As previous literature updates, I have performed a PubCrawler search looking for football articles in NCBI Medline (PubMed) and GenBank databases.
Following studies were retrieved for this week:
1 Match Demands and Perceived Exertion of Cerebral Palsy Soccer National Team Players
Reference: Sports Health. 2025 May 30:19417381251338801. doi: 10.1177/19417381251338801. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Daniel Wartner, Rick Cost, J C Andersen, José M Oliva-Lozano
Summary: The aims of this study were to analyze match demands and perceptual responses of cerebral palsy soccer national team players. Specifically, to identify whether variations in match demands exist between playing positions and between halves. The hypothesis was that differences between playing positions exist and match demands differ from first to second half. An observational, longitudinal study was conducted over the 2022-2023 season. Electronic performance and tracking systems collected physical output, whereas perceptual responses were collected through ratings of perceived exertion postmatch. Playing position significantly affected all variables (F(4,66) = 4.05-73.31; P < .001; ηp2 = 0.20-0.82). Midfielders had the greatest average physical output in all variables, except for high-intensity accelerations per minute (forwards = ~0.19 count/min) and maximum velocity (full-backs = ~28.87 km/h). Match half had no significant effect on any variable (F(4,66) = 0.00-1.38; P > .05; ηp2 = 0.00-0.02), except for distance per minute, which was usually greater in the first half than second half (F(1,66) = 7.15; P = .01; ηp2 = 0.10). Regarding perceptual response, playing position had a significant effect, with goalkeepers having significantly lower ratings of perceived exertion compared with the other positions (P < .05). Playing position significantly affected all variables, with goalkeepers showing the lowest demands, followed by central defenders. Midfielders had the highest physical output across most variables, except for high-intensity accelerations per minute (forwards) and maximum velocity (full-backs). Match half had no significant effect on any variable, except for distance per minute. Understanding match demands and positional differences in cerebral palsy soccer helps coaches plan tailored training sessions and drills to meet specific physical outputs. This knowledge supports training periodization, optimal player performance, and recovery. Insights into physical challenges for each position assist in scouting and adjusting training intensity.
2 Road to FIFA Women’s World Cup: A Case Study on Changes in Body Composition and Physical Performance Measures in Elite Female Soccer Players
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2025 May 16. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005134. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Santiago Zabaloy, Rodrigo Villaseca-Vicuña, Tomás T Freitas, Irineu Loturco
Summary: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a 4-month training period on the body composition and physical performance of elite female soccer players during their preparation for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Twenty-seven players of a women’s national soccer team volunteered to participate in this study. Subjects were tested at 3-time points (i.e., time-point 1, time-point 2, and time-point 3) for body composition (sum of 6 skinfolds [∑6SF] measures), maximal dynamic strength (i.e., squat 1 repetition maximum [squat 1RM]), countermovement jump (CMJ), and 10-m sprint performance. Our results demonstrated substantial improvements in body composition (i.e., reduced ∑6SF and fat mass percentage and increased muscle mass percentage [MM%]), strength (i.e., enhanced absolute and relative squat 1RM), speed and jump performance (i.e., decreased sprint times and increased CMJ height) (p < 0.001; effect size: very large) at the different time points. Post hoc analyses revealed that all measured parameters varied significantly from TP1 to TP2 and TP3 (p: 0.006 to <0.001), except for MM% and CMJ height between TP1 and TP2 (p > 0.299). In conclusion, these findings highlight the effectiveness of the 4-month training period in enhancing the overall performance of the female soccer players. Furthermore, it is plausible to suggest that the changes in anthropometric and body composition parameters were directly related to the improvements observed in physical performance measures.
