Private football training: which children really need it
Parents often ask: “Should we get our child a private coach?” Sometimes it is exactly the right step, and sometimes it is money spent on something a good group would give anyway. Let us look at how one-to-one training differs from team sessions, who it helps and how to keep it from turning into pressure.
How one-to-one differs from a group
In a group the coach shares attention among all the children. That is normal and even useful: children learn to play as a team, pass, give way and react to teammates. But each child gets fewer touches of the ball and fewer personal tips.
In a private session all of the coach's time belongs to one child. More touches, more repetitions, feedback after every drill. That is why a specific skill — shooting, first touch, weaker foot, dribbling — improves noticeably faster.
Who really benefits
- A child who wants to progress faster. If they love football and the group is not enough, private sessions add that extra volume of work with the ball.
- When a specific skill needs work. Only one strong foot, losing the ball under pressure, fear of heading — the coach works on it directly and builds a plan.
- A shy child. Some children find it hard to join a noisy group straight away. One-to-one is a calm way to fall in love with football, build confidence and then move into a team.
- Before a trial. If a child is going to a trial at an academy or sports school, individual work helps with what scouts look at. More on the academy preparation page.
- Goalkeepers. Goalkeeping technique is largely built individually — we have a separate goalkeeper training programme.
When a private coach is not needed yet
If a child is 4–6 and just starting, what matters most is play, movement and enjoying the ball. At this age a good age-based group usually gives more than one-to-one sessions: children learn from each other and feed off the team. The same goes if football is still “one of many hobbies” — let them love the game first; volume can be added later.
One more honest point: private training does not replace a team. Football is a team game, and understanding teammates, finding space and passing can only be learned in a group.
How to combine it with a group
The most common and, in our view, the best scenario: the child attends a group regularly and uses private sessions as targeted support — once a week or a short block of sessions for a specific goal. The coach aligns the focus so the two formats complement each other rather than overload the child.
Watch how your child feels: if extra sessions leave them tired and less interested, slow down. Progress in children's football is built on joy, not on the number of hours. How to tell your child is improving — see our article on signs of progress.
How private training works with us
Sessions follow the Brazilian GINGA method: maximum work with the ball and game situations instead of dull repetition. After the first session the coach gives honest feedback — strengths, areas to grow and a plan.
Private sessions are run by Tony Correa, a former professional footballer from Brazil. They take place in Khimki; by arrangement the coach can come to your pitch. Sessions in English are possible — see football in English.
The price is 4,000 roubles per hour. Full terms are on the private training page and under prices.
Where to start
If you are not sure which format you need, start with a free trial session in a group: the coach will see your child and tell you honestly whether private sessions make sense. Leave a request on the trial session page — we will call back and find a group for your child's age.
Frequently asked questions
From what age does a private coach make sense?
There is no strict threshold, but for 4–6-year-olds a good age-based group is usually more useful: playing with peers gives more. Private sessions are more often needed once a child already loves football and wants to improve a specific skill or is preparing for a trial.
Can my child train privately and attend a group at the same time?
Yes, that is the most common option: the group is the foundation and private sessions are targeted support. The coach aligns the focus so the formats complement each other and do not overload the child.
How much does a private session cost?
A private session with Tony Correa costs 4,000 roubles per hour. Current terms are on the prices page.
Where do private sessions take place?
In Khimki. By arrangement the coach can come to your pitch — call +7 925 337-55-05 to discuss the details.