Couple of things:
- Fun and enjoyment. It's been eradicated and vastly overlooked in youth sport IMO. Coaches are so keen to "do well" that they ignore the fundamental element, which is kids enjoying sport (something Aaron hits on above with FIFA). If they enjoy the game, they'll be eager to learn.
- Respect. Don't think coaches respect kids/players as much as they used to, they're seen as a number or another one on the production line. They aren't given guidance or proper tutoring based on ability. They're expected to fit a certain 'mould' and if they don't meet that criteria, they're "not good enough". Instead, a coach should develop a player based on their strengths.
- It's business. Decisions even at youth team level are reflective of the pen pushers at the top. If they're not doing the business, they're shipped out.
- Instant results. It's a results driven business but kids aren't given the time to develop anymore. This overlaps with the respect topic mentioned above.
- Funding. Just don't think that much money is given to grassroot football because the talent pools are too big and it's deemed too much effort to nurture a whole host of talent. The clubs would rather you came to them, have trials and go from there.