3 The Effects of a 6-Week Resisted Small-Sided Games Training Program on the Power Performance of Young Soccer Players
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2025 May 16. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005120. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Branislav Majkić, Nikola Stojanović, Ana Lilić, Zoran Milanović
Summary: Small-sided games (SSG) with additional load can improve power performance in soccer players. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a 6-week resisted SSG training program on power performance in young soccer players. Twenty-two under-17 top-national youth-level soccer players (age: 16.11 ± 0.41 years; height: 176.31 ± 5.71 cm; body mass: 65.16 ± 8.1 kg) were randomly allocated to a weighted vests group (WV; n = 11), which wore weighted vests of 10% of their body mass or control group (CG; n = 11) with no additional load during sessions. Subjects performed vertical jump test, sprint running test (5, 10, and 30 m), and change of direction tests (COD) (Slalom, t test, and 4 × 5 m). The 6-week experimental program, implemented into regular sessions, included 2 additional SSGs per week and consisted of 3 sets lasting 3 minutes with 3-minute rest intervals. The players were divided into 2 teams of 5 and 2 of 6 players, each consisting of a mix of players from WV and CG, and performed SSG on the field area corresponding to 75 m2 per player. Results revealed an improvement for WV in jump height by 7.34% (ES = 1.79) and in Peak Power (PP) by 4.40%. Significant interaction effects were observed in the Slalom and 4 × 5 m tests, and there was a distinction for 5 and 30 m sprints but with no statistically significant interaction effects. It is concluded that implementing resisted SSGs during the preparatory period can enhance jump height, PP, COD, and 5 m sprint time in young soccer players.
4 Comparison of physical characteristics among english professional and semi-professional soccer players across different leagues
Reference: PLoS One. 2025 May 29;20(5):e0324436. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0324436. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Nicholas Joel Ripley, Jack Fahey, Paul Jones, Jake Batsford, Paul Sindall, Christopher Bramah, Paul Comfort
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12121789/pdf/pone.0324436.pdf
Summary: The purpose of the present study was to investigate if differences exist in neuromuscular qualities between different leagues in English male soccer. Twenty soccer players (age: 23.3 ± 5.2 years, stature: 180.3 ± 7.0 cm, mass: 82.5 ± 7.7 kg) from English football league two (EFL2). 34 soccer players (age: 25.8 ± 4.3 years, stature: 180.9 ± 5.6 cm, mass: 81.4 ± 8.6 kg) from National league (NL) and 23 soccer players (age: 27.5 ± 4.3 years, stature: 182.1 ± 5.5 cm, mass: 84.1 ± 8.0 kg) from National league North (NLN). Each player completed three to five repetitions of the countermovement jump (CMJ), countermovement rebound jump (CMJRJ) and isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP). Trivial to small differences were observed in CMJ jump height, CMJ momentum, relative average braking and propulsion force, time to take-off and modified reactive strength index (RSI) (p > 0.265, d = 0.05-0.55). However, moderate to large (p ≤ 0.009, d = 0.94-1.25) differences were observed in countermovement depth. Trivial to moderate differences were observed in absolute and relative peak net force and force at 100 and 250 ms (p ≥ 0.092, d = 0.13-0.63). Trivial to moderate differences were observed in CMJRJ rebound jump height and rebound jump momentum (p ≥ 0.440, d = 0.17-0.41). NLN players had longer rebound contact time and lower rebound RSI, rebound average relative braking and propulsion forces to a large magnitude (p ≤ 0.001, d = 1.18-1.85), with small differences between ELF2 and NL (p > 0.536, d = 0.11-0.39). Lower reactive qualities of NLN players could explain observed leagues, considering their relationship with match scoring situations. All players would be considered weak (<30 N/kg) and practitioners should prioritise lower limb strength across all leagues.
5 Can Unilateral Strength Training Optimize Change of Direction Mechanics and Mitigate Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Risk in Female Soccer Players? A Preliminary Pre-Post Intervention Study
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2025 Apr 29;13(5):135. doi: 10.3390/sports13050135.
Authors: Alice Rogalski, Ayrton Moiroux-Sahraoui, Maria Stergiou, Maxence Pieulhet, Maurice Douryang, Florian Forelli
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12115484/pdf/sports-13-00135.pdf
Summary: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a major concern in female soccer players, with change of direction (COD) movements being a key contributor to non-contact injuries. Traditional injury prevention programs have shown limited effectiveness in addressing individual biomechanical deficits. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 10-week unilateral strength training program on COD mechanics and ACL injury risk factors. Eleven female soccer players participated in a pre-post intervention study. Movement mechanics was assessed using the Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS) at 45°, 75°, and 90° angles. The training program included unilateral lower limb strengthening exercises designed to enhance neuromuscular control and reduce biomechanical risk factors. Risk profiles were analyzed before and after the intervention. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests and effect size calculations. Significant improvements in CMAS scores were observed at all COD angles (p < 0.05), with the largest effect at 90° (Cohen’s d = 2.1). The percentage of high-risk players decreased from 82% to 0%, while the proportion of low-risk players increased from 36% to 73%. Improved knee alignment, foot placement, and trunk stability were key contributors to the observed movement enhancements. Unilateral strength training may effectively improve COD mechanics and reduces biomechanical risk factors associated with ACL injuries in female soccer players. Our findings suggest that individualized training interventions can influence current injury prevention strategies.
