The Football Association (FA) has announced that the changes are reaching youth football in England, which will be implemented from the 2026/27 season. These changes aim to improve the experiences of young players, the promotion of both enjoyment and skills development.
There are many rumors about what the detail could mean, including 3v3 or 4v4 that are brought by children under 7 years and children under 8 years, and 11-A-SIDE do not start up to less than 15 years. This is what they are so far about the future of the absent base …
** Update – New announcement of FA February 2025: Future Fit – FA in England finally confirms that all rumors are true! **
Why the change is approaching
Around the last two years, the FA has made broad consultations with the interested parties, including the FAs of County, Clubs, Leagues and Parents. When examining the best practices of more than 40 European nations and associating with the University of Liverpool John Moores, FA has acquired valuable information about the benefits of the evolution of youth soccer formats.
James Kendall, FA football development director, emphasized that attention focuses on Evolution, no revolution:
“By introducing a new entrance format for young players and adjusting the formats of age groups, our goal is to ensure that youth football in England remains a pleasant, development and inclusive experience for all.”
Key ambitions for base football
The general objectives of the FA include:
- Creating a game to all children love: Promote the participation of a lifetime making football pleasant and accessible.
- Maximize the activity and skill development: More touches of the ball, increased launch time and concealment formats for all young players.
- Guarantee security and inclusion: Offer a cozy atmosphere where each child feels supported.
Planned updates for 2026/27
1. New entry level formats for younger players
Younger age groups will benefit from:
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- More time in the ball.
- Most varied soccer experiences.
- More launch time to develop technical and physical skills.
2. Settings to existing age group formats
The FA will refine the game formats to better adapt to the development needs of each age group.
Backed by research and evidence
FA decisions are informed by a study of two years or around 400 base games (U6-U14) and ideas of interested parties. The key findings highlighted the positive impacts of the increase in ball touches and the variety of games in the development of young players.
When comparing the youth soccer structures throughout Europe, the FA has identified innovative approaches to implement in England, ensuring that its football remains world -class.
Next steps
The FA will continue to work closely with the basic community to guarantee an implementation without problems. This is what is planned:
- Early 2025: Detailed updates shared with interested parties.
- Spring 2025: National reports for coaches, clubs and parents to explain the changes.
- 18 months transition: Orientation and support will be to help everyone adapt to new formats.
That this means for you
- For parents: These changes are designed to make football more attractive and rewarding for your child, focusing on fun and development.
- For coaches: The updates are to help you promote the technical and physical skills of the most effective players.
What do you think?
Should England follow the example of FA of Wales of the Scottish FA in the implementation of smaller sides games such as 4V4 without the goalkeeper to younger age groups with smaller goals? Should the introduction of football from 11 next to the elderly?
What do you think should be changed? Or should everything just continue as it is?
