Prepare to Play Pro: The benefits of combining Online with In-Person Training

This article was first published on our main website at www.ianmcclurg.com

Last week we have launched a NEW hybird training model that is designed to help our players successfully compete with academy players at professional clubs in Europe.

Recently, I posted a blob article outlining the typical training hours of academy players at professional clubs in Europe - read more here

In summary, academy players at professional clubs in Europe, typically train 25-30 hours per week, including training, travel, and matches by the time they are 16-18 years of age.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of a typical weekly training load for academy players at professional clubs in Europe:

• Training Load:
• Weekly Time Commitment:
• Training Sessions:
• Age-Specific Training:
• Individual Training:

Top professional clubs in Europe are now hiring specialized individual coaches to provide these academy players with specific and tailored training activities to meet the players individual requirements. Learn More This provides these players with a tremendous advantage over other players - who are not consistently completing individual training on a regular basis each week.

Players who aspire to play professionally should combine online training with in-person training because it enhances their development in several ways:

1. Access to High-Quality Resources

Online platforms provide access to expert coaching, tactical analysis, strength and conditioning programs, and position-specific drills that may not be available locally.

2. Flexibility & Convenience

Online training allows players to work on their skills anytime, anywhere. This is particularly useful for supplementing in-person training when schedules are tight.

3. Tactical Awareness & Game Intelligence

Watching tactical breakdowns, game analysis, and professional match footage online can help players improve their decision-making, positioning, and understanding of different playing styles.

4. Personalized Development

Many online programs offer customized training plans based on a player’s strengths, weaknesses, and position, helping them focus on areas that need improvement.

5. Video Analysis & Feedback

Players can record their training sessions or matches and receive feedback from coaches or analyze their own performance to identify areas for improvement.

6. Mental & Psychological Training

Online resources can provide guidance on mental resilience, visualization, confidence-building, and handling pressure—essential qualities for professional athletes.

7. Strength & Conditioning

Professional-level fitness training programs available online help players improve endurance, speed, agility, and injury prevention, complementing in-person physical training.

8. Networking & Exposure

Online platforms allow players to showcase their skills, connect with scouts, and participate in virtual recruitment programs, increasing their chances of being noticed by clubs.

9. Continuous Learning

Even when recovering from injury or during the offseason, players can stay engaged by learning new techniques, watching game footage, and maintaining fitness with online workouts.

10. Competitive Edge

Players who take advantage of both in-person and online training maximize their development, giving them a well-rounded approach that sets them apart from the competition.

By integrating online and in-person training, aspiring professionals can refine their technical skills, tactical awareness, physical fitness, and mental strength, ensuring they are fully prepared for the demands of professional soccer.

We look forward to helping more players maximize their playing potential by signing up for our NEW hybird training model and you can learn more here