DEVELOPING

TRANSITIONAL
PLAY

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DEVELOPING
TRANSITIONAL
PLAY

A 100 page book looking in to transition play

how it is trained within elite clubs and what
sessions they use day to day to dominate the
offensive and defensive transition. Elite examples
are included with Elite detail to ensure understanding
is not an issue for any coach.

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 Copyright © 2020 TheFootballCoach.Net

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or

transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other
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noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the
publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions Coordinator,” at the address below.

ISBN: 978-1-6780-8422-6 (Paperback)

Any references to historical events, real people, or real places are used ctitiously. Names,
characters, and places are products of the author’s imagination.

Front cover image by TheFootballCoach.

Book design by TheFootballCoach.

Printed by FootballCoaching, Ltd., in the United Kingdom.

First printing edition 2021.

London,
United Kingdom

www.Thefootballcoach.net

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BOOK CONTENTS
DEVELOPING TRANSITIONAL PLAY

What is a Transition?…………………………….…….……..……………..….……………1

Transition - A Mental Game……….………………………………….………………….…3

The Challenges Of Transition……………………………..……….………..………..……4

Session Plans………………………………..……………………….………………………..5

High Pressing 6v6…………..…………..……………….……….………………………5

12 Player Lane Game…………….…….……………….……….………………………8

Breaking On a Regain…..….………………………….……….………………………11

Boxed Transition Game…………………….………….……….………………………14

Three Team Transition Game………………………….…….….………………………17

Transition Pairs Game……….…..…………………….…….….………………………20

Press The Transition…………..……………………….…….….………………………23

Reacting to The Switch.……………………………….…….….………………………26

Acting Upon a Regain…………..…………………….…….….………………………29

8v8 Break-Out Game………………………………….…….….………………………32

8v8 Central Transition Game………………………….…….….………………………35

Overloading The 2v2……..……………..…………….…….….………………………38

Three Team Transitions….…..…..…………………….…….….………………………41

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BOOK CONTENTS
DEVELOPING TRANSITIONAL PLAY

Four Lines of Progress…………..…………..…….…….….………………………44

Breaking The Opponents Duo.……………..…….…….….………………………47

Breaking Out The Block…….………..……..…….…….….………………………50

Dominate on The Switch……..……………..…….…….….………………………53

4v4+1 Pressing Game…………..…………..…….…….….………………………56

8v8 Transition Game…………..……………..…….…….….………………………59

Four Goal Transition Game.…..……………..…….…….….………………………62

Klopp Counter-Pressing……………………..…….…….….………………………65

Guardiola 6+2v3 Rondo……….……………..…….…….….……………..………68

Guardiola 7v2 Rondo……….………………..…….…….….…………..…………71

Traditional Transition………….….…………..…….…….….………………..……74

4v4+3 Transitional Rondo………….….……..…….…….….…………….………77

5v3 Switching Play………..……….……..……..….…….….………………..……80

Leipzig Transnational Rondo.……………….…….…….….……………………..83

Leipzig Transnational Game.……………….….….…….….……………………..86

Leipzig Transnational SSG.…………….…….…….…….….……………………..89

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INTRODUCTION/ WHAT IS THE TRANSITION?

WHAT IS A TRANSITION?

Over the last 10 to 15 years the word ‘transition’ has become more and
more apparent in football coaching terminology. The ‘transition’ has
always existed but it has been more clearly de ned and spoken of in
recent times.
The transition is e ectively where a team goes from in possession to
out of possession or visa-versa. The o ensive transition is where a team
goes from out of possession to in possession, whilst the defensive
transition is where a team goes from having possession of the ball to not
having possession of the ball.
Many coaches in world football have discussed the transition and its
importance within the game. Coaches such as Guardiola and Klopp have
spoken about how the transition element is the most important part of the
game for players and teams, and these moments create the most
opportunity to be successful both in and out of possession.
The book will continue to try and develop further understanding of
the transition both o ensively and defensively and how they can be used
to maximize success both with and without the ball in games.

In Possession

Attacking Defensive
Transition Transition

Out of
Possession

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INTRODUCTION/ WHAT IS THE TRANSITION?

WHAT IS A TRANSITION?

As previously mentioned the transition is de ned as the short period when

a team regains the ball, or loses the ball.

In more recent years we have seen teams at the elite level of the game,
really look to control this element of the game, this control has allowed
them to expose the opposition in moments where they lack organisation
and understanding.
Teams are now using these moments to gain a competitive
advantage both in and out of possession. The defensive transition has
been used extensively by coaches, this moment poses a great risk to
teams bu also a great opportunity if used to your advantage. This is the
moment where we as a team lose possession and the opponent regains it.
If we are able to in uence this moment with structure and control, we
might be able to win the ball straight back from the opponent.
This has distinct opportunities and advantages. It prevents the
opponent attacking us when we might not be setup ready to defend. Often
when the defensive transition occurs. A team is still in a ‘In possession’
shape, where there are large spaces between the players. If we are able to
react quickly and apply pressure to the opponent and win the ball back,
that lack of organization behind the ball might not exploited. It also means
that if we do win the ball back quickly, the opponent might also be in
chaos as players look to make movements away from the ball to penetrate
space and take up ‘in possession’ positions, this chaotic moment can be
controlled and exploited.
This same approach exists during the attacking transition, this
moment of the game provides a natural opportunity to attack and exploit
the moment in their moment of weakness. During the attacking transition
the opponent is often in a wide shape, looking to make the pitch long and
wide in an attempt to stretch the game. If our team win the ball back
during this moment, there will naturally be large gaps in the opposition
shape that we will hopefully be able to exploit.
However being dominant of both transitions is not just an attacking
method, but also a defensive method. For teams who aren’t the best at
sitting in blocks and defending deep, counter-pressing the transition o ers

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 INTRODUCTION/ WHAT IS THE TRANSITION?

WHAT IS A TRANSITION?

A di erent approach to defending, an approach where the winner is

usually the quickest thinker, not the strongest physically. This diversi es
the approach to defending and gives opportunities to teams who are less
physically dominant, to be dominant in their defensive actions.

