FA introduces 3v3 format for under-7s to reshape English football development
England's Football Association has replaced 5v5 with 3v3 for under-7s this season, citing research on ball touches and engagement, though coaches raise concerns about logistics and dominant players.
The Football Association has introduced a 3v3 format for under-7s in England this season, replacing the 5v5 game that had previously served as the youngest children's introduction to football. The change follows two years of research by the FA alongside Liverpool John Moores University, which analysed more than 400 games from under-6 to under-14 level. The format removes goalkeepers and referees, with the aim of giving each child more touches of the ball, more decisions to make and more physical activity.
The change arrives after Thomas Tuchel, the England manager, suggested following this summer's World Cup defeat by Argentina that ball possession may not come as naturally to England as to Spain, Argentina or Brazil. John Folwell, the FA's head of grassroots coach development, said the research shows players with more touches are more engaged, and that without goalkeepers or substitutes everyone stays involved rather than watching from the sidelines.
Coaches at Collingham FC in Nottinghamshire, visited by BBC Breakfast, described practical challenges. Under-7s coach Michael Bland pointed to running three pitches at once and trying to supervise nine children if a parent is unavailable, as well as teaching safe tackling under self-officiating. Mick Goodwin, a youth coach since the 1990s, worried that one dominant player could monopolise the ball while less confident teammates go untouched, and said the concept needs refinement.
The FA argues the lack of goalkeepers will not harm their development, since the format lasts only 12 months before 5v5 returns at under-8 level. Folwell said players still learn blocking and positioning, and cited England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton as an example of someone who played outfield for a long time. The FA also noted that 3v3 at under-7 level is already used in Germany, the Netherlands and Norway.
Among children and parents at Collingham, reaction was largely positive. One child noted the open goals make scoring easier, another said fewer opponents make dribbling simpler, and parent Dean said his son is now learning to pass, block and defend rather than simply standing in goal. Parent Hannah said her son, who has an older brother, has needed time to adapt. Folwell acknowledged implementation takes time but said those who experience the format tend to become converts.
