares young athletes for the demands of higher levels of play, ensuring they develop not just as players, but as intelligent decision-makers on the field.

Education and Holistic Development

Beyond football, Bruyninckx emphasizes the importance of education. He believes that cultivating cognitive skills both on and off the pitch is essential for holistic player development. This philosophy aligns with modern coaching trends that recognize the value of nurturing well-rounded athletes.

A Lasting Impact

Michel Bruyninckx’s methods are gaining recognition globally, influencing academies and clubs that seek to develop smarter, more aware players. His focus on brain training in sports performance is reshaping how coaches approach player development (hence this website), making him a significant figure in contemporary football coaching.

Reflecting on my visit to the Standard Liège Academy and my conversations with Michel, I left with my theories reinforced, while also feeling inspired and enlightened. His insights transformed my understanding of coaching, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from one of football’s leading innovators.

As football continues to evolve, the integration of cognitive training and neuroscience will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of players. Keep an eye on Bruyninckx’s work; he is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of football development.