A Mental Game
Pressing is closely linked to the transition because it allows for pressure to
be applied to a team during the defensive transition. However the mental
aspect of performing in the transition can not be over-exaggerated. The
transition moment of the game can last at most a handful of seconds.
However, the team (or individual) that is able to react to the transition
occurring rst will ultimately have the most in uence on the game. When
possession changes hands, individuals will be challenged to apply
pressure quickly, the di erence between reacting in half a second and two
second will have signi cantly di erent outcomes.
Whenever we speak around the mental side of the game, we have to
think about what situations and scenarios can in uence mental
performance during a game and training. Some of the biggest challenges
that players face on the mental side of the game in transition are fatigue,
understanding and concentration.
During the game are players experience high levels of fatigue, which
is natural because of the physical challenge the game provides. However,
we must challenge ourself to understand the consequence of fatigue on
transition. When players become fatigued, they naturally begin to make
more delayed decisions, this comes from a lack of alertness. This includes
a more delayed response to triggers and situations. For example if a player
makes a heavy touch and loses control of the ball temporarily, a fatigued
opponent might not make a clear decision quick enough to win
possession back.
There is also a knock on a ect on concentration when players
become fatigued. This means late in games we might see players struggle
to manage with the stress’s applied to them by the opponent and the
game situation, this leads to them becoming distracted by moment of the
game that would previously seem automated and conscious.
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 INTRODUCTION/ WHAT IS THE TRANSITION?

WHAT IS A TRANSITION?

Naturally one of the most important factors to a players mental ability to

deal with transition is their understanding. When a coaches instructions in
training are not clear or consistent, players can become confused and
unsure with what is required from them in di erent situations. This quantity
of doubt can be catastrophic to a players ability to perform in either
transition. However with e ective use of this book, dominating the
transition is more achievable for coaches and players.

Challenges
For players and coaches, creating a team who are dominant in transition
will naturally be a challenge. It is something we must be thinking about at
all times, when we are in possession what are the risks if we lose it? If we
aren’t in possession where are the opportunities? This mindset will be at
the heart of how we can be e ective in transition as individuals and as a
group.
Like most things in sport, developing this behavior is di cult but it
can be achieved if a speci c set of rules or behaviors are maintained. It is
important that coaches are always coaching transition both in and out of
possession, regardless of the subject or topic of the session, transition
should always exist within it.
For example training sessions that are closed, and do not o er
transition, create a one dimensional context for players that is false. If a
player is in a nishing practice and they run around a cone, receive a ball
and nishing, this has little correlation or context to the real game. That
practice can easily be modi ed to create a more realistic and transitional
element. For example, if the player receives possession on the edge of the
box, and the player is pressed by a defender, if the striker doesn’t score
the defender receives a ball and try to break-out. This creates a far more
realistic and challenging environment for players to compete in.

We hope that this book provides you with all the ideas and information
that is needed for you to improve transitional play within your individuals
and your players.

TheFootballCoach

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HIGH PRESSING 6V6

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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TRANSITION PRACTICES / HIGH PRESSING 6V6

Delivering high pressing sessions to players in a 6v6, with

opportunities to win possession and score on the counter-
attack

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a simple practice to setup that involves a 4v4 in the central area
with four outside players (+2GK’s). The idea is very simple, the goalkeeper
plays into the reds, who then look to play forward. However they are
instantly pressed by the blues who look to lock them in their half. If they’re
successful the challenge is to see if they’re able to win the ball high and
score. As the game becomes more uid it is likely we will see more and
more natural transition. It is important that our players look to be direct
and aggressive in the press and the transition, the quicker our players are
able to recognise the transition and act, the more likely we are to score.
Can we challenge the pressing team to isolate the opponent and prevent
them from playing into the wide area.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / HIGH PRESSING 6V6

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 6 30 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 25X20 16

COACHING POINTS

1. Can the rst player apply pressure around the ball and prevent the
opponent from playing forward, if they can win the ball this is the
perfect moment, but its even more important they don’t get beat.
2. Can the following players look to block passing lanes, and apply more
pressure around the ball. As the blue player with the arrow shows, a
player can apply pressure to the ball whilst also blocking a passing
lane.
3. On the transition can we look to play forward early and follow our
pass, look to exploit the opponent in their moment of weakness and
optimize any opportunity they may have given us.

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12 PLAYER LANE GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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TRANSITION PRACTICES / 12 PLAYER LANE GAME

Dominating the opponent during the transition with quick

attacking play, that allows us to create goal-scoring
opportunities.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a 4v4v4 practice with ve lanes detailed throughout the practice.

The three teams are split into teams of four, the greens attack the blues, in
a 4v4 situation, the team out of possession can move freely as they like,
whilst the team in possession must occupy four of the ve lanes. The
greens look to score, whilst the blues look to win the ball, once the blues
win the ball they break out and attack the reds in a quick transition
element of the game. If the greens score, they receive the ball for a second
time and instantly look to attack the reds at the top end. This practice
continues in a cycle that allows the practice to be continual, transitional
and purposeful for players. The lack of depth to the practice means that
teams need to react quickly to the transitions that occur.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / 12 PLAYER LANE GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

300 SECS 60 SECS 6 36 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 30X30 14

COACHING POINTS

1. Can our players recognise how to break quickly when regaining the
ball, the practice will likely see possession switch hands quickly, the
team that are most e ective with the ball, will have the greatest
in uence on the game.
2. Can we look for triggers to win possession back, does the opponent
make a poor pass, a bad touch or become isolated with a spare lane
between them as shown in the second image.
3. In possession can we encourage our players to play forward quickly
and early, the rules can even be manipulated to restrict the practice to
no backward passes to increase the transitions that occur within the
game and the directness of the practice.

