Leadership! What’s the Magic?

With the recent announcement of Kevin De Bruyne ending his ten years of incredible success at Man City, I watched enthralled as he pulled City back from a first-half 2-0 deficit against a strong Crystal Palace side to win 5-2.

The first show of brilliance was a wickedly fast snapshot from outside the box, where he shaped to bend the ball to the goalkeeper’s left but pulled his foot around the ball at the last second to direct it to the goalkeeper’s right. The technique was done with such precision and punch, it took everyone a second or two to realise what had happened, as the ball struck the post.

He continued to drive City on with forward, direct runs, wonderful passing, a show of determination to change the game, and then an exceptional free-kick, where he used the same technique as the shot that hit the post, to this time tuck the ball inside the post for their first goal. At this stage, it was clear that we were looking at a player, despite his years, who was above the rest — a player who can influence and change the game.

It got me thinking about players who shine through as leaders on the pitch. What is it that they possess and convey that makes the difference and inspires those around them?

Leadership by example

De Bruyne exudes this. His determination to make something happen is infectious to the players around him. It’s a demonstration of: “I’ll show you guys what to do and how we need to run, pass, defend, play” — all via doing it himself. The competitive nature of the individual and collective team around him, seeing this, will make them want to do the same or more; it lifts their desire to reach a higher standard.

This leadership trait may not be a conscious thought — it can be subconscious, an inner, in-built drive and sense of determination to achieve. Where that trait comes from, and whether it’s something that can be taught, is questionable. It is something that great leaders will have developed through childhood, playing in the parks, streets, fields, and youth football pitches. Added to that is seeing competitors, mentors, heroes show the same attributes — and adding that mentality to their own personality as a player.

Leadership through presence

Think of Virgil Van Dijk of Liverpool and Holland. The man is a towering athletic figure — the bedrock and anchor of those teams. He exudes confidence and strength. He’s calm, collected, and gives his teams an assurance that “we’ve got this.” His teammates know that they are secure with him at their back — and also that his world-class level is the standard they need to perform at, or at least aspire to.

Leadership through vocal motivation

The famous Roy Keane of Manchester United and Ireland was a fearless leader — a warrior in centre midfield. You had better be putting in a full shift with Roy in the team, or you would hear from him loud and clear. Another leader who led by example with fierce determination — running, tackling, passing. His intensity inspired those around him to lift their performances.

I saw Roy play for Ireland versus England in an U21 international when he was still at Nottingham Forest as a youngster. He ran the game and stood out a mile — a world-class player in the making.

Not everyone has the trait of motivating others through their verbal communications. I know as a player, and often captain, I was a little quiet off the pitch — but once I crossed the white line, it helped me to be vocal with encouragement to teammates, with shouts of “well played,” “brilliant,” or “c’mon” if needed depending on the action. Motivating others helps to inspire your own game too.

Leadership through experience

Quite often you’ll see the captain’s armband worn by a player of stature, gained through their exceptional experience and achievement in the game. Ronaldo or Messi are examples of this. They may not be the most vocal, but they convey a standard that teammates must live up to. If you see this level of player determined to win, then who are you to not try and support them and those around you by working extra hard to achieve?

In summary

Whether you are a captain, a senior player, or a young junior player, everyone can show leadership in some form. De Bruyne’s ‘by example’ is one to strive for — and action through your determination on the pitch. Do this consistently, and teammates and coaches will love you being part of their team. Add vocal motivation and encouragement to teammates around you on the pitch — this will help them and you, as it builds camaraderie and a wolf-pack mentality. You are in this together — help drive each other on.

One2Pro:

The use of video with a coach review is fantastic for honing skills and performance. In our One2Pro online coaching app, "Techniques of the Stars" are broken down step-by-step for players to follow and practice.

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Be the One!

Aaron Tighe

Founder, One2Pro