‘The Foundations of Football. Fundamentals of the Game’, edited by Opositta, promises to be essential reading for those who wish to understand the true principles of this sport
The Asturian football coach Ismael Díaz Galan has released a new book, titled ‘The Foundations of Football. Fundamentals of the game’ and edited by Opositta, with the aim of combating, among other issues, the distortion of the essence of football caused by confusing speeches from teammates and the media. “They distort reality so much that they confuse it,” says Galán.
In his work, Galán stands out for seeking clarity in his presentation, using accessible terminology even in the most technical sections. One of his main motivations, he explains, comes from the results obtained with his players, who often consider their seasons to be the best of their careers, even those who have promoted from lower categories.
With the experience of having worked with players from the Premier League, Barcelona and Real Madrid, Galán has received great praise: “I have to tell this,” he said to himself. His book not only aims to share his knowledge, but also interact with readers through an interactive email.
‘The Foundations of Football. Fundamentals of the Game’ addresses fundamental themes of the sport and dismantles deep-rooted myths, such as the belief that beauty is the opposite of effectiveness. “Guardiola is very lyrical and is the coach who has won the most titles in the world,” says Galán, refuting the idea that playing well is not just a matter of taste.
In addition, the book places special emphasis on inclusive language and tells transcendental stories, such as that of Sporting’s first women’s team, whose players defied their parents’ opposition and “still do not have their deserved place in the club’s museum,” as the author regrets.
Galán emphasizes the importance of making good decisions on the field and playing without fear of losing the ball. He also criticizes the lack of teaching on individual tactics in current manuals, which focus more on collective tactics without explaining why.
Written as if it were a soccer match, ‘The Foundations of Soccer. Fundamentals of the Game’ promises to be essential reading for those who wish to understand the true principles and reach a scientific consensus on its essence, with which “Mourinho and Guardiola would agree.”
During his career on the bench, Aviles native Ismael Díaz Galán directed teams such as Málaga, Cádiz, Granada, Huesca and Sporting. He has written four books on football before this last one and has been a contributor to print media and radio. He has been a teacher at Soccer Coaching Schools for three years and now, since March 2019, he is a JM10sport and CAA Base analyst technician. He serves as a game decision-making coach for top players of all ages.