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BREAKING ON A REGAIN

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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TRANSITION PRACTICES / BREAKING ON A RE-GRAIN

Dominating the finishing phase before instantly reacting to

deal with the counter-attack and defending the goal.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a practice we have included before, but this is one of our most
valued practice for coaching players during the transition. The practice
starts with the player to the left taking a shot on goal, this is followed by
their team mate on the right taking a touch and also shooting. Regardless
of the outcome, two blues will breakout from the bottom of the practice
and look to attack in a 2v2. Once this part of the practice breaks down, a
red looks to breakout from the top creating a 3v2 in favor of the reds. This
means the practice has gone from 2v0, 2v2 and now 3v2. The practice
continues with an additional two from the bottom end meaning it would
become a 3v4 practice. The practice continues until we are out of players
at both ends of the practice.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / BREAKING ON A RE-GAIN

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

UNTIL FINISH 60 SECS 30 MIN LIMIT 30 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 30X25 10+

COACHING POINTS

1. Can the players who breakout look to attack with a speed and a
dominance of the ball, this reaction to the transition will allow us to
bypass the opponent if they’re not quick to reaction.
2. Both the o ensive and defensive reaction to the transition are trained
within the practice, challenge players competitively to react quickest to
dominate their team mates and have the greatest in uence on the
practice
3. Remind players reacting to the transition doesn’t have to be a press, if
we can’t apply pressure are we able to de ect the opponent wide and
protect the goal. Denying the opponent the opportunity to score is as
important as winning the ball early and high.
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BOXED TRANSITION GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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TRANSITION PRACTICES / BOXED TRANSITION GAME

Understanding the importance of reacting quickly to prevent

the opponent scoring and winning the game. A method of
using counter-pressing to dominate the transition.

PRACTICE DESIGN

The reds look to keep possession with their overload of 5v4, they keep
possession trying to get the central player an opportunity to score. The
reds can make their way up and down the outside of the practice to try
and create angles to receive possession. Once the blues win possession
form the blues they can look to score instantly, however this is where the
reds must instantly react to the blues regain and look to prevent the blues
scoring. Once the reds regain possession they look to fall back into their
original shape on the outside of the practice with one player inside. This is
is a highly transitional and high intensity practice that should make
keeping possession di cult. The four outside goals can be set further
back from the practice to increase the challenge if needed.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / BOXED TRANSITION GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 5 25 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

4 25X25 9

COACHING POINTS

1. Timing - how quickly are our players able to react to the transition
occurring, are they able to in uence the game quickly by traveling
towards the ball and preventing the opponent scoring.
2. Are they able to become physical with the opponent, pressing isn’t a
passive component of the game it requires high-intensity physical
work, in addition at times it can require physical contact between
players to make life uncomfortable for the opponent.
3. When the reds are challenged to make their way away form the
practice back to the outside when regaining the ball, this can be the
most di cult transition to dominate, can they be calm enough with
possession of the ball to regain control.
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THREE TEAM TRANSITION

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / THREE TEAM TRANSITION

Dominating the transition element of the game with a group

of 10 players, understanding how each individual effects the
collective.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This game involves three teams of 10 +2 GK’s who are xed in goal. The
rst team (reds) attack the blues in an 10v11 situations. The reds look to
score past the blues, and if successful they get the ball back and go and
attack the greens. However, if the blues regain possession from the reds,
they look to instantly attack the greens at the opposite end. This game
continues end to end until the end of the time period. The pitch size can
vary from a full-size 11v11 to a reduced size pitch. The full-size pitch will
make the moment more realistic and speci c to the size. However, a
reduced size pitch will increase the quantity of transitions in the game but
this will come at a cost of the realism of the practice. Either way the
players will be exposed to both the attacking and defensive transition

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / THREE TEAM TRANSITION

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

600 SECS 60 SECS 5 55 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 FULL PITCH 31

COACHING POINTS

1. Opportunity - When we regain possession, during this transition are we

able to recognise if we are able to play forward quickly because the
opponent is disorganised
2. When we regain possession, are we able to increase the size of our
teams shape, for example if the ball is regained centrally, can our wide
players look to get high and wide. Whilst our attacking players look to
play high and stretch the game.
3. When we regain possession deep in our own half, under-pressure from
the opponent, can we encourage are players in possession to play
forward quickly, this might be a forward pass through the opponent
lines.
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TRANSITION PAIRS GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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TRANSITION PRACTICES / TRANSITION PAIR GAME

Working collectively in pairs to expose players to both the

defensive and offensive transition, during high-intensity
strength based work.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a fairly simple 2v2v2 practice, in our example the reds attack the
blues in a 2v2. As soon as this breaks down the greens break out from the
right side of the practice, this will be against the team who lose the 2v2.
For example if the reds miss their shot on goal, the blues will now defend
against the greens. This practice continues in its cycle for the duration of
the practice. When one end becomes unmanned, the team who lose
possession transition to defend against the team from the opposite end.
The area remains quite tight to ensure that the transitions are always
accountable, sometimes if we leave too much space in the practice, the
players are able to react late to the transition and still have an in uence on
the game.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / TRANSITION PAIR GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 5 25 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 22X15 8

COACHING POINTS

1. Can we play forward quickly to try and expose the space behind the
team who have just lost possession, because of where the opponent
has likely lost possession (close to our goal) in creates a risk/reward
situation, can we play in-behind the opponent and expose their poor
defensive situation.
2. When we transition from attack to defense, we are likely in a high and
di cult situation because of the space behind us, if we are able to
react quickly, can we apply pressure to the ball ti prevent the opponent
playing forward and increasing our opportunity to win possession back
and score.

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PRESS THE TRANSITION

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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TRANSITION PRACTICES / PRESS THE TRANSITION

High-Intensity pressing to win the ball quickly and efficiently

on the transition, Focusing intently on the defensive
transition.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a 9v5 possession practice, where players will get the opportunity to
work hard to try and keep possession whilst under pressure on the regain
of possession, whilst being challenged to play forward. When the blues
gain possession back from the reds, the reds are challenged instantly to
win the ball back from the blues with an overload of 9v5. Within this
practice we should constantly see control from the reds. The practice can
be adapted to create a 7v7 where the transitional element will naturally
increase, however with this 9v5 we should see an increased frenzy to win
possession back when it is given away (with a numerical advantage). The
practice should take place in a 30x20 yard space.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / PRESS THE TRANSITION