6 Consensus of Return-to-Play Criteria After Adductor Longus Injury in Professional Soccer
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2025 Apr 27;13(5):134. doi: 10.3390/sports13050134.
Authors: José Luis Estévez Rodríguez, Jesús Rivilla García, Sergio L Jiménez-Sáiz, Sergio Jiménez-Rubio
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12116125/pdf/sports-13-00134.pdf
Summary: Return to play (RTP) decision making in professional soccer is crucial for minimising re-injury risk, reducing financial burdens on clubs, and optimising player performance. Despite its significance, there is a lack of objective criteria and consensus on RTP for adductor longus injuries, one of the most common muscle injuries in soccer. The aim of the present consensus was to validate an RTP protocol based on clinical, functional, and performance criteria through expert evaluation. This study hypothesises that a validated RTP protocol for adductor longus injuries will enhance decision making, reduce re-injury rates, and improve player performance upon return. An observational survey was designed to validate an RTP protocol through an expert panel. A total of 63 injury-management professionals (strength and conditioning coaches, physiotherapists, doctors, and rehabilitation fitness coaches) with an average experience of 12.02 ± 6.87 years participated in validating a 20-criteria RTP protocol. The protocol, divided into clinical, functional, and performance criteria, was assessed using a 5-point Likert scale. Aiken’s V coefficient was calculated for content validity, with criteria validated if Aiken’s V ≥ 0.75. Out of 20 initial RTP criteria, 14 were validated by the expert panel, with Aiken’s V ranging from 0.77 to 0.94 (overall range: 0.61-0.98). Key validated criteria included pain on palpation, flexibility, imaging, athlete feedback, strength assessments, movement quality, pre-injury GPS data, and performance under simulated match conditions. Criteria such as the Copenhagen adduction exercise and specific agility tests were not validated. The expert-validated RTP protocol for adductor longus injuries provides a structured approach to decision making, potentially reducing re-injury risk, improving rehabilitation strategies, and enhancing player performance. These findings could be integrated into clinical sports-medicine practices to enhance rehabilitation effectiveness and RTP decisions in professional soccer.
7 Review Articles on Soccer Performance Analysis: A Bibliometric Analysis of Current Trends and Emerging Themes
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2025 Apr 24;13(5):131. doi: 10.3390/sports13050131.
Author: Spyridon Plakias
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12116096/pdf/sports-13-00131.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to analyze review articles on soccer performance analysis (PA) using a bibliometric approach to address three main research questions: (a) How has the publication of review articles related to soccer PA evolved over time? (b) Which authors and journals have been the most influential in this field and what are the collaboration networks between them? (c) What are the dominant topics, methodological issues, and gaps in the relevant literature? A systematic search was conducted in the Scopus database on 24 January 2025, using a comprehensive Boolean expression to identify relevant review articles. The extracted data were analyzed using VOSviewer (1.6.20.0). We employed bibliometric performance analysis, science mapping, and clustering techniques including co-authorship, co-occurrence, bibliographic coupling, and co-citation analyses. The study included 314 review articles, demonstrating an exponential increase in publications since 2017. The most influential journal was Sports Medicine, while the leading authors included F. M. Clemente and H. Sarmento. Co-occurrence analysis revealed five thematic clusters covering physical performance, nutrition, coaching strategies, tactical analysis, and emerging data-driven approaches. Notably, significant gaps in the literature were identified in the areas of set pieces, key performance indicators, and contextual variables. This bibliometric analysis, creating a comprehensive map of the review articles on soccer PA, highlights the diverse and interdisciplinary nature of soccer PA research, identifies gaps in the literature, and offers practical considerations for researchers and journal editors aiming to advance the field of soccer PA.
8 Effects of a competitive season on the plasma lipid profile of soccer players
Reference: Physiol Rep. 2025 May;13(10):e70382. doi: 10.14814/phy2.70382.
