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Balls Quote by Edwin van der Sar

“When I was in Dutch and Italian football, a lot of people looked at Manchester United, and when they were asked who was the best player, a lot of them said Paul Scholes. Much of what he did looked simple, but actually it was quite hard. Invariably he controlled the ball instantly and passed it…” quote by Edwin van der Sar
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“When I was in Dutch and Italian football, a lot of people looked at Manchester United, and when they were asked who was the best player, a lot of them said Paul Scholes. Much of what he did looked simple, but actually it was quite hard. Invariably he controlled the ball instantly and passed it straight on, keeping the game moving. He made inch-perfect passes across the pitch; he saw the gaps and could play the ball through them. So it didn't surprise me that so many top-class international footballers recognized his quality.”

Edwin van der Sar

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Guardian, 2010

Paul Scholes' seemingly simple play required extraordinary skill, vision, and precise execution, earning respect from elite players.

In simple terms: Scholes' play looked easy but was very hard.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate hidden mastery in performance.

Themes

sports excellence teamwork skill vision

Mood

admiring analytical

Type

inspirational educational

When to use this quote

  • coaching sessions
  • player development programs
  • team strategy meetings
  • performance analysis
  • talent scouting

Key Concepts

precision spatial awareness decision making

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize subtle excellence?
  • What can teams do to nurture such talent?
A Different Perspective

Even great skill can be overlooked without proper recognition.

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