Introduction

Hey there, young football talents! Have you been wondering, “I am an attacking midfield player. What skills do I need to be scouted?” If that’s you, then you’re in the right place. As an attacking midfielder, your role on the pitch is crucial. Your duties range from dictating play, creating goal-scoring opportunities, to even slotting the ball into the net yourself. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essential skills that professional football scouts look for in an attacking midfielder. So, let’s get started!

1. Ball Control and Dribbling Skills

One of the first things a scout will look for in an attacking midfielder is exceptional ball control and dribbling. The ability to navigate through tight spaces, evade defenders, and keep possession under pressure are key attributes. By honing your dribbling skills and improving your ball control, you can demonstrate your ability to outmaneuver the opposition, which is a key aspect for an attacking midfielder.

2. Vision and Decision-Making

As an attacking midfielder, your vision and decision-making skills need to be top-notch. Scouts will want to see that you can read the game well, predict movements, and make precise passes to split defenses. Quick and accurate decision-making not only helps in maintaining possession but also in creating unexpected and potentially game-changing plays.

3. Passing and Creativity

Creativity is an integral part of an attacking midfielder’s skill set. Scouts will assess your ability to make killer passes and create scoring opportunities. Working on both your short and long-range passing, and your ability to execute through balls, crosses, and chip passes can significantly enhance your chances of getting scouted.

4. Scoring Goals

Don’t forget, an attacking midfielder should also be a scoring threat. Perfecting your shooting skills from outside the box, your ability to make late runs into the box, and finishing off plays are attributes that scouts love to see. The more versatile you are in front of the goal, the better your chances are of standing out.

5. Tactical Awareness

Tactical understanding is crucial. Scouts seek players who understand their responsibilities within the team’s strategy. Understanding when to press, when to drop, and the spaces you should occupy on the pitch will make you a valuable asset to any team.

6. Stamina and Physical Fitness

Lastly, remember, football is a physically demanding sport. Scouts will assess your fitness levels, including your stamina and physicality. As an attacking midfielder, you’re expected to contribute both offensively and defensively, which requires high levels of fitness.

Conclusion

Mastering these skills as an attacking midfielder can significantly increase your chances of catching the eye of a professional football scout. However, remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Don’t be disheartened if progress seems slow; it takes time, patience, and determination to refine these skills. Keep practicing, stay motivated, and you’ll soon see improvements in your game.

Remember to share this blog with your fellow midfielders and subscribe to our newsletter for more tips and guidance on your football journey.

For more tips on getting scouted as a grassroots football player, read our article: The Key Skills and Attributes Young Grassroots Football Players Need to Catch a Professional Scout’s Eye