England Soccer Teams Prepare For 6-A-Side World Cup

14 players, most of whom are more used to playing with their mates on astroturf pitches, will mix together with former Premier League stars and one of the most legendary figures in the game, when the England 6-a-side football squad lands in Crete next weekend.

The England hopefuls, who are looking to be kings of the world head to Rethymno, to take part in the World’s most prestigious 6-a side-football tournament, looking to catch the eye of Ron Atkinson.

The former Manchester United boss, who managed more than 1000 games in his illustrious career, has come out of retirement to be the England team’s Director of Football.

He – together with experienced 6-a-side football coach Jamie Leggett – will look to navigate the England side through a tricky looking group that includes Argentina, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Uruguay.

The squad is in good shape, having won the Home Nations 6-a-side Championships this summer, and the Summer Series back in August.

Ahead of the World Cup in Crete, Hype Magazine caught up with England star Arjun Jung, who is set to make his debut for the Three Lions:

Tell us about yourself and what position you play?

“I’m born and raised in the UK, and currently am a semi-professional football. I spent four years playing football [soccer] out in America, before returning home to England. I play Centre Midfield or Full Back.”

What brought you to the world of football?

“I originally started playing football at about 4-5 years old on the streets, and continued playing on the streets until about 11/12, which was when I started taking it more seriously, and decided it was the career I wanted to pursue. I never imagined back then that I’d one day be representing my country, that being at any level.”

What is the importance of the smaller leagues as part of the development of the game?

“Smaller sided football is massive for the development of the game, as it develops players’ ability to be comfortable from the back, which the modern-day footballer has to be in order to meet the current demands of the game. It’s become apparent over recent years that the countries that traditionally spend more time on small-sides matches, Futsal for example, are the countries that have reaped the benefits in the 11-a-side game. I see it as no coincidence that players that are so technically gifted, usually have a rich past in small-sided competition.”

How do you see the game expanding globally?

“I think tournaments like the one in Crete this month will help. Last year saw the first ever 6-a-side World Cup held in Portugal, with Germany winning the inaugural Championship. They’ve built a unique stadium just for the 6-a-side World Cup in Crete, and with 40 teams competing, it can do the game no harm in terms of expansion. Around the world, small-sided football is a loved hobby. We see it played on all continents, whether it’s on pitches, mud, beaches or roads. The game deserves more recognition, and hopefully tournaments like the World Cup will raise its profile.”

What excites you most about the game?

“The ever-changing nature of small-sided football. It’s end-to-end, and concentration levels need to be high. The players are so talented, that if players switch off for even a second, they could be punished. Movement, first touches and decision-making are so key when playing.”

Having played in America, what do you make of football here?

“Football in America is a growing phenomenon, and it will continue to grow. Its attracted some big-name footballers, with the likes of Carlos Vela, Wayne Rooney, and Zlatan Ibrahimović making the move across the pond. Also, with David Beckham now launching his Miami team, football will no doubt continue to become more popular in the USA.”

Finally, where can we watch the tournament?

“All matches will be streamed live from Greece on www.soccafederation.com.”

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About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.