The maelstrom of tactical detail and technical excellence that the game has evolved into has been displaced by a new game; football piloted by pundits. Strategy and skill are still key, but alongside them lies standout athleticism from the players who have sought to change the game forever. 2024 could well bring a sea change, new age footballers who would be faster, stronger, and fitter than ever before combining mere brawn with stunning footwork to create a spectacle never seen before.
The Rise of the Complete Athlete
No longer do specific roles require single athletic qualities. In the current environment of modern football, players are required to not just be athletes who can run up and down 4G plastic from dawn til dusk with equal contributions in both the offensive & defensive phases. Gone are the days when full-backs were expected to be little more than overlapping centre-backs and forwards risked being marked down for their defensive diligence as much as anything. This has had the effect of players specializing in areas, but slowly we have seen some athletes who are now revealed as being the “complete athlete”, someone who is not just good at one thing or another physically that only a professional can be.
Sprinting into the Future
As such, speed is an important attribute in football and while the game evolves at an ever-increasing rate, the generation of players on show this season are a frightening glimpse into the future. Topping the list is French wonder kid Kylian Mbappé, whose burst of pace and top speed has taken on a mountain of reputation. And a turn at these speeds can be very uncomfortable for defenders who operate on the side lines which is why it so hard to stop him in full flight.
Mbappé is not alone. Alphonso Davie Holding a torch for the one and only Canadian to ever take over the football world with his explosive side runs, fueled by all-natural Usain Bolt sprint speed in addition to, stamina. Spanish wonderkid Ansu Fati is joined by Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, who both have the lightning pace to change a game in one swift turn of speed, adding even more variety to this rapidly-growing list of rapid forward players.
The Power Game
Soccer athleticism is far more than raw pace it includes pure power, strength, and aerial prowess. Norwegian goal machine Erling Haaland tops the pile in this domain. With his big body, good agility, and a hint of quickness he is a load for any defender to try to bring down. His physical presence, combined with his ability to hold up possession, win aerial duels, and finish a hat-trick with brutal power mark him out as the ultimate weapon in attack.
Another powerful forward, Romelu Lukaku, also remains hot. The raw power in his runs, combined with his regular ability to play as a pivot make him such a menace running towards or around the box. Further up in midfield, we have more players combining strength with technical grace Leon Goretzka, and Pogba displayed both using their physical presence to glide past challenges, control the speed of play, and just boss the game in the midfield. It highlights their primary attributes for the modern game and why power is so key in football, especially strength.
Engines of the Game
Modern football is played at breakneck speed, you need to have unquestionable stamina in the tank only to be able to take a battering of high-intensity play for ninety minutes. This is where your workhorse Ironmen come out and cover every blade of grass, setting the bar for the workload.
N’Golo Kanté epitomizes this type of player, despite his tiny height. He has been yanked back further down the field to partner back 7, but his supreme motor never diminishes, harrowing opponents with his endless pressing and winning the ball in places where no one but St. James himself can challenge for a tackle. The same can also be said for the remarkable Joshua Kimmich, who controlled games from the middle third with his passing precision, tactical intelligence, and incredible endurance. While they may not make the headlines, these players offer priceless contributions to team success.
Agility and Balance
While speed and strength often steal the spotlight, agility, and balance are equally crucial attributes for modern footballers. The ability to change direction quickly, weave through tight spaces, and maintain balance under pressure can be the difference between a successful dribble and losing possession.
Players like Neymar Jr. and Bernardo Silva exemplify this finesse. Their exceptional balance, coupled with quick feet and a low center of gravity, allows them to navigate crowded midfield with ease, leaving defenders grasping at the air. These players showcase the artistry and elegance that athleticism brings to the game.
The Need for a “Plaque Award”
While individual awards often focus on goals, assists, and other quantifiable metrics, there’s a growing need to recognize the importance of athleticism in football. A “Plaque Award,” presented annually to the player who embodies the pinnacle of athletic prowess, could be the answer.
This prestigious accolade would consider a combination of speed, strength, stamina, agility, and overall athletic performance, judged through a combination of data analysis and expert assessment. Such an award would not only honor the physical specimens of the game but also inspire young players to develop their all-round athletic abilities, further elevating the level of athleticism in the sport.
Football in 2024 stands at the cusp of an athletic revolution. Players are bigger, faster, and stronger than ever before, pushing the boundaries of human performance on the pitch. This new breed of athletes, with their multifaceted skill sets and exceptional physical attributes, is transforming the way the game is played, making it faster, more intense, and more demanding than ever. As we celebrate goals and tactical masterclasses, it’s equally important to recognize and appreciate the athletic marvels that grace the football pitch. The future of football belongs to the complete athlete, and 2024 promises to be a testament to their extraordinary talents.