Under 10 Football Guide
Under 10 is the new entry point for 7v7 football under the 2026/27 Future Fit pathway. Players step up from 5v5 onto a bigger pitch and start to develop small-group tactics and decision-making.
From 2026/27, U10 is the new entry point for 7v7 (previously U9 played 7v7). Format and ball size are unchanged for U10s.
U10 Overview
Player Development Focus
From 2026/27, U10 is the entry point for 7v7 football. The focus is on acquiring new skills, decision-making, and small-group tactics. Positional discipline is still light, but teamwork and understanding of roles begin to develop. Trophies can be awarded to winners and results of mini-events published, helping U10s learn about winning and losing in a fun environment.
Game Information & Rules
Equipment & Safety
- Shin pads: Mandatory and must be fully covered by knee-high socks.
- Footwear: Appropriate footwear is required. No metal studs on artificial grass pitches (3G/4G/5G). Moulded studs or astro football boots are recommended.
- Clothing: For matches, players will wear the official team kit (shirt, shorts, socks). Goalkeepers must wear a different coloured kit for clear identification. For training, appropriate sportswear is acceptable. In adverse weather, players may layer appropriately, but hooded tops are not permitted during matches.
- Jewellery/watches: For safety/FA rules, all items of jewellery, including watches and earrings, must be removed before a match. Taping or covering jewellery is not an acceptable alternative.
Laws of the Game / Offside Rules
- No offside rule at U10.
- Referees are encouraged to guide learning through positive coaching.
Substitutions
Roll-off/roll-on substitutions permitted at any time with referee permission. Players who have been substituted may re-join.
Playing Time & Competition Limits
U10 players may play up to 60 minutes in a day during training or friendlies. Maximum permitted in competition: 90 minutes in a single day.
Competition Structure & Philosophy
Matches are typically part of development leagues with no published tables. Up to four weeks of trophy events, three times a season.
Disclaimer
The information provided in these templates is based on The FA's published guidelines for youth and adult football in England. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, rules and regulations may vary by county FA, league, or competition. Coaches and clubs should always check with their league or governing body for the most up-to-date and applicable rules.
These resources are provided by tactico for guidance and educational purposes only.
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