Post by Craig Foster AM

A little discussed aspect of the World Cup Final is the coaching development journey of the two coaches. In a World Cup with legendary names such as Ancelotti, Champions League winners like Tuchel, UCL Finalist Pochettino and other big names from the professional club game, these two are different. Both built their careers primarily in National Team football. De La Fuente spent 13 years from Under 19s to seniors, while Scaloni was senior assistant, then Under 20’s, then interim head coach and world and continental champion. It’s interesting because this has long been a discussion point in Australia. I’ve long argued that,m youth national teams should have a distinct style and approach to play, to prepare senior teams over years playing together which is a fundamental part of the success of Germany, France, Spain and Argentina, this youth pathway must also operate as an alternative route to the National team technical area. This means that there is a greater pool of coaches, including those who know the international game expertly, and become specialists at qualification campaigns and international tournaments. Choices can then be made as to a coach from the professional game, or national teams setup. Since 2006 we have not used this pathway effectively. Strategy.