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

300 SECS 60 SECS 5 30 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 30X20 14

COACHING POINTS

1. In the example shown in the image, the reds gain possession and the
blues press straight away, they have ve players and can decide how
they decide to press. Do they look to overload with all ve or hold
some sort of defensive balance?
2. The central red is also challenged to make in uence on the game
during the regain of possession. Can the red loo to play between the
lines of the blue press and receive possession, If they’re able to
receive possession can they play forward to the opposite side
3. For the reds, when they lose possession, how quickly can they
in uence the game. Are they able to apply pressure quickly

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REACTING TO THE SWITCH

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /REACTING TO THE SWITCH

Training players to be capable of recognising the switch of

play and then being able to act on it.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a slightly more complex practice where an 8v8 occurs in the top
part of the practice and the players compete to maintain possession and
make ve passes. Once the successful team has made their ve passes,
they can look to play in to the greens and score. However this has
transition based challenges for both sides. The side in possession must
look to transition into the other half and attack quickly as the greens can’t
score. However, the team out of possession must react quickly to protect
the goal and get pressure around the ball. If they’re intelligent to remember
the greens can’t score, they can look to create a frenzy around the ball and
force the opponent to give them back possession of the ball.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / REACTING TO THE SWITCH

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 5 25 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 25X20 18

COACHING POINTS

1. Can the side in possession make quick direct runs and look to receive
in-behind, the importance of receiving in-behind is that it makes our
attack faster and limits the opponents opportunity to counter-press.
2. Ensure our players don’t forget to press on both sides of the practice,
with such a compact 8v8 in the rst half, we will likely see a huge
amount of transitions in the rst section. It is important that in these
moments that our players are comfortable pressing on the defensive
transition and playing under pressure in the o ensive transition.
3. Deny the opponent the opportunity to score, make sure players don’t
forget the purpose of the game in general, when we lose the ball do
everything to prevent the opponent scoring.
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ACTING UPON A REGAIN

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

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TRANSITION PRACTICES /ACTING UPON A REGAIN

Training players to understand what behaviours are needed

from both a defensive and offensive point of the game.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This session is setup to challenge players both in the o ensive and

defensive transition. The blues play out from the back in their three, once
they play out, the three central players breakout to create a 3v3. The idea
is for the blues to make two passes under pressure as quickly as they can
before playing into the top area where they have an overload of 3v2.
However the reds are looking to win the ball high and score. If the blues
put the ball into the other half, the other yellows can also press to create a
3v5 if they’re quick. It is important to recognise that transitions can occur
in both half’s both in the o ensive and defensive way. This means it
provides us as coaches with lots of opportunity to observe and coach,
whilst players have a lot of exposure to these moments.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / ACTING UPON A REGAIN

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 5 25 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

4 30X30 11

COACHING POINTS

1. In the rst half, if the reds regain the ball they need to understand the
importance of being direct and single-minded . The ball will be won
very hide up the pitch, so this means it is very important for us to
ensure the players look to nish before the opponent can react to the
loss of possession.
2. In the second part the reds must recognise their role, the players who
are playing closest to goal will need to apply pressure to delay and
deny the blues the opportunity to drive towards goal. As they do this
we will need to se pressure from the recovering reds, this delaying
tactic will allow pressure from multiple sides and increase our chance
of winning the ball back quickly.
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8v8 BREAK-OUT GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

 TRANSITION PRACTICES /8V8 BREAK-OUT GAME

A game providing variety and chaos to players, the chaos is

an effective way to challenge the players to fight it with
control.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This session is simple in design but also clever in its design. The players
compete in a 28x28 yard box, with a goal in all four corners. The blues in
this example just look to keep possession and then nish in any of the
goals they haven’t started by. The reds press and look to win possession
back. If the reds regain possession they can instantly score and take the
lead ( rst 5 seconds of a regain) once they’ve failed to score within ve
seconds of the regain, the same rules apply (they can’t score in the goal
closest to where they regained the ball). This will challenge players to react
quickly to both the defensive and o ensive transitions that will constantly
occur within the practice.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / 8V8 BREAK-OUT GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

300 SECS 60 SECS 4 24 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

4 28X28 16

COACHING POINTS

1. This game naturally creates Chaos because of how its designed, the
multi-directional 8v8 will make it di cult for players to ever have
control of the ball for long periods, meaning there is a constant
challenge to react to the change of possession.
2. When players regain possession, it is important they are able to think
clearly and drive towards the closest goal to score, with the best
chance to score within the rst ve seconds because of the rules
outlined and the tactical setup of football.
3. When the opposition wins the ball back in goal scoring areas, how do
our players react, do they look to put pressure on the ball or block the
goal, in real tight situations protecting the goal must be the key.
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KLOPP TRANSITION GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /KLOPP TRANSITION GAME

This is a world-class transition based session, challenging

players and coaches to react to a change in possession in
realistic and demanding situations.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a session used for counter-pressing and improving players ability to

perform in the transition moments. The practice see’s two sides play each
other in an 11v11 format. The reds attack the blues, but the blues front
three are set aside in green, this means that the front three are only
involved in possession, allowing the reds to have an overload of 11v8 in
possession. Once the blues regain possession they are back to 11v11 and
able to play forward. As soon as the blues regain possession the reds are
challenged to counter-press and win possession back to prevent the
opponent attacking. There is a twist on the practice that allows the coach
to drop a ball at any point in the practice and the play will transition to the
new ball forcing players to react to the new demands.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / KLOPP TRANSITION GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

600 SECS 60 SECS 4 44 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

4 2/3 PITCH 22

COACHING POINTS

1. When the second ball is dropped, how do players react to the

placement of the ball, is there opportunity to attack or defend, what
are the decisions and can they process the realistic and challenging
situation they are placed in.
2. When the blues regain possession they are instantly brought back in to
the game with an 11v11 situation. This means the reds must be
e ective at reacting quickly to transition and limiting the attacking play,
this will involve cutting passing lanes and forcing play backwards, the
situation demands either looking to attack on a regain or preventing
the opponent from attacking.

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8V8 CENTRAL TRANSITION

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /8V8 CENTRAL TRANSITION

A Central 4v4 that demands players to dominate within the

central space, can the keep possession or win possession
back quickly on a regain.

