The Future of football: Insights from Alex Revell and Ryan Garry

As we look forward to the next decade in football, the landscape is ripe for transformation. With innovations like video assistant referees and the recent inclusion of Saudi Arabia as a World Cup host, the game is set for unprecedented changes. In this edition of the ‘Football in 10 Years’ series, we delve into the perspectives of **Alex Revell**, manager of League One Stevenage, and **Ryan Garry**, first-team coach at Norwich City.

Key Highlights

• Revell emphasizes the need for technology to enhance enjoyment without slowing the game.
• Garry warns about the sustainability of increased player demands and competitions.
• Both coaches stress the importance of maintaining human judgment amid rising AI influence.
• They advocate for a balance between analytics and the emotional aspects of the game.

Revell has successfully guided Stevenage into the play-off positions, despite operating on a tight budget. His journey has seen him net over 150 goals for clubs including Brighton and Cardiff City. On the other hand, Garry, who joined Norwich before the 2025-26 season, brings a wealth of experience from his time coaching the England Under-17 and Under-18 teams and a stint in Belgium.

When asked how football might evolve over the next ten years, Revell stated, “Football has core values that should remain intact. Technology should simplify the game, not complicate it. If we lose the emotional connection, fans might drift away. We’ve seen how some prefer EFL matches without VAR. I’m intrigued by the idea of managers having a challenge system for refereeing decisions, but it could also prolong the game unnecessarily.”

Garry added, “Players are stretched thin with numerous commitments. The Club World Cup has shown that, but I worry about sustainability. The best players will likely expand their personal support staff to manage their health amidst these demands.” He also foresees a rise in players creating their own content through media channels, reflecting a shift in football’s business model.

Discussing the role of technology and AI in football, Revell noted, “We utilize GPS trackers for injury prevention and game management. However, with limited staff, we can only scratch the surface of the data available. I’m curious to see how AI can provide deeper insights while also respecting human intuition in assessing player character.”

At Norwich, Garry mentioned their advanced training technology, including drone footage. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing player health over sheer performance metrics. Reflecting on his experience at Bournemouth, he noted how advancements have drastically changed player analysis and coaching methodologies.

In terms of tactical evolution, Revell remarked on the shift away from fixed formations. “Today’s players must be versatile, understanding various roles on the pitch. The focus is on controlling space rather than adhering strictly to traditional positions.” He highlighted Stevenage’s commitment to cultivating homegrown talent, aiming to develop players who can seamlessly transition into the first team.

Garry expressed his desire to prepare academy players for the long game: “The true test isn’t next week’s match but their readiness for the future. It’s essential to be aware of their learning preferences and adapt accordingly.” His time at Arsenal allowed him to connect developmental dots across different age groups, which he believes is critical for nurturing talent.

As they contemplate the future, both coaches acknowledge the growing financial divide within the sport. Revell stated, “There’s a noticeable pay gap between Premier League academies and lower leagues, which can deter talented players from pursuing their dreams locally.” Meanwhile, Garry stressed the importance of engaging younger fans and providing educational opportunities for players outside of football, recognizing the challenges of sustaining a long-term career in the sport.

Ultimately, Revell and Garry’s insights paint a picture of a football landscape that must adapt to technological advances while preserving its core values. As the game continues to evolve, the human element remains irreplaceable.

FAQ

• What are the main concerns regarding technology in football? Both coaches worry that excessive reliance on technology might dampen the emotional connection fans have with the game.
• How do the coaches view the future of player support staff? They believe top players will increasingly need personal support to manage their health amidst growing demands.
• What tactical changes are emerging in football? There’s a shift towards greater flexibility in player roles rather than sticking to traditional formations.
• How important is player character in recruitment? Both Revell and Garry emphasize that while data is valuable, human judgment in assessing player character is crucial.

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