The Evolution of Positional Play in Modern Football with Bernat Mosquera
- Gary Curneen
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
In this week’s Modern Soccer Coach Podcast, I sat down again with Bernat Mosquera to discuss something that many coaches are wrestling with right now: what is actually happening to positional play in the modern game? For years, the conversation at elite level has centered around structure, game models, and clearly defined positional roles. There is obvious value in that clarity. Structure gives players reference points, and reference points build confidence. But football does not stand still, and one of the most powerful ideas Bernat shared in this conversation was simple but significant: it’s not about playing the game model, it’s about playing what is happening.
That distinction changes everything. As defensive systems have evolved, particularly with the rise of aggressive man-marking and high pressing, the traditional spaces that coaches used to target are no longer appearing in the same way. When defenders reference opponents instead of teammates, the “pockets” shift. The distances change. The moments of advantage look different. As a result, players are being asked to interpret more fluid, less predictable situations. The game is demanding quicker recognition and faster exploitation of space.
This episode is supported by Zone 14 Coaching, a company built by coaches for coaches. One of the recurring themes in this conversation is intentional development. Players do not improve by accident, and neither do coaches. Growth requires reflection. Zone 14 Coaching’s Next Gen Journals for coaches and players are designed around that principle — helping coaches plan with purpose, reflect with clarity, and track progress throughout the season. Grounded in intentional coaching and supported by neuroscience that shows players learn faster when they reflect on what they are doing, their journals provide a practical framework for building accountability and learning habits within your environment. You can visit Zone14Coaching.com and use the code ModernSoccer5 for $5 off your order. If you are equipping a full staff or club, you can also reach out to them directly about team packages.
You can watch the full interview below. Please 'like' and subscribe if you enjoy it!