Authors: Santo Marsigliante, Giulia My, Okba Selmi, Enrico Paolo Villani, Aymen Hawani, Antonella Muscella
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12106951/pdf/PHY2-13-e70382.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a soccer season on the lipid profile of professional soccer players. Forty male players participated in the study. Blood samples for lipid profile analysis were collected at four time points: before the start of the training period (T0), immediately after the 4-week training phase (T1), at mid-season (T2, 23 weeks after T0), and the end of the season (T3, 43 weeks after T0). Throughout the competitive season, there was a significant decrease in body fat percentage (BFP, p < 0.001, RM-ANOVA) and an increase in fat-free mass (FFM, p < 0.001, RM-ANOVA). Plasma levels of total cholesterol (TC) and LDL cholesterol (LDL) significantly decreased (TC: p = 0.003, LDL: p = 0.033, RM-ANOVA), whereas HDL cholesterol (HDL) levels increased significantly in response to training (p = 0.013, RM-ANOVA). Triglyceride (TG) concentrations were significantly higher before the season than after (p < 0.001, RM-ANOVA). Additionally, the LDL/HDL and TC/HDL ratios showed significant reductions over the season (LDL/HDL: p = 0.004, TC/HDL: p < 0.001, RM-ANOVA). The observed decrease in LDL, TC, and TG levels, along with the increase in HDL levels at the end of the season. These results suggest that regular soccer training induces favorable changes in the lipid profile of professional players. Further studies are needed to determine whether such changes are associated with long-term health outcomes in elite athletes, particularly considering their typically low baseline risk for cardiovascular conditions.
9 Skeletal age prediction models by maturity status in male soccer players
Reference: Sci Rep. 2025 May 25;15(1):18239. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-00402-x.
Authors: Luis Alberto Flores, Christopher McLaren-Towlson, Lidia G De León, Fabiana Bonito, Pedro Mil-Homens, Iván Peña-González, Maria Isabel Fragoso
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12104434/pdf/41598_2025_Article_402.pdf
Summary: This study focus is to develop a new model to estimate skeletal age (SA) as a function of the state of biological maturation in male soccer players, and to propose cut-off points to classify the state of biological maturation based on the percentage of adult height (PAH). SA was determined in 747 Portuguese male soccer players, using the Tanner-Whitehouse (TW) 3 method, and PAH was predicted by TW3 (P-TW3) and Khamis-Roche (P-KR) methods. Subsequently, the sensitivity and specificity of the P-TW3 were estimated to classify late, on-time and early maturers to obtain cut-off points, by age; and to develop specific equations for each maturation stage. Both the model using P-TW3 and the model using P-KR showed a SA predictive capacity of 93%. The average differences were similar to zero. P-TW3 cutoff points were established by ROC curve analysis to identify late and early maturers according to their SA. Following, predictive models were developed to estimate SA according to maturity status. The predictive capacity of the models was 87.3% in late maturers, 92.3% in on-time maturers and 93.5% in early maturers. The prediction models are a reliable and cost-effective method to estimate SA in male soccer players.
10 The sport function subscale of the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score could not be an indicator of postural balance in soccer players with groin pain
Reference: J ISAKOS. 2025 May 23:100906. doi: 10.1016/j.jisako.2025.100906. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Fatma Chaari, Nicolas Peyrot, Sébastien Boyas, Abderrahmane Rahmani, Haithem Rebai, Sonia Sahli
Download link: https://www.jisakos.com/action/showPdf?pii=S2059-7754%2825%2900523-1
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the association between the Copenhagen Hip and groin outcome score (HAGOS) related to sport and recreation (Sport/Rec) and static and dynamic postural balance in soccer players with groin pain. We hypothesized that better postural balance outcomes would correlate with higher HAGOS Sport/Rec scores in these players. Eighty-four soccer players with groin pain from seven soccer teams volunteered to take part in the study. An investigator collected static (stabilometric platform) and dynamic (Y-Balance Test (Y-BT)) postural balance, and patient-reported outcome measures (HAGOS) in the research laboratory. To investigate the association between the postural balance outcomes and the HAGOS Sport/Rec scores, Spearman’s correlation coefficient (r) was used. The included participants presented the following demographic information: age: 21.56 yrs (2.22), height: 1.78 m (0.06), body mass: 75.10 kg (8.41), body mass index: 23.80 km/m2 (2.50). The HAGOS Sport/Rec scores showed a small significant positive correlation with the posteromedial reach distance for the Y-BT on both injured (r =0.21, p=0.04) and non-injured (r =0.22, p=0.04) limbs. However, no significant associations (p>0.05) were found between these scores and the other Y-BT outcomes, nor with the static bipedal and unipedal postural balance findings. Overall, the findings of the present study showed only small positive correlations between the posteromedial direction of the Y-BT and HAGOS Sport/Rec scores. Given the observed small magnitude of correlations and the non-significant associations between the HAGOS Sport/Rec scores and the rest of the Y-BT outcomes or static postural balance outcomes, it appears that Sport/Rec may not serve as a comprehensive indicator for postural balance outcomes. Therefore, coaches and clinicians should consider combining postural balance assessments with HAGOS Sport/Rec scores to comprehensively tailor their interventions to address both the subjective and objective functional aspects of groin pain in soccer players.
