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Bio-banding in football: a scoping review with evidence gap map
Jihang Zhang1, Rui Bao1,2, Liuyi Wang3,4
1College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
Aim:
This study conducted the first scoping review with evidence gap map (EGM) on bio-banding in football, a field that has received increasing attention. Although previous studies have investigated technical and physical performance, including physiological outcomes, these findings have not yet been comprehensively reviewed. Hence, this review aimed to synthesize the existing evidence, identify research gaps, and inform future research priorities.
Methods:
This scoping review followed the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. The databases searched were Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and ScienceDirect, and the searches were conducted on 29 January 2026. Eligible studies were original articles published in English or Spanish that investigated bio-banding in youth football players aged 11-15 years, with no restriction on publication year. Data on study characteristics, participant information, and study outcomes were extracted and synthesized to develop the evidence gap map (EGM).
Results:
A total of 47 records were identified, of which 20 met the selection criteria. Publications on bio-banding have increased markedly in recent years. Technical performance and psychological outcomes were the most frequently investigated themes, whereas no studies examined injury outcomes. The majority of studies involved male players and were conducted in Europe, highlighting the need for research involving female players, stakeholders, and more geographically diverse populations.
Conclusion:
Bio-banding is a promising strategy for talent identification and player development. Current evidence suggests that it may reduce maturity-related differences while supporting technical, tactical, and psychological development. However, important evidence gaps remain, particularly regarding physiological outcomes, female players, non-European populations, and diverse study designs. These findings provide practical guidance for coaches and practitioners and highlight priorities for future research.