It is no coincidence that soccer is the most popular sport in the world thanks to the billions of fans from all walks of life who enjoy the beautiful game. While its status as the number one sport is under no immediate threat, the game is more popular in certain areas of the world than in others.

This article answers the question “Where is Soccer Most Popular?” by uncovering the top soccer-mad nations on the planet. We also reveal a few reasons for the unmatched popularity of the beautiful game in those countries.

Where is Soccer Most Popular?

Soccer has traditionally been popular in South American countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Germany, Italy, England, and Spain are European nations where the game is loved while Nigeria and Egypt are also known as African soccer hotbeds.

Despite its humble beginnings in England in the 1800s, soccer has evolved to become the most popular sport on the planet. Many folks cannot help but fall in love with the game due to the easy rules, colorful jerseys, and of course the mesmerizing actions on the playing field.

It is easy as a fan to think that your compatriots are the most soccer-mad followers on the planet only to travel to another country and be met with even higher levels of dedication to the beautiful game. Here are the top 10 soccer-mad countries on the globe.

1. Brazil

Home of Pele, Ronaldinho, and Ronaldo, Brazil is the most passionate soccer nation in the world. For Brazilians, soccer is more of a culture than a sport and it doesn’t take a genius to figure that out a few minutes after walking on the streets of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paolo, or Brasilia.

Known for winning the FIFA World Cup a record 5 times, Brazilians live and breathe soccer. The men’s and women’s national teams have always been the top-ranked globally. Brazil is also the only country to have played in every World Cup so far while winning numerous other prestigious tournaments.

2. Germany

Germany’s 82 million population is the most passionate about soccer in Europe. It helps that their men’s national team is breathing down the neck of the Brazilians with four World Cup triumphs. After humiliating Brazil 7-1 in the 2014 World Cup, many fans believe it is only a matter of time before Germany equals Brazil’s winning record.

Also, Germany’s Bundesliga is one of the most famous soccer leagues around the world with a host of global stars. Superstar players to have donned the German shirt include Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller, and Jurgen Klinsmann.

Jurgen Klopp, Thomas Tuchel, and Julian Nagelsmann are German coaches who have reached the pinnacle of the game.

3. Argentina

The passion of Argentinian soccer fans is only matched in the South American region by the Brazilians. It helps that the Argentinian national team has been successful on the global stage, winning 2 World Cups in the process.

Argentina is famous for iconic soccer players like the late Diego Maradona, Alfredo Di Stefano, and Lionel Messi. Clubs like River Plate, Boca Juniors, Independiente, Racing, and San Lorenzo have also been successful in continental and local competitions.

4. Italy

Italy is another European nation with a huge soccer following. The multiple World Cup and European Cup triumphs underline the country’s reputation as a leading soccer nation. Besides, the Italian Serie A is one of the most prestigious leagues in the world.

Roberto Baggio, Paolo Maldini, and Francesco Totti are a few of the great players that have donned the Italian national team colors.

5. Nigeria

Nigeria is not only the most populous country in Africa, but it is also a continental soccer powerhouse. Nigeria has made explosive appearances in past World Cups and won multiple African Nations Cups. With many renowned players in the English Premier League, French Ligue 1, and Italian Serie A, Nigerians are ardent soccer followers.

Just spend a weekend in Lagos, Abuja, or any of the country’s cities and it becomes clear how much the locals appreciate their soccer.

6. England

England is not only known as the “home of soccer”, but it also has one of the strongest leagues in Europe. Many of the world’s best soccer players dream of featuring in the English Premiership before retirement.

England may have won a solitary World Cup in 1966 but the country remains as passionate as ever about the beautiful game.

7. Spain

Spain is another country where the effects of soccer are felt in every corner. The Spanish teams were perennial underachievers until 2008 when they won the Euros for the first time. They went on to triumph at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa before winning the Euro 2012 trophy.

Spain’s dominance is reflected by having the 2 most iconic soccer clubs in the world i.e. Real Madrid and Barcelona. Additionally, Spain’s La Liga is also one of the game’s most prestigious leagues, with a myriad of fans across every corner of the world.

8. Uruguay

Uruguay did not only host the first-ever FIFA World Cup in 1930 but also won it. The small South American nation bagged its second World Cup in 1950. Home to superstar players like Luis Suarez, Federico Valverde, and Darwin Nunez, Uruguay is a truly dedicated soccer nation.

Additionally, the Uruguayan Primera Division is one of the strongest leagues in South America with leading clubs like Nacional and Penarol.

9. Mexico

Soccer is the most popular sport in Mexico by a huge margin. Introduced into the country in the late 1800s, the first soccer club was founded in 1901 leading to a rapid interest in the sport. Mexico has produced some of the greatest players to appear in the game including Hugo Sanchez, Manuel Marquez, and Jorge Campos.

