Analytical Psychology of Football: Professional Jungian Football Coaching

Jungian psychology of football is a new and cutting edge approach being applied by Champions league teams and used in youth football training. Implications for the wider role of football organisations in society as models for the diagnosis and management of trauma and tension in our changing world are highlighted.

Analytical Psycholog y of Football: Professional Jungian Football Coaching provides for youth trainers, accessible, scientifically based tools and techniques to develop resilience and sustain motivation in grass roots and elite footballers. The values and psychological make-up of best in class international trainers are revealed, and commented upon by a Champions League manager. Theory is traced from the early history of the game through to the present day, equipping trainers with the guiding psychological concepts which are shaping the future of the sport. Case examples of how the game can support society through periods of change, and in fact, advance civilisation are described.

A Jungian appreciation of the transformational power of the football is a step forward for psychologists, and educators who wish to keep up with advancements in their professions, for football students and for trainers wishing to remain competitive.

John O’Brien is a Jungian analyst with 30 years experience of C-suite performance consulting in the US, the UK, Europe and Asia. A British trained MBA, M.A. and author he is presently engaged in football and its contribution to the prevention and recovery from collective traumas of social conflict and pandemic.

Nada O’Brien is a Jungian analyst, university lecturer and author with 20 years of international consulting experience in Europe. She is currently researching and supporting innovative psychological approaches in training for coaches in youth football.