PRACTICE DESIGN

In this example the reds are about to regain possession and have control
of the ball, the reds look to keep the ball with an overload of 8v4 as the
blues can only defend with the central players to start with. However as
the session progresses the out of possession players on the outside will
be able to step In and apply pressure until the team in possession are able
to break the press and play to an outside player. This means if the side out
of possession are e ective and quick, they will actually have an overload
of 8v4. The consequence is if the team in possession are able to play
through the press, they will force the side out of possession to drop back
to a four and carry an 8v4 overload on the opponent, this will force our
players to be e ective and dynamic with the transition moment.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /8V8 CENTRAL TRANSITION

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 4 20 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 30X20 16

COACHING POINTS

1. When the defensive transition occurs and the side in possession lose
the ball, how quickly can the outside players come inside and
su ocate the opponent. There has to be detail to their chaos, can they
apply pressure and block passing lanes at the same time, making it
impossible for the side in possession to nd a pass through the
pressure.
2. When under pressure from the opponent, our players need to be able
to nd calm within the chaos of the opponents pressure. It is important
that we are able to ght chaos with control and nd the temperament
to play forward pressure breaking passes through the opponents
pressure.
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OVERLOADING THE 2V2

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

 TRANSITION PRACTICES / OVERLOADING THE 2V2

This is a standard 4v4, that involves specific actions from

players both in and out of possession, completing these
actions will improve our players in transition.

PRACTICE DESIGN

The practice shares a similar theme to other sessions, but focusing more
on individuality than group or team collective work. When the reds have
possession they are e ectively playing in a 4v2. However ,within this
practice the outside players are forced to press the ball and look to have
an in uence on the transition element of the game. This means that
although the practice will naturally be a 4v4, the central area can at times
be overloaded by the team out of possession, this means that in
possession our players must be more e ective in possession, creating
angles to play through the opponent and the con dence to move the ball
quickly to play around the press of the opponent. On the transition can
they prevent forward passes by being aggressive and demanding.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /OVERLOADING THE 2V2

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

180 SECS 60 SECS 4 16 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 20X20 8

COACHING POINTS

1. When the game becomes chaotic, and possession of the ball switches
constantly, we will get to a situation where teams struggle to get back
to the outside of the practice because they’re constantly transitioning.
If this happens, can we encourage a team to ght the chaos with
control and look to create angles to receive and quick passing to allow
the team in possession to open up space and dominate the 4v4
2. In the opposite moment, the chaotic defensive transition, can we
ensure that we maximize the intensity and the physicality in those
moments. The aggression and physicality is a tool that can make life
di cult for the opponent and encourage them to join the chaos instead
of combating the chaos.
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THREE TEAM TRANSITIONS

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES / THREE TEAM TRANSITIONS

This three team transition game will challenge players to

cognitively about what their role is both in the offensive and
defensive transition

PRACTICE DESIGN

There are three teams of ve within this practice, each team has a di erent
objective dependent on where they nd themselves. The reds (outside
team) look to keep possession with one of the central teams (blues) this
creates a 10v5. In this example the blues and reds combine against the
greens and look to score (as shown in the second image). However when
the greens gain possession, the team that give away possession are
forced to become the defensive side and apply pressure instantly. Whilst
the challenge for the side that regain possession is to drop in to the ve
outside slots that the reds hold in the above image. When a team regain
possession, the challenge has to be simple, can we be direct and
ambitious and look to score quickly.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /THREE TEAM TRANSITIONS

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 4 20 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 30X30 15

COACHING POINTS

1. On the regain of possession, can we encourage players to have one

quick thought. (Can I/We Score?) This has to be the mentality of our
players, when we regain possession the organization of the team out of
possession will likely be chaotic, this gives us a huge opportunity.
2. Out of possession, can we also challenge the thinking of our players, if
a central side give it away, are the team able to apply pressure and
su ocate the ball and win it back. If the outside team are the group
transitioning in to defend, can they prevent a goal being scored and
resort to emergency defending? It is unlikely they will be able to apply
pressure and counter-attack.

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FOUR LINES OF PROGRESS

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES / FOUR LINES OF PROGRESS

Understanding how to behave in the transition when the ball

is in-front and behind are two different skills, both skills are
trained with this.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This practice from the outset is an 8v8 practice where players look to pass
from one unit of four to the next unit of four, whilst one unit of four presses
and the other unit does the same from the opposite side. As we can see
the greens have possession and the four in-front are able to step out and
put pressure on the ball. However, this does leave space in-behind for the
green unit to receive. Once the next unit receives possession the four reds
can press from behind. When possession transfers from the greens to the
reds, the behaviours switch, meaning the greens can instantly apply
pressure and make life di cult for the team in possession. Pressing from
behind on the transition is a di erent challenge to that of pressing from the
front.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /FOUR LINES OF PROGRESS

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

300 SECS 60 SECS 4 24 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 28X28 16

COACHING POINTS

1. Pressing from behind does create a di erent challenge and di erent

skillset when looking to regain possession of the ball. The rst
challenge is to travel quickly to the player in possession and look to
get touch tight, this means tight enough to be able to hold the arm and
the shirt of the opponent, not allowing the individual to turn. Forcing
that player to play the way they’re facing will protect the space behind
us and force the team in possession to play backwards, and allowing
us to create more pressure around the ball. Once the rst player has
applied pressure the second and third player should apply pressure to
individuals nearby, whilst the front unit can apply pressure form the
front.
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BREAK THE OPPONENTS DUO

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /BREAK THE OPPONENTS DUO

The importance of dominating with a 2v2 Is shown within this

practice, how you can work with your team-mate to great
dominance and control is vital.

