Owing its name to the legendary Dutch soccer player, Johan Cruyff. During the 1974 FIFA World Cup, Cruyff astounded the world with his ability to execute sudden turns and changes of direction with remarkable finesse. His signature move, now widely known as the Cruyff turn, became an integral part of his playing style and a testament to his creativity and technical prowess.
Step 1: Explain to your child that they should approach a defender at a moderate pace with the ball under control, using their preferred foot.
Step 2: Show them how to plant their non-kicking foot next to the ball as if preparing to pass or shoot, slightly angling their body in the desired direction.
Step 3: With a sudden motion, explain to them how by using the inside of their kicking foot to drag the ball behind their standing leg, they will be able to shift their body weight onto their non-kicking foot.
Step 4: As the ball moves behind their standing leg, they should swiftly pivot on their non-kicking foot, and face the opposite direction.
Step 5: With the defender wrong-footed, your child can now accelerate away with the ball, leaving them in the dust.
Remind your child to practice the Cruyff turn repetitively to develop muscle memory and enhance their execution, speed, and fluidity. Now your child can go and embrace the legacy of Johan Cruyff, unlocking the secrets of this remarkable move in their own journey.
If your child is interested in learning more skills that they can use on the pitch then download our Family FC App so you can have access to a range of coaching courses tailored to different ages and abilities.
