Why Are Football Teams Lacking Leaders, and What Can Be Done About It?

Why Are Football Teams Lacking Leaders, and What Can Be Done About It?

By Mark Wager 

The Premier League is renowned for showcasing world-class talent and breathtaking football. Yet beneath the surface lies a pressing issue that is hindering the full potential of teams across the league: a lack of leadership on the pitch.

Gone are the days when every team had a leader on the pitch like Roy Keane, Patrick Vieira, or John Terry to rally the squad, command respect, and change the tide of a game through sheer force of will. Today, too many teams crumble under pressure, lacking the decisive voices and personalities needed to steady the ship.

The response from many clubs has been to spend heavily on players perceived as “leaders.” While this approach might provide a temporary fix, it misses the point. Leadership isn’t something you buy—it’s something you cultivate. Just as technical skills are honed through hours on the training ground, leadership skills can and should be developed within the squad. This isn’t just a solution to an immediate problem; it’s an opportunity to unlock the hidden potential of players and create a team that thrives under any circumstances.

Building Leaders, Not Just Players

Leadership isn’t an innate gift possessed by a select few. It’s a skill—a learnable, teachable skill that can be cultivated with the right guidance. Just as clubs invest in coaching to improve passing, shooting, or fitness, they can and should invest in leadership development.

Developing leadership on the pitch starts with creating opportunities for players to take responsibility and make decisions. Training sessions can include scenarios where players must solve problems under pressure or communicate effectively to achieve a goal. By replicating high-stakes moments in a controlled environment, players can practice leading without the fear of real-world consequences.

It’s also important to recognise that leadership comes in many forms. Not every leader is a vocal organiser or an emotional motivator. Some lead by example, through their work ethic, composure, or tactical intelligence. Coaches need to identify these different types of leaders within their squads and nurture their growth.

Equally critical is the culture within the team. Leadership flourishes in an environment where players feel empowered to step up and where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities rather than failures. Managers play a key role in setting this tone, leading by example and fostering trust and mutual respect throughout the squad.

Leadership as a Catalyst for Growth

One of the most misunderstood aspects of leadership in football is the idea that it’s purely about helping others. While leadership is certainly about influencing and inspiring teammates, it also has a profound impact on the individual.

When a player is given the chance to lead, they are often pushed out of their comfort zone. They’re required to see the game differently, think strategically, and shoulder responsibility beyond their individual performance. This process can be transformative, turning a good player into a great one and a great one into an exceptional talent.

A perfect example of this is Jack Grealish during his time at Aston Villa. When Dean Smith took over as manager, Grealish was undoubtedly a talented player, but he wasn’t an obvious candidate for the captain’s armband. Smith, however, saw something in Grealish—potential that went beyond his technical ability. By giving him the captaincy, Smith handed him responsibility and trust, challenging him to grow not just as a player but as a leader.

The result was extraordinary. The added responsibility elevated Grealish’s game to new heights. He became the focal point of the team, leading by example and inspiring those around him. His performances didn’t just help Aston Villa survive in the Premier League—they turned him into one of the most sought-after players in English football. In 2021, Grealish made history as the most expensive English player ever, transferring to Manchester City for £100 million.

This transformation wasn’t just about skill—it was about leadership. By embracing his role as captain, Grealish unlocked a level of performance that might otherwise have remained untapped. His story is a powerful reminder of how developing leadership qualities can unleash hidden potential in players.

Unlocking Untapped Potential

When leadership is developed alongside technical and tactical skills, the impact can be transformative. Players not only become better decision-makers on the pitch but also grow in confidence, resilience, and emotional intelligence.

Take a moment to consider the untapped potential in your squad. How many players are capable of stepping up if given the chance? How many players like Jack Gealish are waiting for someone to believe in them and provide the tools they need to lead?

Leadership coaching can bridge the gap between potential and performance. It’s an opportunity to cultivate leaders who inspire their teammates, thrive under pressure, and take the team to the next level.

The Opportunity for Leadership Coaching in Football

Leadership is one of the most critical yet overlooked areas of modern football. While clubs spend millions on scouting and developing technical skills, leadership often remains an afterthought. This creates a unique opportunity for those willing to invest in developing this essential aspect of the game.

As a leadership and mindset coach, I’ve spent years helping individuals and teams unlock their potential. My experience spans industries, but the principles of leadership remain universal. Football teams can benefit immensely from coaching that focuses on building resilience, fostering communication, and empowering players to lead on and off the pitch.

If you’re a manager, coach, or club executive, I encourage you to think about the role leadership plays in your team’s success. Are you relying on external solutions, or are you cultivating leaders within your squad?

The next generation of football leaders isn’t out there waiting to be signed—they’re already on your training ground. All they need is the right guidance to unleash their potential

Contact me to explore how leadership coaching can transform your team. Together, we can create a culture where leadership thrives, performance soars, and every player has the chance to lead.

The issue of leadership in football isn’t just a challenge—it’s an opportunity. By prioritising leadership development, clubs can achieve lasting success and build teams that excel under any circumstances. It’s time to stop searching for leaders and start creating them.