Building Complete Players On and Off the Pitch
Goalkeepers require a different type of development compared to outfield players. Their role on the pitch, physical demands, and decision-making responsibilities make their training more specific and structured.
At the Baskonia Alavés Academy, goalkeeper development is approached as a specialized process, led by dedicated staff who focus on both performance and long-term growth.
To explain this approach, we spoke with Arley De Mingo, goalkeeper coach for the International Academy and Deportivo Alavés youth structure.
“The goalkeeper is a different type of player. From our point of view, they require a different motor development and a specific training process.”
A Position With Responsibility
Within the Academy, goalkeepers are trained not only to perform, but to understand their role as leaders within the defensive structure.
“The goalkeeper must understand that they are a leader in their defensive area.”
This responsibility requires more than technical ability. Communication, positioning, and decision-making are key elements that are developed consistently throughout the program.
Mentality and Confidence
Mental strength is a fundamental part of goalkeeper development. The position requires resilience, confidence, and the ability to recover quickly from mistakes.
“We believe all goalkeepers must have a very strong mentality.”
Building trust with teammates is also key, allowing the goalkeeper to perform with confidence and support the defensive structure.
A 360 Degree Development Model
The Academy follows a complete development model that focuses on both the player and the person.
“Development has to be 360 degrees. The player must grow both as a person and as an athlete.”
This ensures that goalkeepers develop maturity, responsibility, and a deeper understanding of the game.
Methodology and Structured Progression
Goalkeeper training is organized through a structured methodology based on the same principles used within the Deportivo Alavés youth system.
Work is divided into key areas:
- Shot stopping and handling
- One-on-one situations
- Footwork and distribution
- Tactical positioning
This allows for continuous evaluation and balanced development across all aspects of the position.
Developing Intelligent and Self-Aware Goalkeepers
The objective is to develop goalkeepers who are technically prepared and capable of analyzing their own performance.
“We want goalkeepers to have self-criticism, bravery, and tactical intelligence.”
These qualities are essential for adapting to higher levels of competition.
A Pathway for Growth
The development of players such as Nico Morales, who showed significant progression during his time at the Academy, reflects the impact of consistent training and a structured environment.
The goal is to provide every goalkeeper with the tools to continue progressing, whether within the club or beyond.
Interested in Experiencing This Training Environment?
Goalkeepers who want to train under this methodology and experience a professional development structure can do so through the International Football Summer Camp 2026.
Participants work on technical, tactical, and physical aspects of the position under the guidance of official Deportivo Alavés coaches, within a structured and high-performance environment.
👉 Learn more and register here:
https://www.baskoniaalavesacademy.com/international-summer-camp/