Nick Levett and the Power of Small‑Sided Game Formats (5v5/9v9) in Youth Development

An innovative vision for youth football

Nick Levett, a respected thinker and educator within the national football organisation of England, has devoted the past two decades to the development of youth and mini‑football. In his role as National Development Manager Youth & Mini‑Soccer he has a clear mission: to let young players grow in an environment where they get plenty of contact with the ball, develop their technical skills and, above all, enjoy the game. His approach is not just a trend, but a considered response to the traditional, often overly physical, training methods that give young children little space to showcase their talents.

The core of Levett’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: the game format must match the age and physical development of the children. By adapting the pitch size, the number of players and the rules to the age group, an environment is created in which every player touches the ball more often, has to make decisions faster and stays more involved in the flow of play. This approach contributes to a positive learning experience and lays a solid foundation for the later transition to larger formats.

Small‑sided game formats: 5v5 and 9v9 explained

The two main formats that Levett has promoted are 5‑against‑5 and 9‑against‑9. In a 5v5 match each team fields four outfield players plus a goalkeeper on a reduced‑size pitch. This set‑up is usually applied at the youngest ages, where the focus is on individual ball handling and quick, short passing. Because there are fewer players on the field, each child gets more opportunities to receive the ball, dribble and shoot. This not only increases the number of technical actions per training session, but also boosts the players’ confidence.

The 9v9 format forms the bridge between the ultra‑small‑sided version and the full 11‑against‑11 game. With eight outfield players per team a slightly larger space is created, allowing players to learn to find more space, anticipate their positioning and practise cooperation with more teammates. The larger number of players also offers an early introduction to the tactical principles of a full side, without the complexity that a full 22‑player field brings.

Both formats share a common goal: more ball contacts per player per minute. In a traditional 11v11 training a child can sometimes wait for hours before getting a chance to play the ball. In a 5v5 situation that waiting time is almost nil, accelerating technical development. Moreover, the reduced playing area contributes to a more intense game, keeping the physical load in balance with the children’s age and growth stage.

The place of small‑sided formats within the English development structure

England has a layered development philosophy known as “England DNA”. This approach emphasizes possession, game‑based training and a clear progression through various development phases, including the Elite Player Performance Programme (EPPP). The EPPP categorises clubs and runs an audit process that guarantees the quality of youth development. Within this framework, small‑sided formats are an integral part of the development pipeline.

In the early phases, where children are usually between 6 and 10 years old, the emphasis is on fun, basic skills and creating a positive relationship with the ball. 5v5 games fit perfectly here, as they stress individual touches and rapid decision‑making. Once players reach around 11 years of age, off‑side is often introduced. This moment marks an important transition: players begin to learn more about positioning, timing and the use of space.

Around the age of 13 most players make the jump to the full 11‑against‑11 game. The 9v9 formats serve as a bridge at this stage, because they already expose players to the concept of off‑side, wider pitch divisions and more complex tactical tasks, without the full pressure of a 22‑player game. This creates a gradual, age‑appropriate transition that minimises the risk of overwhelm and frustration.

The key terms that recur in this system – “england_dna”, “eppp” and “small_sided” – underline the interconnection of a possession‑oriented playing style, a structured development framework and the use of small‑sided games as a catalyst for technical growth. By combining these elements, a holistic model emerges in which each phase logically builds on the previous one.

A concrete example: a club that follows this model starts with 5v5 training for the U7 and U8 teams, introduces off‑side in the U11 group and then switches to 9v9 matches from U12. By U13 the players are fully familiar with the rules and tactics of the 11‑against‑11 game, allowing a smooth transition.

Practical tips for coaches and parents

1. Choose the right format based on age and physical development. For children under 10, 5v5 is ideal; from 11 onward 9v9 can be a good step. Take into account the length of the pitch and the size of the goals – both should be adapted to the age group.

2. Focus on ball contacts. Design drills where each player must touch the ball at least three times before the exercise ends. For example, a rondo where players pass in a small circle and receive the ball back immediately, or a “keep‑away” with a limited number of players per team.

3. Introduce off‑side gradually. Start with a simple explanation around U11, and use games where off‑side is only penalised in a small portion of the field. This makes the concept tangible without disrupting the flow.

4. Use game‑based exercises. Let children make decisions in a realistic match situation rather than in isolated dribbling or passing drills. A 5v5 mini‑match with a limited number of touches per player forces them to think creatively.

5. Involve parents in the fun aspect. Communicate clearly that the goal is not only results, but primarily development and enjoyment. Invite parents to attend training sessions and explain how the chosen format contributes to more ball contacts and technical growth.

6. Monitor progress. Keep a simple statistic – for example the average number of ball contacts per player per training – and discuss these figures periodically with the players and their parents. This shows concrete improvements and allows timely adjustments.

7. Plan a gradual transition to 11v11. Once players reach U13, organise a few practice matches with full teams, but retain part of the training in a small‑sided format to keep ball contacts high.

Conclusion

Nick Levett’s approach to youth football revolves around one core principle: the playing environment must match the age and development stage of the children. By employing 5v5 and 9v9 formats the emphasis is placed on more ball contacts, technical improvement and fun – elements that are essential for sustainable talent development. These small‑sided formats form a bridge between the early play phase and the full 11‑against‑11 match, and fit seamlessly within the broader English development philosophy known as England DNA and supported by the EPPP system.

For coaches and parents this means they have a clear, step‑by‑step roadmap to guide young players from the first touch to the full match. By choosing the right format, maintaining the focus on ball contacts, introducing off‑side gradually and monitoring progress, they can create an environment where every child gets the chance to grow, learn and, above all, enjoy the game.