11 Implementing injury prevention strategies in community-based youth football: The role of parents, coaches, and organizational leaders
Reference: PLoS One. 2025 May 30;20(5):e0322373. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0322373. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Jillian E Urban, Kimberly D Wiseman, Justin B Moore, Madison E Marks, Ty D Holcomb, Braydon B Lazzara, Christopher M Miles, Laura A Flashman, Joel D Stitzel, Kristie L Foley
Download link: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0322373
Summary: The objective of the study was to gather perspectives and experiences of parents, coaches, and organizational leaders surrounding safety in youth football as it relates to roles and responsibilities of the coach. Parents (n = 13) and coaches (n = 10) of two youth football teams participated in separate, team-specific monthly focus groups to gather their perspectives and experiences surrounding youth football safety. Six organizational leaders participated in one-on-one interviews. Focus groups were coded in Atlas.ti. Interviews were summarized using methods of rapid analysis. Data from focus groups and interviews were integrated and analyzed for thematic content. Parents, coaches, and organizational leaders regarded the youth football coach’s role as „so much more than football,“ often serving as role models, mentors, and father figures to athletes. Parents place trust in their son’s coaches and expect them to have knowledge and skills necessary to coach football and teach proper skills to prevent injuries. Organizational leaders set expectations of coaches but recognized the coaches‘ autonomy in determining team activities and responsibility for safety. Coaches who teach techniques that are not aligned with current practices and coaches who prioritize winning over safety were identified as concerns for safety. Results demonstrate the important role coaches play in the personal and technical skill development and safety of youth football players and should be considered in the development and implementation of evidence-based strategies to improve safety in community-based sports.
12 Return-to-elite competition for a football player after a Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis. A case report study
Reference: Sci Med Footb. 2025 May 30:1-12. doi: 10.1080/24733938.2025.2510253. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Jose Luis Felipe, Andres Perez-Guerra, Antonio Alonso-Callejo
Summary: The aim of this case report was to evaluate the physical performance and capacity to return-to-elite competition of a male elite football player from the Spanish first division (LaLiga EA Sport™) after the diagnosis of a Hodkin lymphoma (HL). A 28-years-old elite football player (height 178.9 cm; weight 72.3 kg; VO2max 57.0 mL·kg-1·min-1) for the Spanish first division participated in this study. Before diagnosis with HL, he participated in 100 Official Matches (OM) in the Spanish second division (LaLiga Hypermotion™). Once discharged, 271 days after the diagnosis, patient played 5 OM in the Spanish second division (season 22/23) and 37 OM in the Spanish first division (LaLiga EA Sport) (season 23/24). After the placement of a reservoir-type central venous catheter and semen cryopreservation, he received Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin Hydrochloride, Vincristine Sulfate (Oncovin), and Prednisone every 21 days for a total of 6 cycles without complications and excellent tolerance. The player began the solo-training on 16th July 2022 until the progressive return to group training on 9th December 2022 and the full incorporation into the group was on 2nd January 2023. Player has not lost performance on his return-to-elite competition and has even improved in some variables (HSR). An adequate strategy in the initial stages during chemotherapy treatment, based on progressively resistance training (from Reps in Reserve 5 to 2) combined with High-Intensity Interval program (15% above the lactate threshold; Rate of Perceived Exertion 9) helps to achieve adequate Return-to-Play and Return-to-Performance values without any loss of performance when return-to-elite competition.