Mexico hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986 although it is yet to win. However, the North American country has won the Gold Cup a record 11 times.

10. Egypt

Egypt is another African country with an insatiable appetite for soccer. It has one of the strongest local leagues with prominent clubs like Al Ahly, Ismail, and Zamalek. Egypt has won the African Nations Cup a record seven times.

Notable names who have donned the Pharaohs of Egypt jersey include Mohammed Salah, Mohamed Aboutrika, and Mido.

What is The Most Popular Country For Soccer?

China is the most popular country for soccer in terms of population. With an estimated 187 million soccer fans, no other country matches the Asian nation. Many believe that soccer originated in China more than 2300 years ago in the city of Lin Zi as a sport to check the physical conditioning of soldiers.

The game may have only become popular in the country in the last two decades or so, but a sizable population has fallen for it.

What City Is Soccer Most Popular in the United States?

Los Angeles is the number one city for soccer in the United States thanks to its huge Latino population. The presence of MLS teams such as the Los Angeles Galaxy and Los Angeles FC add to the thrill of living in the city among soccer fans.

Followers of the beautiful game that reside in LA count themselves lucky because they never run out of soccer matches to watch during the major season.

Where Is Soccer The Least Popular?

Soccer may be the number one sport in the world but there are a few countries where an alternative sport is more popular including India, the United States, Canada, Australia, Lithuania, and South Africa. If you live in any of these countries, chances are soccer is not your greatest passion.

Which Country Has The Best Soccer Fans?

Brazil is not only the number one football nation in the world but also has the best soccer fans. They are the most passionate followers on the planet which becomes evident during World Cup, Copa America, and other tournaments.

The five-time world champions and nine-time Copa America champions have extremely demanding fans that expect nothing but gold medals during every tournament.

Why is Soccer So Popular In Europe?

Soccer’s popularity in Europe is due to its working-class roots and the simplicity of the game. The fact that the sport originated in Europe which features some of the most prestigious clubs also fuels its increasing popularity.

Besides, Europe has some of the best soccer stadia in the world with well-organized leagues and cup competitions that are attractive to the average person. The beautiful game’s popularity on the continent does not seem like waning anytime soon.

Conclusion

Soccer is more popular in South American powerhouses such as Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. In Europe, countries like Germany, England, Italy, and Spain have citizens that breathe and live soccer while Nigeria and Egypt are the giants of the game in Africa in terms of popularity.

However, the popularity of the sport continues to surge and countries like the United States, China, and India are emerging as soccer frontlines. Experts believe it is only a matter of time before the Asian and North American nations rival Europe in terms of the number of followers.

Scouts are responsible for spotting talented players for professional clubs to maintain a roster capable of meeting the team’s needs on the field. Many folks wonder where soccer scouts find players in order to give themselves an entry route into the professional game.

This article answers the question “Where Do Soccer Scouts Look For Players?” by discussing the top avenues players are discovered by scouts into the professional game. We also outline attributes scouts look out for in players to recommend them for their clubs.

Where Do Soccer Scouts Look For Players?

Soccer scouts discover players during open tryouts by their clubs as well as games played in NCAA college tournaments. Scouts also frequently attend high school soccer games, and youth soccer tournaments and may even watch Youtube videos of players showing traces of outstanding talent.

Getting discovered by a connected scout is the main entry route into the professional game for prospective soccer players. Players who are desperate for their talent to be unearthed have to put themselves in the right places at the right time to increase their chances of getting noticed by a professional club.

5 Places Where Soccer Scouts Discover Players

Here are the 5 places where soccer scouts discover players in the modern game across different areas of the world.

Open Tryouts

Open tryouts are one of the easiest routes into the professional game because it brings together reputable scouts. These tryouts may be held by professional clubs with their in-house scouts in attendance to spot and recommend the best talent.

Clubs typically organize tryouts with an idea of what players to look out for in terms of positions, physique, and talent level. The good news about such tryouts is that it gives the chosen players a straight route into the club’s teams.

Many of these tryouts focus on recruitment into the organizing club’s second and feeder teams but players that make the cut over there are fast-tracked into their first teams without hesitation. The LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls are a few examples of MLS teams that hold annual tryouts for talented players to showcase what they can do.

The criteria for getting into tryouts are usually basic and include a specified age range as well as gender. Many of these clubs also hold tryouts for their developmental teams to ensure a constant supply of talent for their main teams.

College Soccer

College soccer tournaments like the NCAA in the United States can be a great way to catch the attention of soccer scouts. Many colleges offer athletic scholarships to the best soccer players that apply to give their teams a competitive advantage.