PRACTICE DESIGN

The practice is easy to setup and can be used with small groups, which
makes this session perfect for a small micro-session away from the main
group. The reds breakout to start the 2v2 against the blues, the reds have
one simple task, they’re looking to beat the blues in a 2v2 then pass in to
the greens. However the blues are looking to pinch possession from the
reds and dribble out of the practice at the end the reds came from. This
would constitute a point. If the reds are successful in breaking out against
the blues and into the greens, the greens will transition out and attack the
reds as soon as they receive possession from the reds. This means the
reds will need to react instantly to move from an o ensive to a defensive
moment.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /BREAK THE OPPONENTS DUO

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

180 SECS 60 SECS 5 20 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 30X30 6+

COACHING POINTS

1. The large spaces will create a physical challenge to the players that
might force and create error, this is not a problem but a natural
challenge to the game. Can the players still perform and deliver the
cognitive actions of transition play when they’ve been exposed to
physical stress. This will recreate the moments of the game that they
will experience during games.
2. Once the reds play in to the greens to switch from the o ensive to the
defensive element of the game, can we ensure that they take charge of
the game and dictate the games next moments. They should pass and
press instantly to look to win possession back. This see’s the reds
control the game through the transition.
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BREAKING OUT THE BLOCK

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /BREAKING OUT THE BLOCK

Tactical understanding is vital, how are we able to utilise the

transition to break-out from the deep block to attack the
opponent.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This game see’s the reds attacked by the blues. The blues have a free
space where the reds aren’t able to press them. But the reds do have an
overload further up the pitch, if the blues don’t push forward, the practice
is a 5v5 where the blues will need to push forwarded into the grid area, the
blues can only have one player in each zone at any one point, whilst the
reds can move as required. The blues look to apply pressure, su ocate the
play to limit transitional e ectiveness. Whilst this happens the reds are
challenged to set traps to pinch possession back from the blues and
exploit their high and dangerous attacking shape. This session o ers lots
of learning opportunities both in and out of possession for players of all
ages and abilities

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /BREAKING OUT THE BLOCK

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 5 25 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 45X20 10+

COACHING POINTS

1. The reds must remain compact within their shape, they’re looking to
counter-attack and to be able to counter-attack they must use the
transition well. When counter-attacking from a block, we must be able
to nd the holes in the opponent’s shape before they nd some
element of control.
2. When the blues are attacking the reds, transition must be in their mind
at all times. As they lock the opponent in and look to score, balance
behind the ball will prevent the counter-attack, this means that they will
be e ective at winning the ball back quickly, and high when they lose
possession of the ball. This creates an element of control both with
and without the ball.
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DOMINATE ON THE SWITCH

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /DOMINATE ON THE SWITCH

Playing within a simple 5v5, finding methods to play around

the high-press. Whilst changing our pressing players to use
the ball efficiently and quickly.

PRACTICE DESIGN

The blues play the reds in a ve against ve. The pitch is split into two
halves with goals set back to back. The challenge for the players in
possession is to keep the ball within the 3 with the use of the other two
players on the opposite side, if the reds win possession back they look to
score instantly. The blues plan is so switch to the other side and score,
however the reds must look to apply instant pressure to prevent this. If the
reds regain the ball, the reds have a few seconds to score as the blues
pressure y’s in from the outside of the practice and su ocates the ball
and prevents the reds scoring. The practice will become quite stop-start
but the transitions will occur constantly in the practice.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /DOMINATE ON THE SWITCH

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 5 25 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 40X20 10+

COACHING POINTS

1. As the rst image shows, the blues set the ball back to complete a
combination to open space between the reds, although in this moment
we would expect to see more pressure applied to the blues to prevent
the blues breaking in the opposite half. If the blues are able to break
into the opposite half it is likely they will score with the lack of pressure
on the ball
2. The blues must be aware of the defensive transition when in
possession, there shape must be big to keep possession, but it can’t
be excessively large with detached players, because this will have a
negative e ect on our ability to e ect the game without the ball.

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4v4+1 PRESSING GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /4v4+1 PRESSING GAME

This is a more common transition practice, involving a simple

4v4+1 to react quickly to the loss and regain if possession.

PRACTICE DESIGN

Pressing and the defensive transition are so intertwined, in this practice we

can see the team in possession have the central yellow player to create a
5v4. The reds look to keep possession and play through their shape, with
the player moving freely along their line on the outside, or anywhere if
they’re the yellow. However when the reds lose possession to the blues,
they have to instantly react and step in and apply pressure. The rst
thought is can we su ocate the ball and prevent any passes. Whilst the
blues on a regain must try to keep possession and try to move to the
outside of the practice. The yellow must also play a role in transition,
understanding how their movement can assist the side who regain
possession, their role is key in the success of possession,

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /4v4+1 PRESSING GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

180 SECS 60 SECS 6 4 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 25X25 9

COACHING POINTS

1. Working with the yellow is important here, often the neutral player gets
forgotten because they’re always in possession and never actually
experience the transition rst hand. They’re always in a receiving
position inside the practice, this means that when the ball switches
hand, can they create an angle to receive from the player who has won
possession.
2. On the regain can our players look to play through the pressure,
playing through the pressure will often break the pressure and allow for
an easier control of the ball. Once the chaos has been combatted
control will develop and this is the part of the game we are aiming for.

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8v8 TRANSITION GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /8v8 TRANSITION GAME

Developing the ability for players to appreciate and

understand the attacking overload, and the consequence of
playing against the overload

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a fantastic practice to develop improved transitional play. The blues

play the reds in an 8v8 practice, the side in possession are all together in
one half (blues). Whilst this happens the reds are split 4 and 4. The blues
just simply look to keep the ball in the 8v4, if the reds regain possession
they look to play across to the other side and join their team-mates whilst
pressure comes from 4 blues to create a 8v4 on the other side. However
this is the main progression and the session can be split as shown above
in to two halves with two balls and a 4v4 and a 4v4 to start with to build
the principles before progressing in to the above practice. This will be unto
to the coach depending on how con dent and advanced the players they
are working with are.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /8v8 TRANSITION GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

180 SECS 60 SECS 6 24 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 25X25 9

COACHING POINTS

1. On the right hand side the regain situation is shown, the pressure must
come from the quickest two blues, this is to limit the distance the
players must need to travel and the time the opponent has in
possession of the ball.
2. The rst image (to the left), shows how the reds out of possession
might look to apply pressure to the blues. In this example the reds
have stayed narrow and have looked to force the blues to play in a
compact area, this increases their opportunity to apply pressure and
win the ball back, being close together also allows for increased
communication and pressure.

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4 GOAL TRANSITION GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /4 GOAL TRANSITION GAME

Transition provides opportunity for attacking success if used

successfully, can we exploit the opponent here to complete
this task.

