Becoming a Pro: The Skills and Attributes You Need to Succeed in Soccer

For countless soccer players, young and old, the dream is to score a winning goal in a Champions League final. While this vision fuels passion, the reality is that only about 1% of players globally make a living from soccer, with an even smaller fraction reaching the elite leagues. According to FIFA, there are approximately 275 million soccer players worldwide, yet less than 10,000 play at the highest professional level, underscoring how rare it is to reach the top.

Despite these odds, many are still captivated by the prospect of turning pro. So, what does it take to reach that level?

1. Technical Ability

Technical skill is arguably the most crucial attribute for any soccer player. From a young age, players need to develop strong foundational skills—passing, dribbling, close control—that form the bedrock of the game. Studies show that professional players spend up to 20 hours per week on technical training alone, reinforcing the importance of consistent practice. Access to quality coaching is essential, but the drive to have the ball at one’s feet is vital to reaching the top.

2. Physical Fitness

Physical conditioning becomes increasingly important as a player progresses. Ideal attributes include speed, strength, agility, and endurance, all of which can be cultivated through structured strength and conditioning (S&C) and a balanced diet. According to a study by UEFA, professional players cover an average of 10-12 km per game, with sprinting distances totaling 1,000-1,500 meters. This level of physical demand emphasizes the importance of elite conditioning. Renowned players like Cristiano Ronaldo attribute much of their longevity and success to disciplined S&C routines and dietary practices.

3. Tactical Awareness

Soccer has evolved into a highly tactical game, requiring players to master team dynamics, spatial awareness, and decision-making. Tactical insight can be honed through coaching and experience, but instinctive understanding often differentiates top players. Elite players know when to pass, when to hold possession, and how to create space effectively—essential skills at the professional level. Data from FIFA shows that players make an average of 40-60 passes per game, underscoring the need for sound decision-making skills in high-pressure moments.

4. Mentality

Top players exhibit an exceptional mental edge, marked by resilience, concentration, and the ability to perform under pressure. While physical and technical skills are critical, mental strength can often be the deciding factor between those who make it and those who don’t. A study on professional athletes found that over 80% reported mental resilience as one of their top strengths, especially in competitive or high-stakes matches. The best players are goal-driven, disciplined, and manage their emotions well on the field.

Conclusion

The journey to becoming a professional footballer is challenging, and while luck may play a role, making smart decisions is key. At EDGE, our APEX program is designed to guide players on this journey. In 2023/24 alone, 10 players from our APEX Squad signed with A-League academies, while three players joined top academies in England and Italy. We take a holistic approach, focusing on the technical, tactical, physical, and psychological facets of the game, backed by our experienced coaching team and professional network.

If you're serious about taking that next step, start your journey with us. Watch this space.