Bunching is normal for under-8s. To reduce it, play smaller-sided games with more goals, use wide gates or end zones that reward width, and coach one simple cue such as "find space where you can see the ball". Avoid fixed positions and constant shouting; children learn space by playing.
Bunching is normal (for a while)
Young children chase the ball because the ball is the fun. Up to about U8 that's expected, and it's why Future Fit has the youngest players in 3v3 and small 5v5 games: fewer players, more space, more touches.
It becomes a coaching problem from around U9 to U10, when players can start to understand space and support.
Games that fix it
- Four-goal games: 2v2 four goals and 4v4 four corner goals reward switching away from the crowd.
- End zones: 3v3 end zone only scores when a teammate receives in the zone, so someone has to stay wide or high.
- Wide channels: 7v7 two-touch wide zones for older groups.
One cue, used all season
Pick a phrase and repeat it: "Can you see the ball and a space?" or "Make the pitch big when we've got it." Freeze play once or twice per session (not more) and ask, don't tell: "Where could Ava go so she's free?"
What not to do
Don't tie young players to rigid positions or tell them never to leave their area. You'll swap bunching for standing still. Shape is something they learn, not a rule they obey.