Aspire in the World Fellows Book - 2025

54 55 11TH ASPIRE ACADEMY GLOBAL SUMMIT ASPIRE IN THE WORLD FELLOWS I don’t think like that. I knew I wanted to coach, but not when or where. I’m happy in Columbus. What matters to me is evolution. Concepts change each year. I see football through concepts and relationships, not rigid systems. Sometimes I give the players only the defensive structure and let them work out solutions based on our principles. It’s a test for them and for us as coaches. If they understand cues, they can run together, find the spaces, play between the lines, or go around. Systems keep us safe; relationships help us win. The connection between players is more important than formations. Your style of football is attractive and proven. Do you think ahead about howyour style might fit the Premier League, Serie A, or Europe in general? I think so. Tactical content is widely available, and young coaches follow that path. But the game has less time and space, so the player who makes the difference is the one willing to try something. Coaches often insist on one or two touches, but sometimes the game requires ten touches, or a dribble, or drawing opponents in. Players sometimes stop trying because they hear “pass, pass, pass” constantly. The 1v1 is vital—offensively and defensively. Fullbacks must be able to dribble or take many touches when needed or play quickly depending on the situation. I love watching Brazilian and Argentinian football because they balance structure with freedom and emotion. Fans need that. We must find that balance again. Every World Cup boosts football in the host nations. I’m excited it’s here because the atmosphere will be incredible. The passion will be different from other sports in North America. People overseas will see how much the U.S. and Canada have improved. MLS is only 30 years old— that’s nothing compared to leagues over 100 years old. It’s an exciting time for the next generation. I wouldwant themto say I encouraged them to do what they truly felt, not what they thought a coach wanted. You have to be genuine about how you see football and how you pursue success. You will always be criticized, so you must believe in yourself and remain coherent with your values. Be open-minded but clear. If you’re not confident, one day you’ll press high and the next you’ll stay in a low block. You must adjust but also commit to what you believe is best—not only to win but to be at peace with yourself. Do you think the football world relies too much on systems now? I watch some games and feel like personality and spontaneity are disappearing. Next year is the 2026World Cup in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. How quickly can soccer accelerate in North America because of it? Last one: your career is over, you’ve won everything, what do you want your players to say about you? What impact do you want to leave?