It’s estimated that over 240 million people play football regularly, in some capacity (FIFA).

To make the elite level, you have to stand out. Whether this is to draw attention from scouts, managers, or fellow players, being different is widely considered a positive trait in football. 

To us, standing out can be demonstrated in two ways: the way you look and play. How often have you heard someone describe a technical player as looking the part or that they look like a player? Perception can be a huge psychological advantage in football, but perception can only get you so far.

Standing out visually is complex. Some top players are described as having a swagger, an aura of confidence. But is it possible to replicate this? we think so. You can often identify a good footballer by looks. A baller sporting the latest trends, newest boots, grip socks, tapes, and so on can all be early indicators of a serious player.

*Disclaimer - we are not saying that looks alone define a player's capabilities. You will come across many quality players with a traditional look (black boots, old-school socks) and you'll come across more that may look the part but in reality, are very average.

As discussed in APBlog 2, confidence can be generated by our look. Standing out by your boots, grip sock or, tape can enable you to stand out in-game. 

So, how can you stand out in-game?

This is subject to position, level, and age. Scouts will look for specific qualities depending on age alone. Below, we have highlighted 3 areas that can help you stand out across any level:

Being a communicator - 

This may seem like a straightforward principle to grasp, yet many do not use the easiest tool each of us possesses - our voice. It takes zero talent or ability to stand out using your voice, and it can give you and your teammates an advantage over an opponent. Giving a teammate a simple man-on shout can help boost awareness and potentially leave you with an overload if worked effectively.

Always showing for the ball - 

Always moving into space to receive a pass highlights confidence in your game. A true standout will always look to receive the ball and have an impact on the game. A minor detail, such as being available no matter what the circumstance, or pressure, will boost your reputation with teammates, managers and scouts alike. 

Decision making -

This is arguably the most complex and last quality most players develop. Timing when and what type of pass or run, or shot to make is a truly elite-level skill that only really the professionals master consistently. To truly stand out at a young age, becoming an excellent decision maker is key. Most academy scouts will tell you the same thing, and without this quality, very few, if any, make it. The most notable way to train yourself to make the correct decision, at the correct times is to study and watch the elite-level professionals (you will not go far wrong watching youtube clips of Xavi, Iniesta, and Busquets).

We hope the above has given you an insight into standing out, no matter the level you play at, and gives you a fresh perspective on what it takes to be that difference maker in game.