Coaching

The dead of winter marks the offseason for most soccer players in America, but that doesn’t mean the time for setting goals and striving for improvement is at an end. Between the end of one season and the next preseason marks an important period for reflection, planning and taking the first steps towards a memorable new year. 

Building on advice from some of the world’s top managers, we look at seven different areas you can focus on during the offseason to take yourself and your club to the next level.   

Mexican international Hugo Sánchez held records only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have surpassed in recent years. One of Real Madrid’s best strikers of all-time, Sánchez was also key for Los Blancos when it came to playing El Clásico.

With El Clásico looming on the horizon, it's time to remember one of the most successful players to ever take part in Spain’s — and arguably the world’s — biggest clash.

Have you ever wondered how soccer positions work, how soccer position numbers are traditionally assigned or how the roles and responsibilities of each position are defined? Ever considered the difference between a full-back and a wing-back? Well, you are in luck: The18 introduces you to the ultimate guide to understanding soccer positions.

First things first: let’s take a look at where the most common positions play on the field.