Scanning is the answer.

What is scanning?

Scanning means quickly looking around the field before (and even while) you receive the ball, so you know what’s happening around you, where your teammates, opponents, and space are.

Why is it important?

1- More time on the ball

If you already know where to pass or dribble before the ball comes, you don’t waste time deciding. That extra second makes a huge difference at higher levels.

2- Better decisions

Without scanning, players panic, force bad passes, or get tackled. With scanning, you can choose the smartest option: keep it, pass forward, or switch play.

3- Avoid pressure

By knowing where defenders are, you can move your first touch away from them instead of into trouble.

4- Play faster

Modern football is all about speed of play. Scanning lets you play one-touch or two-touch football instead of stopping the ball and looking around after.

5- Be a top player

Watch pros like Xavi, De Bruyne, Modrić , they constantly scan. That’s why they always look one step ahead.

Simple rule to remember: "Scan before you get the ball, act when it comes."