The next time you attend a live football match, try to see if you can catch players performing the rondo.
Its almost like a game of piggy in the middle.
The players in the drill with the ball must circulate possession as quickly as possible without the players pressing them getting a touch.
The aim of the players with the ball on the outside is to keep it away from those who are trying to press them and get a touch.
Its a short, quick exercise that keeps players blood flowing whilst also having a bit of fun.
Its even common to see managers join in with this exercise as a light-hearted touch.
Antonio Conte was seen in 2020 at Inter Milan before the Europa League Final, joining in and slide-tackling a player.
However, the rondo is an effective exercise that demonstrates a players ability to perform close control, the observable benefits of which can and should be seen in games.
The rondo is an exercise that warrants further exploration with regard to its in-game value.
In this tactical analysis and tactical theory piece, we examine the value of the training-ground exercise and how Manchester United have displayed the observable benefits under Michael Carrick tactics.
What Is The Value Of The Rondo?
Although the exercise places players in situations of numerical superiority, it also tests their ability to think quickly and devise solutions when they are closed down.
The tight areas mean that the rondos, though valuable to any player, are most likely suitable for defenders or midfielders tasked with getting their teams out of pressure.
Several unique variations of the rondo exercise exist, many of which have been explored and detailed by coach Kevin Martin here at Total Football Analysis.
Kevin previously explained the value of rondos in pre-season training for sides like Celtic and Real Madrid, for instance, and guided us through how to implement rondos in training sessions at any level.
Rondo image 2
See an example of a relatively common find the 10 rondo above.
edited Rondo 5
The Value Of Rondos: How Michael Carrick Applies The Principles At Manchester United 2025/2026 – Tactical Theory 3
One other variation, a double-pivot rondo, is disp
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