What football position should I play?

As with any sport, in football, there are likely to be skills that you’re better at than others and some that are worse. These unique skill sets can help dictate which football position you should play to offer the most value to your fellow teammates whilst honing in on your natural skill. 

For instance, being a goalkeeper will require you to have quick reaction times and responsive reflexes, whereas centre-backs require a higher level of resilience and the ability to make quick decisions. Whether you’re looking to find out more about what the different football positions are, or you’re keen to know more about the different skills required for each, read on to find out more.

How do I choose a football position?

When deciding on a football position, it’s important to pick one that plays to your strengths. Try making a list of your skills and strengths within the sport and discussing these with your teammates or coach in order to help you identify the position you may be best suited to. This is particularly important if you have similar skillsets to others - as you don’t want too many people after one position!

Many players who start playing in one position will transition to others as the years go by and they grow in confidence, discovering where their individual skills are best put to use, so don’t worry if you don’t feel fully committed to the position that you initially choose. 

How many positions are there in football? 

If you’re new to football or simply wondering what football position you should play, you’re not alone. Understanding each position is key to finding your strengths and playing to them. Every role has its own demands, rewards, and challenges.

In football, players are split into four main position types; goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders and forwards. We explain each of these below, looking in the context of full 11-a-side football.

Goalkeeper 

Often considered the hardest position to play in football, the goalkeeper role is unlike any other. Positioned as the last line of defence, keepers need fast reflexes, exceptional awareness, and the ability to keep a calm head under pressure.

It’s not just about saving shots, great goalkeepers predict opponents’ moves, organise the defence, and launch counter-attacks. They also take many physical hits, diving and stretching constantly to protect the net. If you thrive in high-pressure situations and have good hand-eye coordination, this might be the best position in football for you.

Defenders

Defenders are responsible for stopping the opposing team from scoring. They play in their own team’s half and must have strong tackling skills, spatial awareness, and stamina. There are two different types of defender:

Centre Backs (CB)

Centre backs are positioned in front of the goalkeeper. Their job is to block shots, win headers, and maintain a solid defensive line. Quick reactions and strength are vital.

Full Backs (FB)

Full backs operate on the left and right flanks. They defend against midfielders but also support their own team’s attack by overlapping up the pitch. If you’re fit, fast, and love a challenge, being a full back could suit you.

Midfielders 

If you're asking yourself ‘how do I know what position I should play in football’, and you’re good at both defending and attacking, midfield might be your zone. Midfielders control the tempo of the game and connect the defence to the attack.

Central Defensive Midfielder (CDM)

These players sit just in front of the defenders. They're tactical and good at intercepting passes. They’re a critical part of any team looking to hold possession and break up opposition plays.

Central Attacking Midfielder (CAM)

With good vision, passing accuracy, and the ability to shoot from range, CAMs are responsible for setting up goals.

Wingers (Left/Right)

The middle of the pitch is also home to the left wingers and right wingers. While the main task of these players is to attack the defenders from the opposition, they can also help the full backs defensively. Wingers are expected to move at a fast pace, with good dribbling skills and can shoot the ball well.

Forwards

Arguably the best position in football for those who love scoring goals, forwards are the focal point of attack. This role requires speed, skill, and the ability to handle pressure.

Centre Forwards (CF)

These players lead the attack. To succeed, they need powerful shots, good heading ability, and the agility to break away from defenders. They’re often the team’s top scorers and must stay alert for any scoring opportunities.

Left and Right Forwards (LF & RF)

Some formations include wide forwards who play between the central striker and the wingers. These players need to be fast, creative, and comfortable cutting inside or moving wide, depending on the play.

What is the easiest position in Football?

Many ask this question. While no role is truly “easy” at a competitive level, some beginners may find full back or winger roles slightly more straightforward to pick up due to their clear on-pitch responsibilities and lower decision-making burden compared to central roles like goalkeeper or midfield. With that being said, the easiest position in football will always depend on your personal strengths and playing style.

To help summarise the above points, here are some quick tips to help you decide on a position:

If you're agile with fast reflexes → Goalkeeper

If you're strong and tactical → Centre back or CDM

If you're energetic and enjoy both defending and attacking → Midfielder

If you're quick and enjoy running with the ball → Winger or full back

If you’re a natural scorer → Forward

Ultimately, the best way to find your spot is through experience. Try out different positions, ask for feedback from coaches, and consider where you feel most comfortable and impactful on the pitch.

What about being a coach?

If being on the field isn’t for you and you love guiding others, becoming a coach might be your calling. Coaches design strategies, help players develop, and often have a huge impact on a team’s performance. For a deeper dive, read our guide on how to become a football coach.

Get the right position and the right kit with Avec Sport

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and experiment playing in different football positions. Whether you're in goal or up front, every role plays a vital part in the beautiful game. While, if you’re also looking for a new kit to help you perform well in your new position, take a look at our range of team kits and training footballs.