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: