Soccer managers' latest source of inspiration? The rugby pitch - ESPN

ESPN

by Tom Hamilton

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Top soccer managers are turning to rugby for fresh insights, with leaders like Luis Enrique and Mikel Arteta adopting strategies inspired by how rugby coaches operate. Unlike traditional football coaching, which often involves intense sideline involvement, rugby coaches typically observe games from the stands, focusing on analysis rather than direct engagement. This approach has caught the attention of several top managers, who see its potential to enhance their own decision-making processes. For instance, Fabian Hürzeler, manager of Brighton & Hove Albion, was impressed by England’s rugby coach setup during a visit to their training camp. He noticed how the head coach maintained a detached perspective, analyzing the game from above and making strategic decisions based on this vantage point. Similarly, Luis Enrique of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has been experimenting with watching matches from the stands since September 2023. Enrique credits this method for improving his halftime talks, as it allows him to process real-time data more effectively. The trend isn’t without challenges. In some leagues, such as Spain’s La Liga, regulations require managers to remain on the sidelines during matches. However, Enrique and others have adapted by incorporating similar principles into their training sessions. For example, Enrique uses a elevated viewing platform at PSG’s Campus du Paris-Saint-Germain to oversee training, which he believes enhances his understanding of team dynamics and movement patterns. This shift reflects broader trends in sports analytics and the growing influence of data-driven strategies. Managers like Sam Allardyce have also embraced this approach historically, using tools like radios and delayed TV feeds to communicate with their teams during matches. These innovations aim to reduce emotional decision-making and provide a more objective, analytical perspective on gameplay. The integration of rugby-inspired tactics into football management highlights the evolving nature of sports strategies. By drawing insights from other sports, coaches are finding new ways to optimize their training methods and in-game decisions, potentially revolutionizing how football is coached and played. This trend not only challenges traditional norms but also underscores the importance of adaptability and innovation in modern sports leadership.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/20/2026