Many soccer team scouts attend games in these tournaments with the aim of discovering top talent to recommend for the MLS SuperDraft. Other clubs abroad may recruit outstanding players directly depending on their performances.

Either way, college soccer opens doors for players to turn pro because it provides a platform to catch the eye of some of the most reputable scouts in the North American region and elsewhere.

High School Soccer

High school soccer competitions also serve as a gateway for players to attract the attention of club scouts. Many clubs have vast scouting networks across different parts of the world to discover and nurture young talent.

High school students that show impressive performances during competitions are likely to catch the attention of scouts. These scouts may integrate such students into the corresponding age group in their club’s academies for further development.

The best high school soccer players typically find themselves attracting contact from scouts which provide opportunities to get into the books of some of the best clubs in the world.

Youth Soccer Tournaments

Soccer clubs believe in spotting talent as early as possible for development. Some of the biggest global clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Barcelona begin drafting players into their academies from as young as 6 years old.

Players that stand out during youth soccer tournaments have a good chance of drawing the attention of reputable scouts to get into the books of some of the best soccer clubs on the planet. This is the reason why clubs spend so much money to build robust scouting systems in the first place.

If there’s any youth soccer player anywhere, chances are professional scouts are already aware of him or her and making plans on how to move forward in the sign-up process.

YouTube

Youtube is proving to be a great way to alert scouts to the existence of talented players. Many prospective professionals post videos of their games on the popular video streaming channel. This could be the first point of contact for scouts to dig further into a player’s qualities.

Soccer scouts are old school and no one will sign a player based on a few Youtube videos but they serve as the first point of contact. Scouts are likely to travel to observe the player in action several times before making up their minds on whether the player has what it takes to make it in the professional game.

What Attributes Do Scouts Look Out For In Soccer Players?

Scouts come across thousands of soccer players in their line of duty but only a few receive recommendations for professional contracts. Here are the top attributes scouts look out for before recommending players.

Soccer Scouts Look For Technical Ability

Technical ability is the number one trait soccer scouts look out for in players. Basic skills like dribbling, passing, shooting, heading, and a great first touch are a minimum requirement for grabbing a scout’s attention.

This is why players who aspire to participate in the professional game are advised to keep practicing to improve their skills. Obviously, a defender is expected to be a better tackler than a striker while the latter should have a superior eye for goal.

But, versatility is an equally important trait in the game, and sometimes, scouts make their choice between two players in the same position because one is slightly more versatile.

Soccer Scouts Respect Intelligence

Soccer intelligence is a core attribute of the game which becomes evident in a player after a few minutes of watching him or her. A player should always be aware of the surroundings and make the right decisions to advance the team’s interests without much effort.

Positioning is one of the vital ways players show their soccer intelligence both on and off the ball. Players that go out of position when their team loses possession are likely to put teammates at a disadvantage during swift counterattacks which could result in conceding.

This is in sharp contrast to players that draw multiple opponents out of position to create spaces for teammates to exploit during attacks which increases the chances of scoring.

Soccer Scouts Look For Mental Fortitude and Leadership Qualities

Scouts have a lot of respect for players that show mental fortitude regardless of whether the game is going in their favor or not. Players who maintain tactical discipline even when their team is winning are likely to draw the attention of scouts.

This is in contrast to players that abandon their positions just because their team may be ahead which leaves gaps for the opposition to exploit to close in on the results of the game.

Also, a player’s ability to lead by example on the field including putting their bodies on the line and coming to the aid of struggling teammates without abandoning their own positions is an admirable trait in the books of soccer scouts.

Soccer Scouts Watch Out For Physical Traits

Soccer may not be the most physical sport but scouts still look out for physical traits that could serve as an advantage for their teams. For instance, strong, tall center backs with excellent technical and tactical ability will always be well sought after.

A striker that has an equal ability with both feet is likely to draw the attention of scouts as long as the player has exceptional technical and tactical qualities. This physical trait could serve as an advantage over another single-footed striker with similar tactical and technical attributes.

Scouts also look out for players who are in great shape physically even at a young age. Tireless players are always an asset to their teams and are known to experience career longevity which can be a plus to professional clubs that eventually sign them.

Soccer Scouts Prefer Pacy Players

Speed is an essential attribute in soccer and amateurs that display exceptional levels always attract the attention of scouts. It has always been a core trait among wingers but quicker players are becoming increasingly essential in all areas of the game.

It doesn’t take long for pacey players to stand out during tryouts and other competitive matches. Pace can be vital to strikers’ ability to outwit defenders for scoring opportunities or for midfielders to win balls in the middle of the park.

