Two development centres have invited my child in — is doing both a bad idea?

Honestly, if he’s got the energy, let him play. At nine years old, football is mostly about getting as many touches on the ball as possible. My only concern would be burnout, but if he’s asking for more, he’s clearly enjoying it. Watch him for a few weeks—if he’s still bright-eyed at training and eating his dinner afterwards, he’s fine. If he starts looking sluggish or grumpy, pull back to one centre. Don’t overthink the 'confusing' side of it; kids are smarter than we give them credit for. They can handle two different coaches telling them slightly different things just fine. Focus on whether he’s actually getting to play, rather than just standing in lines waiting for a turn. If both centres have him in small-sided games, he’s getting exactly what he needs.