U12‑U13 football in Germany: 9‑vs‑9 format and the transition to full 11‑vs‑11
The transition from the very first playing moments to a more mature style of play is a crucial phase in the development of young footballers. In Germany this step for the D‑Juniors (U12‑U13) is characterised by a 9‑against‑9 format, a full offside rule and a philosophy that revolves around maximum ball contact, fun and intensive 1‑against‑1 situations. In this article we dive deeper into the specific characteristics of this game format, the underlying training philosophy and what it means for both children and their coaches.
The basics of the 9‑against‑9 game format for D‑Juniors
For the age group U12‑U13, locally referred to as D‑Juniors, German youth football uses a 9‑against‑9 format. This setup means each team has nine outfield players, making the playing space relatively larger than in smaller formats, but still limited enough to keep the players close together. The ball size used in this category is not explicitly stated, but falls within the normal range for this age group, allowing the players to dribble and pass comfortably.
The match is played in two halves. The exact duration of each half is not fixed in the available data, giving clubs and referees the option to adjust the playing time to the specific needs of the participants. This flexibility contributes to the child‑centred approach: the emphasis is on fun and development, not on a rigid time frame.
A notable feature of this game format is the introduction of the full offside rule. In D‑Juniors offside is introduced around the U12‑U13 age, causing players to learn early to seek space and timing, both in attack and defence. This helps them later, when the transition to 11‑against‑11 occurs, to already have a good understanding of the positional demands associated with offside.
The training philosophy: child‑centred, ball contact and funino
The German youth development is known for a child‑centred approach where maximum ball contact is central. This approach, often referred to as the "Funino‑reform", emphasises fun, enjoyment and a high intensity of individual duels. In practice this means young players get the ball at their feet as much as possible, allowing them to develop technical skills more quickly.
The term "funino" combines the words "fun" and "football". The idea is simple: by making the game fun, children stay motivated and develop a natural love for the sport. This philosophy is supported by an intensive 1‑against‑1 program. Young players often get the chance to practice in one‑on‑one situations, allowing them to learn how to beat an opponent, how to create space and how to continue performing under pressure.
In addition to individual duels, "gegenpressing" is a key concept in training. Gegenpressing, i.e., the immediate winning back of the ball after loss, is introduced in the so‑called NLZ (National Learning Room). For D‑Juniors this means that children learn early how to react quickly as a team to a loss of possession, a skill that later in higher‑level play is of essential importance.
The role of offside and the transition to 11‑against‑11
As mentioned earlier, offside is introduced around U12‑U13. This timing is not random; it is a deliberate choice that aligns with the cognitive development of children of that age. They are then able to better understand the concepts of space, timing and team positioning. By applying the full offside rule, they get the chance to become proficient at finding free spaces, both in attack and defence.
The next step in development is the transition to a full 11‑against‑11 formation, which usually takes place around U14. This transition is a natural continuation of the learned principles: the players already have experience with offside, 1‑against‑1 duels and gegenpressing, making the step to a larger field and more players feel less abrupt. The team then has to adapt to a different tactical dynamic, but the basic principles remain the same.
It is important to emphasise that the transition is not only a matter of more players on the field, but also a shift in the way coaches structure training. The emphasis gradually shifts from individual duels to more collective patterns, while the child‑centred approach remains preserved.
Practical tips for parents, coaches and youth players
1. Focus on ball contact. Ensure that your child touches the ball as much as possible during training and matches. A simple way to encourage this is to organise small games where the player must make a certain number of passes within a set time.
2. Work on 1‑against‑1 skills. Organise practice sessions where the emphasis is on one‑on‑one duels. This can be done, for example, by setting up a small field and having two players play against each other, focusing on dribbling, shooting and defending.
3. Introduce gegenpressing in a playful way. Have children, after losing possession, immediately try to win the ball back. This can be done in a small game where a team, once they lose the ball, has a set amount of time (e.g., 5 seconds) to regain it.
4. Explain offside concepts simply. Use visual aids such as cones or markings on the field to make the offside zone clear. Let children practice by moving inside and outside this zone, so they get a feel for where they may and may not stand.
5. Keep the playing duration flexible. Because the exact duration per half is not fixed, you can adjust the playing time to the age and energy level of the group. Shorter halves can increase intensity and maintain attention.
6. Encourage fun. Regardless of the technical and tactical demands, fun must always come first. A positive atmosphere ensures that children stay motivated and continue to develop.
Conclusion
The German approach for D‑Juniors (U12‑U13) combines a 9‑against‑9 format with full offside, a child‑centred philosophy and intensive 1‑against‑1 training. These elements provide a solid foundation for young players to develop technical skills, tactical understanding and a love for the game. By emphasizing ball contact, fun and gegenpressing, children learn from an early age how to perform under pressure and how to find space. Parents and coaches play a crucial role by putting these principles into practice and creating an environment where every player feels safe and motivated. With the right guidance the transition to 11‑against‑11 around U14 will be a natural continuation of the already acquired skills, preparing the younger generation for the next step in their football journey.