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York-Born Matthew Barber Aims High with Manchester Futsal Club

Ahead of the UEFA Futsal Champions League, we caught up with Matthew Barber


Background and Beginnings


Matthew Barber was born and raised in York, with a rich heritage being half Welsh and half English. Living with his mum, dad, and older sister, his journey into futsal began with encouragement from his local football coach. “The coach of my local team at the time encouraged us to try out futsal for York as additional training and development. After that, I just became hooked,” Matthew recalls.


Introduction to Futsal


Starting futsal at the age of 11, Matthew was drawn to the sport’s fast pace and expressive nature. “I always loved being able to play at a fast pace and also being able to express myself when I was younger, so futsal really appealed to me in that sense. There was also, and still is, a great sense of community, which made me feel very welcome and accepted, something I believe is important for a young lad,” he shares.


Memorable Moments


One of Matthew’s most memorable early experiences in futsal was watching Barcelona train in person. “Seeing Ferrao and Dyego and the level they were at was incredible and something I will never forget,” he says.


Influences and Inspirations


Matthew credits a range of people for influencing and inspiring his futsal career. From family to players and coaches, he mentions, “More recently, I would say Danny and Edgy have been great role models and examples to follow, but when I was younger, I looked up to a few players at York like Fabinho and the Bettison twins. However, throughout my whole life, on and off the court, my dad has been my biggest inspiration and influence. He’s always pushed me down the right path and helped guide me to where I am today. I’m forever grateful for everything he’s done for me.”



Playing Experience


Matthew joined Manchester Futsal Club in January 2024 and has thrived ever since. “I’ve loved it. I’ve learnt so much from the likes of Sam, Edgy, Danny, and Uri. I’ve made massive improvements to my game despite having several setbacks with injuries. Next season will be a big one for me on a personal level, I hope,” he reflects.


Role and Position


As a winger, Matthew’s role involves both defensive and offensive energy. “My role is to provide a lot of energy to the team both defensively and offensively. I think I’m a very direct player and I try to speed up the game by taking players on in the right scenarios,” he explains.


Key Skills for Success


For Matthew, the key skill in futsal is the ability to assess. “Being able to quickly read the game and then formulate an appropriate response is crucial, especially due to the fast-paced nature of the game. This is a skill that can never truly be mastered, I think, as the sport is constantly evolving and there are always new ways to look at certain plays,” he says.


Personal Insights


Matthew doesn’t have any unique pre-game rituals or superstitions. “I always give myself a minute or two to think on my own in silence and try to visualise what I want to do on court. But besides that, I don’t have any strange or unique superstitions,” he shares.

His motivation comes from his drive for success and the opportunity to prove himself. “During training, I am motivated by the idea of winning because I know that games and championships are won during training. During games, I’m focused on applying everything I’ve gone over in the previous week’s training to the best of my ability,” he explains.



Goals and Aspirations


Matthew’s goals are ambitious. “I want to play in the Champions League, represent England at the men’s level, and play abroad for at least a season. However, for now, my ambitions are to do the best I can for Manchester for the next few years at least,” he states.


Hosting the UEFA Futsal Champions League


Hosting the UEFA Futsal Champions League in Manchester is a privilege for Matthew. “Being able to invite family and friends to watch some of the biggest games I’ve ever played is an honour and I’m buzzing for the first match against the Armenian champions. I’m also buzzing for the lads as well, especially those who have been playing for Manchester for a long time. It will be a special moment for them and the fans who’ve been there for their whole journey,” he says.

He’s particularly looking forward to testing himself on the big stage and playing under pressure. “They say pressure is a privilege, so I’m incredibly excited,” he adds.


Preparation for the Event


Matthew’s preparation for the Champions League is rigorous. “I’m in the gym five days a week minimum, and I am honing my technical skills and 1v1 play four to five times a week on court. As well as the physical training, I am ensuring my nutrition is perfect and consolidating my knowledge on the tactical aspects of the game,” he details.


Community and Impact


Matthew believes futsal is an excellent opportunity for developing young players and providing a pathway for those outside the academy system. “Futsal gives a player more freedom to express themselves and showcase their identity, something I believe is vital for any young sportsperson,” he explains.


His advice for young players? “Just enjoy it. Don’t worry about others and their opinions of you, just focus on enjoying yourself and giving it your all. You will never reach true success if you don’t enjoy what you do.”


Personal Life and Interests


Outside of futsal, Matthew regularly goes to the gym and has a keen interest in coding and computers. He is also learning Japanese. “The hobbies I’m most interested in are definitely the gym and the various health aspects that come with it. I love looking after myself and my health. Cooking good meals is definitely one of my favourite things to do. I also do regular strength conditioning, mobility exercises, and cardio to improve my physical condition. A happy body is a happy mind,” he shares.


Fun Fact


A fun fact about Matthew is that he can name every country and capital in the world, as well as every flag for each country.


Matthew Barber’s journey from York to Manchester Futsal Club is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. As he prepares for the UEFA Futsal Champions League, his story is one of inspiration for aspiring futsal players everywhere.


Come and catch Matty and Manchester Futsal Club in the UEFA Futsal Champions League this August. Tickets are available now at www.manchesterfutsalshop.com




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