Pacey defenders also beat strikers to the ball to stave off attacks and protect their goalkeepers which limits how many scoring chances opponents create.

Soccer Scouts Love Players With Great Personality

Personality is another important trait soccer scouts look out for in players during tryouts and other talent acquisition competitions. Does the player look hungry to succeed? Does he or she play with enough commitment to winning? Does the player show good leadership qualities?

Players who display a positive personality on the field, as well as good leadership qualities coupled with the necessary talents, are recommended by scouts to their clubs.

Conclusion

Soccer scouts find talent from a wide range of sources including open club tryouts, college soccer competitions, high school competitions, and youth soccer tournaments. An increasing number of scouts are also logging onto YouTube for leads on prospective talent.

Scouts look out for attributes like tactical and technical ability as well as pace and leadership qualities in players aspiring to enter the professional game. Personality, hunger, and physical attributes are additional qualities scouts look out for to determine whether to recommend a player for a professional contract.

Soccer players and fans are aware that the game has eleven positions on the field at any point. For injury-conscious aspiring players, there might come a point where you may wonder which position offers more danger compared to the rest.

This article answers the question “What is The Most Dangerous Position In Soccer?” by discussing what position puts players at the highest risk of injury. Alternative positions that could make players susceptible to injury are also discussed.

What Is The Most Dangerous Position In Soccer?

Goalkeeping is the most dangerous position in soccer although they may not have as many encounters with opposition players, unlike midfielders and strikers. However, the risk of injury during the relatively limited physical contact is highest for goalies. Common causes of injury include collisions and other forms of accidental contact even with their own teammates.

There’s a common misconception that goalies have a field day on the playing field since they are only called into action when the ball is in their penalty area. This couldn’t be further from the truth because although goalkeepers may see relatively little of the ball, the danger posed during the limited contact can be excessive.

Soccer is a complex contact sport and unfortunately, injuries will always be a part of it. Generally, the higher the amount of physical contact a player is exposed to, the higher the risk of injury sustenance. Forwards and advanced midfielders experience heavier contact with opposition players due to the advanced nature of their position on the field.

Defenders regard strikers as the key to scoring and are always on hand to stop them at all costs. No wonder strikers are more susceptible to injury than any other position on the field. However, goalkeepers appear as runners-up in the majority of studies that delve into the prevalence of soccer injuries among players based on positions.

This is because goalies are exposed to more serious injuries despite relatively less physical contact with other players in the course of 90 minutes. Anyone who has played soccer professionally or in amateur circles freely admits that the severity of the injuries suffered by keepers also tends to be much higher.

So not only are goalkeepers at a higher risk of injury from the limited encounters with other players on the field but the severity could also be higher. No wonder keepers are allowed to appear on the field with protective gear to minimize the risk of injury.

What Makes Goalkeepers The Most Dangerous Position In Soccer?

Soccer may be relatively safe compared to alternative sports but players are still susceptible to various kinds of injury. Here are the reasons why goalkeepers are the most dangerous soccer position.

1. Goalkeepers Face The Opposition Regardless of The Risks

Goalkeepers are expected to face the opposition at all costs by putting their bodies on the line. Regardless of how much physical danger a goalie may be in, it is their job to block all balls out of their goalposts regardless of the angle.

Many outfield players shy away from tackles or balls that could potentially put them at a high risk of danger without drawing attention to themselves. Can you imagine how much abuse any goalkeeper would suffer from shying away from a ball that is in danger of entering their nets?

Goalkeepers are expected to be fearless throughout the 90 minutes of play and while coaches frequently advise forwards not to risk injury especially when the team is in a commanding lead, goalies who show the slightest signs of fear in the discharge of their duties end up on the bench latest by the next game.

2. Goalkeepers Are The Last Line Of Defence Against Powerful Shots

Goalkeepers are expected to keep out even the most powerful shots regardless of the injury risks. During setpieces like freekicks, many defenders are seen ducking away from such shots leaving goalkeepers at the mercy of the ball.

Strikers like Cristiano Ronaldo have made a career out of taking extremely powerful shots that put goalies at a high risk of injury during saving attempts. Even contact with those balls could lead to hand and wrist injuries despite wearing protective gloves.

However, nobody cares about what risks goalies face trying to keep out such shots. From head collisions with the goalposts to awkward landings that may break the bones, keepers are expected to put their bodies on the line in every single game.

3. Goalkeepers Sometimes Need To Come Off Their Lines

Goalkeepers are expected to come off their lines in various periods of the game, especially when an opponent breaks through on goal. Good goalies do not only react with speed but also put their bodies on the line despite a high risk of getting kicked or stamped on by opponents.

