Talent identification and development in soccer since the millennium

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Talent Development Research

Background:

• A 2000 review highlighted key areas for future research in soccer talent identification and development.
• Progress has been made in addressing calls for multidisciplinary and longitudinal research designs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate advancements in soccer talent identification and development over the past two decades.
• To assess progress relative to the future research directions proposed in a 2000 review.
• To identify variables with predictive value for soccer player performance.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and analysis of research published over the last 20 years.
• Evaluation of progress in multidisciplinary, longitudinal, and female football research.
• Analysis of scout selection criteria and predictive variables.

Main Results:

• Mono-disciplinary research continues to expand, but multidisciplinary and longitudinal studies have also advanced.
• Progress has been made in identifying experiential criteria used by scouts.
• Certain variables demonstrate predictive value for soccer performance from adolescence to adulthood.

Conclusions:

• Significant progress has been achieved in soccer talent identification and development research, particularly in longitudinal and multidisciplinary approaches.
• Further research is needed to refine predictive models and understand scout decision-making.
• Enhancing knowledge of best practices is crucial for developing future professional soccer players.