13 Youth Football Tournaments: Are We Developing Players or Harming Their Growth?
Reference: Cureus. 2025 Apr 28;17(4):e83146. doi: 10.7759/cureus.83146. eCollection 2025 Apr.
Authors: Diogo Roxo, Francisco Tavares, Nuno Loureiro, Jorge Fortunato, Ruben Ferreira, João Pedro Araújo
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12119067/pdf/cureus-0017-00000083146.pdf
Summary: Currently, many children and teenagers dream of becoming football players and dedicate a large part of their time to achieving this goal. The clubs‘ medical and performance departments‘ primary mission is to reduce the risk of injury to these athletes, allowing them to have more playing and training time to develop their full capabilities. This study aimed to investigate whether participation in youth football tournaments with congested schedules increases the risk of injury in U15 footballers, particularly during critical stages of maturation. In this way, in a retrospective manner, an analysis was conducted of the injuries recorded after a period marked by the participation of a U15 elite team in a preseason youth football tournament. Additionally, the maturational stage of each athlete on this team was recorded and the external workload data through the Global Positioning System (GPS), which included total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR), accelerations and decelerations greater than or less than 2 m·s-2 (ACC-DEC2), and accelerations and decelerations greater than or less than 3 m·s-2 (ACC-DEC3), from the weeks before the tournament were used, aiming to understand whether, in the injured athletes, the accumulation of these metrics during the tournament exceeded the accumulation of the same metrics before the tournament. According to the results obtained, eight athletes sustained injuries during the tournament and the two weeks following it. All injured athletes were in the circa or post-peak height velocity (PHV) maturation stage. In the analysis of the GPS data, it was found that 87.5%, 75%, and 50% of the athletes who suffered an injury exhibited higher rolling sum (RS) values during the tournament compared to their previously recorded maximum values regarding TD, HSR, and ACC-DEC2, respectively. In contrast, 75% of the athletes who did not suffer an injury recorded higher maximum RS values before the tournament compared to during the tournament regarding the parameter of ACC-DEC3. The participation of young footballers in the circa-PHV and post-PHV stages of maturation in several games on consecutive days seems to induce negative consequences for the athletes, namely a greater risk of overuse and acute injuries. The external load metrics presented appear to correlate with the risk of injury, specifically a higher risk of injury in athletes whose accumulated values of TD, HSR, and ACC-DEC2 during competition participation are higher than those previously recorded. Conversely, the presence of higher accumulated values of ACC-DEC3 prior to competition participation compared to those recorded during the competition may be a protective factor regarding injury risk. Careful management of microcycles and applied workloads is a key task to control or prevent injuries and, in this way, increase the young footballers‘ participation in games and training.
14 In-Match Physical Requirements and Team Performance in Cerebral Palsy Football Across a Competitive Season
Reference: Sensors (Basel). 2025 May 19;25(10):3193. doi: 10.3390/s25103193.
Authors: Juan Francisco Maggiolo, Alejandro Javaloyes, Manuel Moya-Ramón, Iván Peña-González
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12115525/pdf/sensors-25-03193.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to analyze the in-match physical requirements of cerebral palsy football (CP football) players over an entire national league season (56 matches) and their relationship with team performance-related metrics. Key variables examined included total distance, distance at different intensities, acceleration/deceleration patterns, and ball contacts at various intensities. Statistical analyses (one-way ANOVA, t-tests, Pearson’s correlations, and multiple linear regressions) were conducted to identify differences and predictive relationships between these physical requirements and team success indicators (ranking position, points, and goal-related outcomes). Higher-ranked teams covered significantly greater total and walking distances (t = 2.73 and 3.09, p < 0.01). Total distance had the strongest relationship with team performance (r = 0.91-0.99, R2 = 0.82-0.99), followed by walking and low-intensity distances (r = 0.71-0.92, R2 = 0.66-0.88) and certain acceleration/deceleration actions. In contrast, no significant differences were found in high-intensity actions or ball contact patterns between teams with different performance-related outcomes. These findings suggest that success in CP football is closely related to total distance, particularly at low intensities, indicating a strong connection between physical requirements and tactical strategies. These insights are valuable for coaches and sports professionals, helping to optimize match strategies and training approaches to enhance team performance.