The physical contact with the opposition player in such scenarios can be pretty intense putting keepers at a high risk of injuries. Coming off the line also increases the risk of a goalkeeper being humiliated by the striker after unsuccessful attempts at physical contact with the ball.

Keepers could easily suffer a red card, penalty, or both when the timing is slightly inaccurate or illegal contact is judged by the referee.

4. Goalkeepers Need To Win Aerial Balls At All Costs

Aerial balls are another area of danger goalkeepers face during the discharge of their duties. During free kicks, corner kicks, and throw-ins, goalies are expected to challenge for and win aerial duels regardless of the physical dangers involved.

The charged nature of such duels often leads to collisions with opponents and sometimes the goalkeeper’s own teammates. Missing these aerial balls could prove disastrous which is why goalkeepers put in their best to ensure physical contact is made.

The result is an increased risk of concussions and other severe injuries when the goalie collides with other players or even falls down on the ground after accidental slipping.

5. Goalkeepers Need To React Quickly To Defensive Errors

Central defenders commit defensive errors from time to time and goalkeepers are required to clean them up. Imagine a center-back losing possession right in front of his team’s 18-yard box in the middle of an important game.

Goalkeepers are immediately put on the spot to save the day which could increase the risk of injury or even illegal physical contact with an opponent player. The goalie may end up taking the fall for a red card or conceding a penalty from the incident despite the defender’s actions prior to the goalkeeper being forced to step in.

6. Goalkeepers Face More Competition Than Other Players

Goalies face more competition than outfield players which increases the pressure they face to deliver in every game. Out of the 11 positions on the soccer field, only one goalkeeper is allowed in the game which often puts them under significant pressure.

One bad game could result in a first-choice goalkeeper being banished to the sidelines for good when the replacement goalie impresses. Just ask Liverpool’s Loris Karius who has never played for the club again four years after two costly mistakes in the Champions League final against Real Madrid.

Despite public defense by his manager Jurgen Klopp, Karius has been shipped out on loan several times since that game. Liverpool broke the world record for a goalkeeper in Alisson Becker and have never looked back at Karius ever since.

7. Goalkeepers Are Expected To Save Penalties

Goalkeepers are expected to save penalties despite a success rate of only 18 percent, according to the statistics. It is not uncommon for games to go to penalty kicks during the knockout stages of tournaments where a winner must emerge.

Fans and teammates put a lot of hope in their goalkeepers to save the opponent’s penalty kicks during such situations. Goalkeepers unable to save a few of these penalties may end up getting abused by fans. Even teammates can lose confidence in such goalies even if they won’t say it out loud.

What is The Easiest Position in Soccer

Fullback is the easiest soccer position due to the limited contact with the ball and minimal responsibility compared to the other positions. Fullbacks are neither expected to be the most talented members of the team nor blamed for conceded goals, unlike center backs and goalkeepers.

Some of the best all-conquering soccer teams have triumphed with averagely talented fullbacks like Gary Neville and Alvaro Arbeloa.

Conclusion: What Is The Most Dangerous Position In Soccer?

The goalkeeper is the most dangerous soccer position thanks to the charged nature of contact with other players on the field. While goalies may not see as much of the ball as other positions, they face a lot of danger in the relatively few times the ball comes into their 18-yard area.

Goalkeepers are required to save all balls from entering their nets despite the injury risks even after defenders and other teammates have conveniently ducked them. They are also required to win aerial challenges and save even the most powerful shots.

Goalkeepers face a lot of competition since only one can play the game at any point, unlike outfield players. The pressure to perform in every game is high because the position is unforgivable and one mistake could cost a goalkeeper’s place on the team forever.

Soccer is a team sport comprising 11 players working together with a common interest on the field. Fans and pundits have been debating what the easiest position in the game is for centuries and it does not seem like ending anytime soon.

This article answers the question “What is The Easiest Soccer Position?” by detailing reasons why a particular position is relatively easier than the rest. We also conclude what we believe is the most difficult position on the field of play.

What is The Easiest Soccer Position?

The fullback position is the easiest in soccer due to its relatively low expectation compared with central defenders, midfielders, wingers, and strikers. Fullbacks can coast through games without drawing attention because they naturally have minimal contact with the ball.

The left and right full-backs are an important position in the game of soccer since they are expected to help central defenders stave off the opponent’s attacks. However, compared to the rest of the team, fullbacks may have a field day throughout the game.

How Many Positions Are In Soccer?

Soccer has 11 different positions comprising the goalkeeper, 2 center backs, 2 full backs, 2 central midfielders, 2 wingers, a playmaker, and a striker. Teams play different systems that redistribute the players in different positions.

But the traditional 4-4-2 system comprises the positions stipulated above. Regardless of what formation a team plays, there will always be 11 positions on the field.

