Ahead of the UEFA Futsal Champions League, we caught up with Matthew Barton
Background and Beginnings
Matthew Barton, affectionately known as Matty, is a 19-year-old futsal player from Manchester who has been involved in the sport for over a decade. His journey into futsal began unexpectedly when he was just eight years old. "My dad saw an advert about Manchester Futsal Club hosting an event at the Velodrome and decided to take me down to check it out," Matty recalls. What started as a casual visit quickly turned into a passion. "After that first experience, I began training regularly in Stretford under coaches like Ilya, King, Sam, and Chris Vernon. I’ve never left since," he adds, underscoring his deep-rooted commitment to the club.
Futsal Journey
Matty has been part of Manchester Futsal Club Academy since the age of eight, progressing through the entire system. His development within the club has seen him rise through the ranks, from the youth academy teams to the development squad, where he currently serves as the captain. "Being part of Manchester Futsal Club from such a young age allowed me to develop my skills in a competitive environment, and each step up the ladder was both challenging and rewarding," Matty reflects.
Growing up in Manchester, Matty was always involved in sports, particularly football, which was his first love. However, it was the fast-paced nature of futsal that truly captivated him. "As a young footballer, my best attributes were quick thinking and passing, and I realised that futsal could really enhance those skills," he explains. The speed and intensity of futsal provided a unique challenge that Matty eagerly embraced, setting the stage for his development into a versatile and quick-witted player.
Key Influences and Mentors
Over the years, several key figures have shaped Matty’s journey in futsal. Among them, Sam has had the most profound impact. "Since I joined Manchester Futsal Club, I've always looked up to Sam as a role model. I even had a T-shirt with his image on it," Matty shares with a smile. Sam’s leadership and dedication on and off the court have deeply influenced Matty, helping him to refine his skills and mindset.
But it’s not just Sam who has guided Matty along the way. "All the lads in the squad are inspirations to me; I see them all as older brothers in a way. Being the youngest, they all hold a big influence on me," he says. This camaraderie and mentorship within the team have played a crucial role in Matty’s growth, both as a player and as a person.
Climbing the Ranks at Manchester Futsal Club
Matty’s experience with Manchester Futsal Club has been nothing short of transformative. Over the past three years, he has been involved with the first team, gaining valuable experience and insights from seasoned players. "I’ve been involved with the first team for 3 years now, and the lads have been very supportive in training and on game days especially," Matty notes. His role as the captain of the development team has been instrumental in his leadership development, and being in and around the first team offers him the chance to step onto the European stage. "It’s an incredible opportunity to be in and around the first team for the Champions League. Manchester Futsal Club has provided a clear pathway that enables players to play at the highest level in English futsal and now on the European stage," he says, expressing his gratitude for the opportunities the club has afforded him.
The Thrill of Futsal
What Matty enjoys most about futsal is the speed and intensity of the game. "It's completely different from football in that aspect, and that's what made me prefer playing futsal to football," he shares. For Matty, futsal’s demands for quick thinking, sharp reflexes, and constant involvement make it an exhilarating sport.
As he continues to train and develop his game, Matty is clear about the skills needed to succeed in futsal. "I don’t think there’s a certain list of individual strengths required in futsal, as there are many play styles you could have," he explains. However, being comfortable on the ball is crucial, especially for younger players. "Getting comfortable when you’re on the ball makes a big impact on your game," he adds.
Preparing for the Big Stage
With Manchester Futsal Club hosting the Champions League, Matty is excited about the prospect of competing on such a prestigious stage. "Obviously, as it’s Manchester Futsal Club’s first time in the Champions League, that in itself is amazing. But to be able to say that we are hosting it is still crazy to think," he admits. For Matty, this tournament is a chance not just to compete, but to measure himself and his team against the best in Europe. "It will be a different experience playing against teams from across Europe, and I’m looking forward to seeing what futsal is like in different countries," he says.
Advice for the Next Generation
Matty is passionate about the impact futsal can have on young players, both in terms of skill development and social connection. "Futsal can massively affect young players; it can improve their football experience but also help them on a social level, creating a community and a friendly environment," he notes. His advice to younger players is simple but powerful: "Stick to it. I’ve seen from experience that some players drop futsal to fully pursue football, but keeping involved with futsal massively improves their technique as they get older."
Life Beyond Futsal
Outside of futsal, Matty enjoys a range of hobbies that help him relax and unwind. "I enjoy playing darts and occasionally video games," he says. Balancing these interests with his studies and his commitment to futsal, Matty is a well-rounded young player with his sights set on future success.
As he prepares for the challenges ahead, both in his studies and on the futsal court, Matty remains focused on his ultimate goals: to become a regular first-team player at Manchester Futsal Club and to help the club become a regular fixture in the Champions League. With his dedication, skill, and the strong support system around him, there’s little doubt that Matty Barton is a name we’ll be hearing much more of in the world of futsal.
Come and catch Matty and Manchester Futsal Club in the UEFA Futsal Champions League this August. Tickets are available now at www.manchesterfutsalshop.com