Methods and techniques for identification of football talents: a systematic review
Abstract
Identifying, selecting and developing talented young players can ensure the sporting and financial success of football clubs. In this context, the objective of this study was to develop a systematic review of the literature, looking for studies related to the identification and selection of talents in the basic categories in football, highlighting the main methods and techniques used in the identification and selection process. This review followed the methodological recommendations of the PRISMA methodology. The following descriptors were used: soccer talent, physical education, training, athletic performance and ability. Searches were performed in the databases Web of Science, SCOPUS, LILACS, PubMed/MEDLINE, SportDiscus, SciELO. A total of 1,254 studies were found and, at the end of the selection process, 19 studies were included. Most studies presented cross-sectional methodological designs (n=12). As main findings, a) traditional models (based on the subjective evaluation of coaches) are negatively criticized; b) current trend of multidimensional analysis of athletes, surpassing the previous model of individualized analysis of abilities; c) there is a greater number of cross-sectional studies in the area. In conclusion, there is a tendency towards a multidimensional approach in the identification and selection of talents in football.
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