Why Fullbacks Are The Easiest Soccer Position

Here are the main reasons why we believe fullbacks are the easiest soccer position.

Low Responsibility

The amount of responsibility placed on players in other positions is extremely high but fullbacks are always an afterthought.

Strikers are tasked with scoring goals and in tight games with the slightest margins, they are the ones who typically feel the heat as teammates and fans hold their breath waiting for a goal. Sometimes, the pressure gets to strikers so much that they end up missing sitters and other easy chances.

Midfielders are known as the drivers of each team as they display their magic by controlling the tempo and direction of the game. Midfielders speed up the pace of the game or slow it down depending on the team’s tactics.

The best teams in the world have solid central midfielders that keep the ball among teammates by making incisive passes and runs. They also act as a shield to prevent opponents from transitioning the ball into their halves which could increase the chances of scoring.

Many goals are conceded when midfielders lose possession in key areas of the field and Paul Pogba’s time at Manchester United was characterized by many such errors. No wonder many United fans look back on their most expensive signing’s six years in the club as a failure.

Central defenders act as the last shield against goal concession and teams often lose games when these players have a bad day. Many teams play from the back meaning central defenders help set the tempo of the game.

They are also tasked with doing everything possible during aerial challenges and other situations that could lead to goal concessions. It is not uncommon for central defenders to put their bodies on the line against incoming balls. No wonder midfielders have the highest running statistics among soccer players.

Goalkeepers are responsible for keeping the ball out of their nets at all costs. From diving to participating in aerial duels and coming out of their posts to tackle opponents who have broken through the defense, goalies are handed significant responsibilities.

Goalkeepers always bear the brunt of fans when the team concedes even when it is not their fault. Many have sustained significant injuries in their attempts to keep balls out of their nets at all costs and no wonder many folks believe goalkeeper is the most dangerous soccer position.

The responsibilities of the teammates above are enormous compared with full-backs who are just meant to pass the ball to wingers and other teammates, undertake setpieces like throw-ins, and join the attack occasionally.

They may also help central defenders during counterattacks by the opponents but full-backs are not expected to be the last line of defense nor control the tempo of the game. No fans or teammates blame fullbacks even after missing sitters because everyone knows that scoring is not their responsibility.

Fullbacks seldom undertake scoring opportunities like freekicks and penalty kicks awarded to their team which shields them from coming under verbal abuse when things go wrong.

Minimal Running Required

While soccer currently has a few speedy fullbacks like Canada and Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies, Morocco and PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, and England and Liverpool’s, Trent Alexander-Arnold, fullbacks have traditionally been one of the slowest on the pitch.

Few explosive runs come in handy during certain points in the game such as counter-attacks against the opposition. But generally, fullbacks engage in minimal running compared to wingers, forwards, and central defenders.

Running statistics revealed at the end of soccer games show that fullbacks typically have the lowest figures compared to other outfield players. Only goalies and central defenders run less in the majority of soccer games.

Low Expectations On Fullbacks

Fullbacks have minimal expectations compared to other teammates on the field of play. This is due to the nature of their position which often limits the number of touches made with the ball. This low level of expectations translates to minimal pressure on players in this position.

Not many teams are set up with full-backs tasked with making game-changing decisions. Although they are given specific responsibilities to help the team, fullbacks often have minimal influence on the outcome of the game.

They do not have to carry the team when things are not going well unlike midfielders and strikers. A Fullback’s contribution is limited and most teams have come to expect that.

Fullbacks Are Seldom Blamed For Lost Matches

The majority of fans look for somebody to blame when their teams lose important games and central defenders are easy targets alongside goalkeepers. This is because those two positions are mainly trusted with preventing goal concession.

Central midfielders who may have lost possession in the middle of the field sometimes suffer a lot of criticism from fans as well. The criticism could be so fierce that some players even receive death threats from passionate fans.

However, fullbacks are usually not targeted due to the nature of their playing position. Even when they lose possession in dangerous areas, center-backs are expected to clean up the mess and failure to do so leads to verbal abuse of the latter.

Soccer Fullbacks Have Relatively Low Skills & Talent

Many soccer positions require exceptional talent and skill to fit in. Not only are these players expected to be gifted with tactical discipline but the speed and the ability to take on opponents at any point are also required. However, fullbacks are famous for not being the most talented on many teams.

Former England and Manchester United Fullback Gary Neville’s talents were ridiculed by colleagues and fans despite playing in some of the most trophy-laden teams in the history of the game. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher’s famous statement that “No one wants to grow up and be Gary Neville” is proof of the fullback’s talent status in the game.

What Is The Most Difficult Position To Play?

