Wagner criticises outdated rules that hinder youth player development in Germany
RB Leipzig's academy manager David Wagner highlights the need for change in German youth football.
Photo by Sebastian Luna on Pexels
David Wagner, the academy manager at RB Leipzig, has expressed concerns about the current state of German football, stating that the country has "gone backwards" in recent years. He believes that significant changes are necessary to improve the situation. Wagner, who has returned to youth coaching after a decade, has been surprised by the restrictive rules he has encountered that hinder talent development in Germany.
One of Wagner's main criticisms is the rule that suspends a 15-year-old player for receiving a second yellow card, which he argues impedes their growth. He also highlights a regulation preventing players from participating in under-17 matches if they have played 50 per cent of games for the under-16s. These outdated rules, according to Wagner, do not align with the needs of youth football and require urgent reform.
Wagner points to the lack of competitive matches for young players in Germany compared to England, where under-19 players can have up to 50 games a season. He believes this discrepancy results in a significant difference in player development, with German players missing out on valuable competitive experience. Wagner is optimistic that recent changes, including the addition of more tournaments, could help address these issues.
Despite Leipzig's strong facilities, Wagner acknowledges the challenge of developing homegrown talent. The club has had success in signing and improving young players from elsewhere, but the goal remains to produce local talent who can make a lasting impact. Wagner is dedicated to changing the culture and structure of the academy to achieve this aim, with a focus on individual player development rather than team success.
Wagner remains committed to his role, stating that the academy's success is paramount. He is determined to implement changes and improve the situation for young players in Germany. With his experience and a clear vision for the future, Wagner is working tirelessly to create a better environment for talent development at RB Leipzig and beyond.
via Sky Sports