PRACTICE DESIGN

The practice in its simplest form is a 5v5 with four games. Each team has
two players at each end of the practice, with a player in each of the
quarters shown on the grid, and In the central zone is a 3v3. In our
example the reds start in possession and the blues look to win the ball
back. The side in possession are locked into their areas whilst the team
out of possession can move an overload speci c areas. As the example
shows the blues have made play predictable and stopped the switch, the
blues then apply pressure and stop the blues winning possession. The
idea is to be in a positive attacking shape ready for the o ensive transition,
if the blues are able to steal possession back, can they exploit the
opponent and score with their high attacking shape.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / 4 GOAL TRANSITION GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 6 30 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

4 30X30 10

COACHING POINTS

1. Dominating the o ensive transition is signi cantly easier when we are

able to dictate where we win possession back. In the example we have
shown, a trap has been set by the blues to win possession centrally
from the isolate mid eld player. Their positioning allows for a
successful transition and an increased opportunity to be successful in
possession.
2. When regaining possession in the central area, can teams be brave an
e ective in traveling forward. Players will need to recognise when to
run with the ball and when to pass, this will increase the speed of the
attack and increase the opportunity to expose the opponent.

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kLOPP COUNTER-PRESSING

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

 TRANSITION PRACTICES /KLOPP COUNTER-PRESSING

One of the Worlds greatest coaches, delivering one of the

most effective coaching sessions around to develop
transitional dominance

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a brilliant session when using nine players in a compact area. The
nine are split into three teams of three, the team who are out of possession
play against the other six. For example if the reds give possession away,
they will instantly press against the six who are in possession.
The challenge within this practice, like other three team practices, is
how can we create control within a practice of chaos. The chaos can be
an e ective method to dominate the defensive transition but can be a
hindrance to the o ensive transition as it increases our chances of giving
possession away. Depending on the session size, the opportunity to
successfully maintain possession will increase as the size increases.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / 4 GOAL TRANSITION GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

120 SECS 30 SECS 8 20.5 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 19X19 9

COACHING POINTS

1. The counter-pressing session links fundamentally to the transition

moment of the game, it means that we are always attacking the
opponent both with and without the ball, the transition is the moment
where we still attack to have success in possession.
2. Blocking passing lanes will also be important here in order to allow
more pressure to be applied around the ball.
3. The challenge in possession will be to make the space large and limit
the chance of the opponent counter-pressing and creating the
transition. This 6v3 can be the moment of calm within the chaos that
erupts within this game

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GUARDIOLA 6+2V3 RONDO

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /GUARDIOLA 6+2V3 RONDO

Developing the positional rondo designed by Pep Guardiola to

develop positional play and dominance of the attacking and
defensive transition

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a more complex positional rondo designed by Pep Guardiola. This

involves a 6+2v3, this rondo see’s the six red outside players combine with
the two blues players and look to keep possession, whilst the three greens
work tirelessly to win possession back. When the greens win possession
they look to combine with the reds against the blues + the red who gave
possession back, meaning the 6+2v3 still exists. This is a fast paced
practice where the transition doesn’t require instant pressing but cognitive
processing to be able to adjust to the new setup and role placement. The
space of the practice will dictate the amount of transitions that occur
within the practice.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / GUARDIOLA 6+2V3 RONDO

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 6 30 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 20X15 11

COACHING POINTS

1. When the greens win possession back from the reds, how they
transition out quickly will correlate with how successful they are with
the ball, they will need to play back out to the reds quickly to create a
dynamic and e ective transition to prevent the blues pressing and
winning the ball back.
2. The blues play a key role in in uencing the transition when the reds are
in possession. By making movements within the central area they will
stretch the practice and make it harder for the three defending in the
central area. Double movements will help create space and limit the
opportunity to get tight to them and apply pressure.

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GUARDIOLA 7V2 RONDO

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

 TRANSITION PRACTICES /GUARDIOLA 7V2 RONDO

An additional Guardiola rondo that is used to create

transitional play and high-intensity football both with and
without the ball

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a simple rondo, with some more complex detail behind it. The
players play within a 7v2 rondo, the reds press the blues and look to pinch
possession. However, if the reds win possession, they instantly join the
outside of the practice and the player who has given possession away
looks to press. This gives opportunity for individual responsibility of the
o ensive and defensive transition. When a player regains possession, they
have to be able to think quickly to nd their next pass knowing they’re
going to receive instant possession. The additional challenge is to the
adjoining pressing player, if the rst red receives possession, how quickly
can the second red transition into pressing what was his/her team mate.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / GUARDIOLA 7V2 RONDO

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

120 SECS 60 SECS 5 15 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 20X15 11

COACHING POINTS

1. Individual performance is more important than group performance

within this rondo practice, how does the player who receives
possession behave, do they just poke the ball away with no detail to
an outside player, or do they take control of the moment and behave
with composure to nd a progressive pass to the outside of the
practice. It is important at this point they are able to play away from
the pressure.
2. For he player who gives possession away, how do they react, are they
able to recover from their mistake instantly and apply pressure, or is
there a delayed response? The quicker the response the more e ective
the press.
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TRADITIONAL TRANSITION

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /TRADITIONAL TRANSITION

A more traditional transition session where players look to

move from zone-to-zone depending on who has control of
possession.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a simple and very traditional 5v5 transition rondo, where the ball
starts on the left side in a 5v3 situation, and the blues look to keep
possession for as long as they can, whilst the reds work overloaded in a
3v5 situation to stop them. If the reds win possession back they must look
to try and switch the ball out to the opposite side to then go and play 5v3
on that side. However once the reds regain possession, e ciency in the
transition from the blues could stop the reds being able to play across.
This is a very simple but e ective way to stop the reds from being able to
play forward, and is e ectively a very e ective way to be more e ective in
the transition.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / TRADITIONAL TRANSITION

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 5 25 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 30X15 10

COACHING POINTS

1. In this practice stopping the switch of play might be the moment that
shows e ectiveness in the transition like no other moment. If a team
are able to concede possession and win it back without the opponent
gaining control, it shows their dominance over the opponent and their
e ectiveness in the transition. If we are able to create this behavior
2. The second most challenging moment will be for the team who win
possession to be able to successfully switch possession from one side
to the other. In this moment can we try and encourage calm, as we’ve
previously mentioned. When the player steals possession from the
opponent are they able to nd a moment of calm within the chaos and
switch play.
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4V4+3 TRANSITION RONDO

