A grassroots football coaching publication

9v9 · Issue 02 · Chapter 3 · Position one of six

Goalkeeper

Start, see, speak

GK · Goalkeeper9v9 · 3-3-2
Starting positions for goalkeeper in a 3-3-2. Positions are a starting point, not fixed instructions.Nine-player 3-3-2 starting shape, highlighting GK as goalkeeper; the team attacks upwards.GK3521187910ROLE GK

Starting positions for goalkeeper in a 3-3-2. Positions are a starting point, not fixed instructions.

How We Play illustration based on reviewed guidance. Starting positions are not fixed.
Key
  • Us
  • Key space

Ask yourself

Who is free, and what happens if I pass there?
✓ Coaching reviewed · 20 October 2026

Written by Niall Walsh, grassroots football coach and founder of How We Play. Coaching reviewed by David Wilson on 20 October 2026.

Your jobs

  1. Start by looking for a simple pass to a teammate who can receive.
  2. Keep talking to the back three about opponents and space.
  3. Before choosing a pass, think about what happens if we lose it.

Principles this position uses

  1. Principle 1Middle firstPress or cover?
  2. Principle 4Go together, recover togetherAre teammates close enough to help?