Como have implemented a comprehensive ban on heading for players under 12, becoming one of the first clubs in Serie A to introduce such stringent safeguarding measures. The policy follows guidance from former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender Raphaël Varane, who sits on the club’s Board of Education and has campaigned extensively for greater protection against head injuries in football.
Graduated age restrictions
The new regulations enforce a total prohibition on headers for under-11s, with corners converted to throw-ins played along the floor to eliminate aerial challenges entirely. Players in the under-12 category may begin limited technical practice using a light rubber ball, restricted to a maximum of five headers per session and no more than once monthly.
Across all academy age groups, coaches have been instructed to reduce repetitive and unnecessary heading exposure. The club will also avoid using over-inflated balls during training sessions to minimise impact force.
Player welfare priority
Varane, who joined Como’s board following his retirement from professional football, emphasised that the protocol prioritises neurological safety during childhood development. “I have spoken several times before about the need to take head impacts seriously in football and the absolute need to protect our kids,” he said. “For young players, the best approach is clear rules, good coaching, comprehension and a culture where welfare and safety come first.”
The World Cup-winning centre-back explained that the pathway deliberately reduces contact when the brain is still growing, before introducing the skill progressively. “This pathway reduces unnecessary contact at the youngest ages, when the brain is still growing, and then teaches the skill properly, step by step, with the right control,” he added.
Como stated that the restrictions will be accompanied by an increased focus on long-term technical development, particularly time on the ball and decision-making, ensuring that young players develop core skills without relying on aerial play during their formative years.