Train like a champion: World Cup skills young players can master today
A World Cup year is the perfect time for young players to be inspired by the very best of football. This summer, we will witness the world’s top players performing on the biggest stage in the game.
But those magical moments don’t just happen overnight. They are the culmination of thousands of hours training, practising, making mistakes, and improving step by step. For those young players starting out on their journey to the top, they can be developing those same skills right now.
Here are five key skills, brought to life by Chelsea FC first-team role models, that young footballers can begin working on today.
Skill 1: First touch under pressure
Chelsea FC role model: Cole Palmer
Image Credit Chelsea FC
Once players reach the World Cup, they rarely have the luxury of much time or space to make decisions. The ball arrives fast, defenders are close, and quick, decisive action is needed.
Cole Palmer is an excellent example of how a strong first touch can make the game look easy. Even in tight spaces and big moments, he stays calm and uses his first touch to move away from pressure and prepare his next action.
What young players can learn
A great first touch helps you:
Stay relaxed on the ball
Keep possession under pressure
Give yourself more time to decide what to do next
Simple practice ideas players can use at home:
Pass against a wall or with a partner
Control the ball using different surfaces (inside foot, outside foot, sole)
Take your first touch away from an “imaginary defender”
At Nike Football Camps, players practice first touch in realistic, game-like situations that build confidence and composure under pressure.
Skill 2: Quick decision-making
Chelsea FC role model: Enzo Fernández
Image Credit Chelsea FC
One thing that stands out at the World Cup is how quickly the best players think. Enzo Fernández is a perfect example of this in action. He’s constantly scanning the pitch, assessing his options before the ball arrives. That’s why his decisions are so fast - whether he’s passing, switching play, or keeping possession - he’s a strategic thinker who’s always a step ahead.
What young players can learn
Football is just as much about strategy and planning as it is about your skills with a ball. With exposure to game scenarios and repetition, young players can learn to think faster and play smarter.
Quick thinking helps you:
Play with confidence
Keep the game moving
Help your team stay organised
Simple practice ideas players can use at home:
Play small-sided games (2v2 or 3v3)
Limit touches to encourage faster decisions
After a play, ask yourself: “What was my best option? What can I learn for next time?”
On camp, Chelsea FC coaches use fast-paced, fun games to help players improve awareness and decision-making - just like the pros.
Skill 3: Movement off the ball
Chelsea FC role model: Nicolas Jackson
Some of the most important work in football happens without the ball. At the World Cup, smart movement can open up defences and create chances. Nicolas Jackson’s movement is a great example. His runs stretch defenders, create space, and give teammates more options - even when he’s not touching the ball.
What young players can learn
You don’t need the ball to help your teammates. Smart movement influences the game and makes everyone perform better.
Good off-the-ball movement helps you:
Get into better positions
Support teammates
Create space for others
Simple practice ideas players can use at home:
After passing, move into space straight away
Practice checking away from defenders before receiving the ball
Focus on timing your runs, not just running fast
At Nike Football Camps, coaches help players understand positioning, awareness, and teamwork through guided play.
Skill 4: Confident passing and teamwork
Chelsea FC role model: Reece James
World Cup success depends on teamwork - and confident passing is at the heart of it. Reece James shows this every time he plays. As a leader on the pitch, he connects defence and attack, communicates clearly, and supports his teammates.
What young players can learn
Good passing isn’t just about technique - it’s about trust and communication.
Strong teamwork helps teams:
Stay connected
Build confidence
Play with purpose and harmony
Simple practice ideas players can use at home:
Short passing drills focused on accuracy
Call for the ball and communicate with teammates
Pass and move - don’t stand still after playing the ball
The football coaching on camp places a strong emphasis on teamwork, respect, and positive communication - key values of Chelsea FC.
Skill 5: Mental strength and confidence
Chelsea FC role model: Thiago Silva
The World Cup brings huge pressure - and mental toughness is just as important as physical ability. Throughout his Chelsea career, Thiago Silva showed composure, focus, and leadership. Even in the toughest moments, he stayed positive, learned from mistakes, and led by example.
What young players can learn
Mistakes are part of football. Use setbacks as learning opportunities and move on – you’ll become a stronger player in the long run.
Mental resilience helps you:
Stay confident
Learn faster
Keep improving
Simple practice ideas players can use at home:
Set small personal goals for each session and take time afterwards to reflect on whether these have been achieved and what could be improved for next time
Try again after mistakes
Celebrate effort and progress, not just success
Nike Football Camps provide a supportive environment where players feel confident to try new skills, make mistakes, and grow.
Inspiring the next generation of World Cup stars
The World Cup can spark big dreams - but real progress happens on the training pitch. Every great player started by learning the basics, building confidence, and enjoying the game. With the right guidance, encouragement, and mindset, young footballers can begin their own journey to the top.
At Nike Football Camps with Chelsea FC, we aim to instil in every young player the skills, confidence, and passion for the game that defines Chelsea FC.