Goalkeepeeping is the most difficult position to play and the fact that they are allowed to use their hands in addition to their feet is a testament to the challenges they have to face in goalposts. Unlike other positions where players may be able to coast through without problems, bad goalkeepers concede multiple goals in games.

This makes it clear that the keeper is not good enough and coaches are forced into making substitutions when possible. Germany international Loris Karius became a pariah after his two mistakes cost Liverpool in the 2018 Champion’s League final against Real Madrid.

Conclusion: What is The Easiest Soccer Position?

Fullbacks are the easiest position in the game of soccer because of the low expectations and minimal amount of talent required to play. Although many exciting fullbacks are currently on the books of some of the biggest teams, the majority of soccer fans grew up watching average fullbacks like Gary Neville and Alvaro Arbelo playing for major clubs like Manchester United and Real Madrid.

The fullback position requires relatively minimal running and low contact with the ball. Fullbacks do not receive the same level of abuse from fans after losing games because of the low expectations placed on them.

Soccer goalkeepers are the last line of defense against the opposition’s efforts to score and anyone that wants to play in that position requires a couple of vital gear. Not only are soccer goalies allowed to play with their hands but the penchant for diving onto both sides of the goalposts to keep balls out exposes them to various injuries.

This article answers the question “What Gear Does A Soccer Goalie Need?” by discussing the vital gear soccer goalies require to thrive in the position. We also delve into the functionality of each of the gear on our list and how critical they can be to the goalie’s performance.

What Gear Does A Soccer Goalie Need?

Soccer goalies require specialized goalkeeping gloves, padded shorts or pants, padded jerseys, and cleats. Shin guards, glove towels, headgear, finger tapes, and knee pads are additional gear that could help goalkeepers play to maximum potential while minimizing injuries.

Goalkeeping is probably the most important position on the soccer field because a bad goalkeeper can be more costly to a team’s chances of winning. Even the best goalkeepers experience bad days sometimes and their teams end up paying massively for it when that occurs.

Here is the most essential gear goalies require to produce maximum performances every time. The majority of the gear is usually inscribed with the goalkeeper’s jersey number for easy identification.

1. Goalkeeper Gloves

A goalkeeper’s gloves are probably the most important gear since it enables safe physical contact with the ball during the game. Unlike the outfield players, goalkeepers are allowed to use their hands as and when necessary.

The gloves are designed in a palm shape typically made from latex to enable easy movement of the individual fingers while protecting the wrists and other areas of the hands from exposure to injury. Soccer balls may be hit with explosive power but the correct hand gloves enable goalies to stop them when possible without problems.

Goalkeeper’s gloves come in various colors, brands, and materials so proper market research can be essential to finding the best option.

2. Headgear

Headgear could be literally lifesaving for goalkeepers due to the delicate nature of their playing position. Diving to one side of the goalposts or another and physical clashes with other players are leading causes of concussions among keepers.

Soccer is a heavy contact sport meaning collisions cannot be eliminated despite best efforts. But wearing the right headgear has proven to protect goalies from the majority of the head injuries sustained on the playing field.

Experts believe even outfield players should wear headgear to guard against potential head injuries during practice sessions and on game days.

3. Protective Leggings

Protective leggings complement padded shorts to provide maximum shielding of every area of the goalkeeper’s legs during practice and official games. Although the leggings offer minimal impact protection, turf burn is greatly reduced when worn while promoting greater flexibility compared with pants.

Protective leggings should match the color of the padded shorts to prevent keepers from getting into trouble with the referees. Professional clubs offer these shorts to goalkeepers but amateurs are usually required to order their own.

4. Padded Shorts

Diving and sliding are key aspects of a goalkeeper’s game during attempts to keep balls out of their nets. Heavy landing on the field or astroturf may expose goalies to various injuries that could keep them on the sidelines for weeks or even months.

Wearing padded shorts protects their bodies from impact and turf burn in the course of the game. They are especially critical for sweeper keepers that play the game aggressively with a penchant for coming out of their goalposts quickly.

We recommend choosing padded shorts that offer additional protection in the thigh and tailbone area to ensure maximum performance from goalkeepers, especially after drawn games where penalty kicks may be used as a tiebreaker.

5. Padded Jerseys

Padded jerseys are another important gear for goalkeepers in soccer. Unlike other sports like ice hockey, goalies are not allowed to wear the same uniform as the outfield players to enable referees to provide more protection for them.

The majority of goalkeepers prefer longsleeved padded jerseys with built-in protection for the arms, elbows, and other areas. These shirts often come in brightly-colored designs to allow easy recognition by teammates during the heat of the action.

For instance, a goalkeeper that comes out of his goal to defend a ball should be instantly noticeable to teammates. This could alert them to shield the keeper from collisions and other common forms of injury.