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /4V4+3 TRANSITION RONDO

Within elite football coaching this exists as one of the most

popularly used transitional sessions, challenging players
understanding of both the offensive and defensive transition.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is a simple 4v4+3 practice where the side on the outside look to keep
the ball with the three neutral players (yellows) the position of the yellows
never moves. However if the reds lose possession of the ball they must
instantly transition inside and look to hunt for the ball as the blues
transition to the outside of the practice and look to keep hold of the ball,
this see’s a straight forward switch between the blues and reds when a
transition occurs. This is a very popular session that can be used in
multiple di erent pitch sizes to keep challenging the players with di erent
distances and angles. It is important to remember that the timing of the
reaction is the most signi cant moment of the practice, how quickly can
our players react to what is occurring around them.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES / 4V4+3 TRANSITION RONDO

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

180 SECS 60 SECS 5 20 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 25X20 11

COACHING POINTS

1. For the team who regain possession from the transition, nding the
best ‘out-ball’ will be the most important part of the o ensive
transition. How can they nd a pass that takes the pressure of them
and their team-mates. In order to do this they might need to look to the
yellows who naturally have a xed position on the outside of the
practice.
2. When losing they ball we must constantly be reminding our players
that our best opportunity to win the ball is in that rst 5 to 6 seconds,
in the frenzy stage of the transition, this is the moment where we are
able to win the ball back before the opponent creates a level of
structure and control within the game.
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LEIPZIG TRANSITION RONDO

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

 TRANSITION PRACTICES /LEIPZIG TRANSITION RONDO

This German rondo session is perfect for training the

transition element of the game and encouraging a counter-
pressing set of behaviours.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is very similar to other 4v4v4 transition practices and shouldn’t be

very di cult to deliver for any level of football coaching. The di erence to
this 4v4v4, is that although the game is simple 4 neutral players and the
team that loses possession transitions in the central area. The focus in
now on combining vertically to open space higher up the practice. This is
where in possession we now are looking to see vertical runs, as-well as
up, back and through passes as a method of preventing the transition and
exposing the opponent. This session has been used to success within
German football to develop some of the most aggressive and assertive
transition sides in Europe.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /LEIPZIG TRANSITION RONDO

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 5 25 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

0 235X15 12

COACHING POINTS

1. Concentrating on teams maintaining possession will be key, other wise

with the shape of the practice, it is likely we will experience many,
many transitions in a short space of time and the practice will almost
become ‘false ‘where players aren’t challenged with multiple stimulus’s
in the practice.
2. Methods of maintaining the ball through vertical lines, will naturally
involve lots of vertical movement. The challenge will be for players to
be comfortable running in-behind the opponent, stretching the practice
and creating space between the lines of the opponent. Once this has
been developed combinations through those vertical lines will be the
method of success.
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LEIPZIG TRANSITION GAME

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /LEIPZIG TRANSITION GAME

A task with slightly more complexity, that has been created

to try and a develop confidence and understanding in
realistic situation.

PRACTICE DESIGN

The vertical rondo has now progressed into a 17 player practice where the
players are challenged to play through the 4v4v4, before playing in to the
end player who try to combine quickly in the 3v2 before nishing. If the
team out of possession wins possession back their challenge in the
transition is to play through vertical lines quickly to nish in the two end
goals situated near the half-way line. The challenge within the transitional
focus, is to try and regain the ball and play through vertical lines quickly,
regardless of the end you are attacking. The compact practice will limit
opportunity to be successful on the ball. Players of lesser ability will also
look to switch wide and nd the spare player, within this practice we are
challenging players to play vertically through the lines.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /LEIPZIG TRANSITION GAME

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

240 SECS 60 SECS 6 30 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

3 40X22 17

COACHING POINTS

1. Playing through vertical lines is so important for the players in this

practice, can we challenge players to play into feet between lines and
then make forward runs beyond the opponent to challenge the
opponents willingness to match aggressive play from the transition.
2. When the side out of possession, in our example that is the blue team.
Win possession back, make sure they’re aware of what is expected
and what the challenge for them is. we are looking to play forward
quickly through the space behind and in to the goal behind, this
resembles a player looking to penetrate the opponent and play in to
the feet of a striker on the counter-attack. This behavior is a key
component to transitional dominance.
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LEIPZIG TRANSITION SSG

“A high-intensity and
counter- pressing
team will often make
more mistakes
because we attempt
more and perhaps
accomplish more”
Jurgen Klopp

Prepared exclusively for [email protected] Transaction: TFC20093

TRANSITION PRACTICES /LEIPZIG TRANSITION SSG

The task complexity max’s out in the next small sided game,
building on the detail of the last few sessions to create a task
that challenges players behaviours.

PRACTICE DESIGN

This is the most complex of our German counter-pressing and transition

practices. Within this game we can see a restricted space on the outside
of the pitch, where the wide area has been cut out and the options to play
wide have been restricted, this will make the game di cult and compact,
but will make the vertical pass key. This will challenge our players with a
high amount of opportunity and a high quantity of transition. We are
looking for our players to run into the space behind the opponent and
receive and score. The task is simple in setup but complex in its design.
How our players perform in here will likely have a high correlation with our
success in game based transitions.

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 TRANSITION PRACTICES /LEIPZIG TRANSITION SSG

WORKING RECOVERY BLOCKS TOTAL

600 SECS 60 SECS 4 44 MINS

GOALS SPACE PLAYERS

2 HALF PITCH 24

COACHING POINTS

1. The vertical pass has to be valued from both sides of the transition,
when we regain the ball on the o ensive transition cutting this pass out
is one of the most important components. However during the
defensive transition, stopping that forward pass is key as this is the
pass that can do most damage to us in the transition.
2. Don’t forget about goal scoring! Although for us as coaches this
session builds great opportunity to develop transitional play. The aim
for players can’t become blurred, can we look to get in-behind the
opponent and score as quickly as possible, when we don’t have the
ball ensure we are still attacking.

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