6. Soccer Cleats

Goalkeepers are supposed to wear the right-fitting cleats just like other players to enable proper kicking of the ball. The cleats should also promote stability on the playing field to prevent slips and falls that may be costly to the goalie’s teammates.

Slips and falls are also a common source of serious injury in soccer and this explains why the right cleats should be worn at all times. We recommend that goalies have different types of cleats to match the nature of their playing field at different periods.

For instance, Soft Ground cleats are more suitable for muddy conditions while Firm Ground cleats are engineered to meet the requirements of regular, non-soft playing fields.

7. Cleat Insoles

Premium insoles come in handy by promoting maximum traction and responsiveness from the worn cleats. Foot slippage is a common problem in soccer players and the presence of these insoles ensures proper comfort for the wearer.

The right insoles keep the feet in place to encourage explosive speeds which may come in handy during aerial ball challenges or when keepers are forced to come out of their eighteen yards to defend against potentially dangerous situations.

The right insoles also guarantee more traction on the playing field which enables goalkeepers to give off their best.

8. Shin Guards

The shin is one of the most exposed parts of a soccer player’s body regardless of the position. Taking a kick to the shin happens almost every game which is why shin guards are such essential gear for the modern goalkeeper.

Shin guards come in different shapes and sizes and keepers are recommended to find a balance between securing the right protection without experiencing a slow down during movements. Heavier shinguards tend to be the main culprits in terms of slowing down goalkeeper movements.

Shin guards are also mandatory equipment according to the FIFA handbook meaning referees do not allow players without shin guards to play the game.

9. Glove Towels

Maximum hand glove grip can be the difference between an outstanding goalkeeping performance and fluffing the lines. Glove towels are critical because it enables players to maintain exceptional grip throughout the 90 minutes of play even during unfavorable weather.

This does not only offer players increased confidence but also eliminates the risk of ball-dropping and other incidents in the course of the game. Glove towels come in many shapes and forms and could be hung in the keeper’s net when not in use.

All a goalkeeper needs is a few seconds of inaction to wipe their gloves with the towel to continue the game. These towels become even more essential during rainy situations when the gloves are at a high chance of contact with mud.

10. Finger Tapes

Noticed how the best players in the world start removing tape from their fingers at the end of games? This is because the use of athletic tapes offers more strength and stability to the joints in the gloved fingers to improve performance.

Catching, punching, and distributing balls with the hands become more flexible when finger tapes are worn. Finger tapes also serve as an extra layer of protection against finger and wrist injuries during collisions with other players. (Source)

11. Knee Pads

Goalkeepers experience extreme exposure to the knees during practice and official games. From diving across areas in their 18-yard box to tackling and sliding opponent players, a goalkeeper’s knees are susceptible to slips, falls, and other forms of impacts.

Knee injuries like Anterior Cruciate Ligaments and Medial Collateral Ligaments can keep players on the sidelines for long periods as they recover. Fortunately, wearing knee pads lowers the risk of impact against kicks to the knees from opponents as well as the impact from falls and other accidents.

12. Waterproof Jacket

Goalkeepers require waterproof jackets to keep warm just before the game starts. These jackets come in handy during warmups as they help ramp up the keeper’s internal temperatures which minimize the risk of injuries.

The warmed-up muscles absorb shock better which reduces the number of sustainable injuries on the playing field.

13. Backpack or Soccer Bag

Goalkeepers need a large backpack or specialized bag for storing essential gear especially when traveling for games. Bags come in different shapes and sizes so choosing one that can accommodate the goalkeeper’s bells and whistles while staying portable could be smart.

Soccer bags are common in sports shops and online so finding the right model should not be a problem as long as you’re willing to look around.

14. Mouth Guard

It is not uncommon for goalkeepers to suffer serious collisions resulting in dental injuries from knocked down teeth to tongue and gum problems. Wearing mouth guards offer protection for the most sensitive areas of the player’s oral cavity.

Mouth guards have also proven to improve performance by maximizing the amount of oxygen inhaled in the course of the game. This keeps goalkeepers more alert and enables them to meet the full rigors of the match.

Conclusion

Goalkeepers require essential gear to enhance on-field performance since they serve as guardians of the team’s goal posts. The right gear also offers protection against injuries while keeping players mentally and physically alert to meet the team’s needs.

Padded jerseys and padded shorts or pants are two of the most important accessories required because it enables players to dive, attack, and slide with minimal exposure to dangerous impact and turf burn. Mouthguards also protect the teeth and other areas of the mouth from injury.

Additional gear essential for playing the game include cleats, shin guards, and hand gloves for better stability in the game as well as protection from shin and hand injuries.