15 Iron’s True Weight: Does the Amount of Iron in the Body Equate to the Amount of Iron on the Bar in Australian Football League Women’s Players?
Reference: Nutrients. 2025 May 16;17(10):1691. doi: 10.3390/nu17101691.
Authors: Michael Pengelly, Kate L Pumpa, David B Pyne, Naroa Etxebarria
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12114154/pdf/nutrients-17-01691.pdf
Summary: The physiological requirements of a successful team sport performance partly depend on iron-facilitated mechanisms. However, how low iron stores affect team sport athletes remains unclear. To explore the influence of iron status on strength and power performance in elite female Australian Rules Football players. Iron indices were measured in 30 players (age 23 ± 4 y; body mass 70 ± 6 kg) at the start and end of the 10-week preseason. Players were categorized as iron deficient (ID; serum ferritin (sFer) < 40 µg/L) or iron sufficient (sFer > 40 µg/L). Over this period, three-repetition maximum and sport-specific performance measures were evaluated. Approximately 80% of all the sFer samples primarily ranged between 9 and 60 µg/L. Strength (e.g., squat, bench press) was up to 13% lower in ID players in week 1, with no substantial differences between groups during week 10. There were marginal differences (ID: -1% to +3%) in performance for all the remaining measures between groups (e.g., 10-m sprint). Very weak to moderate correlations were observed between all the performance measures and fixed effects (e.g., sFer, other strength assessments), increasing to moderate to very strong correlations when accounting for random effects (athlete). Iron deficiency may compromise strength performance, but this shortcoming may not translate to measures of power and speed. Individualized iron monitoring practices for athlete health and performance are encouraged.
16 Neurodegenerative Disease and Association Football (NDAF): Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Reference: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2025 May 21;22(5):806. doi: 10.3390/ijerph22050806.
Authors: Nathan E Howarth, Chen Ji, John Batten, Alan J Pearce, Helen Dawes, Adam J White, Gabriele DeLuca, Samantha Bureau, Christopher J Nowinski, Michelle A Miller
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12111588/pdf/ijerph-22-00806.pdf
Summary: There is increasing concern that head injuries in Association Football (or soccer) may lead to adverse health outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine whether head impacts or injuries are associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative disease. We performed a systematic search using PubMed, Embase, and Ovid (up to April 2025). Studies included investigated neurodegenerative diseases in football in comparison to control athletic and general populations. Data were extracted according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies with an odds ratio (OR) were included in the meta-analysis. A total of ten studies were included in this review, of which nine were suitable for meta-analysis from eight cohorts. The risk for developing any neurodegeneration was 1.69 OR (95%CI 1.11 to 2.59; p = 0.01); for Dementia, it was 2.16 OR (95%CI 1.60 to 2.93; p < 0.01; for Motor Neurone Disease (MND), it was 1.39 OR (95%CI 0.67 to 2.53; p = 0.21); for Parkinson’s Disease (PD), it was 1.14 OR (95%CI 0.55 to 2.89; p = 0.79). Heterogeneity was reduced following the removal of two studies and the revised risk scores for any neurodegenerative disease; Dementia increased, with that for MND reaching significance, 1.81 OR (95%CI 1.22 to 2.30; p = 0.01), but there remained no association with PD. Evidence suggests that professional football significantly increases the odds of neurodegenerative disease.
17 Melatonin Secretion and Impacts of Training and Match Schedules on Sleep Quality, Recovery, and Circadian Rhythms in Young Professional Football Players
Reference: Biomolecules. 2025 May 11;15(5):700. doi: 10.3390/biom15050700.
Authors: Antonio Almendros-Ruiz, Javier Conde-Pipó, Paula Aranda-Martínez, Jesús Olivares-Jabalera, Darío Acuña-Castroviejo, Bernardo Requena, José Fernández-Martínez, Miguel Mariscal-Arcas
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12109335/pdf/biomolecules-15-00700.pdf
Summary: Modern elite football is becoming increasingly physically demanding, often requiring training and matches to be played at night. This schedule may disrupt circadian rhythms and melatonin secretion, thereby impairing sleep and recovery. This study investigated the effects of training time on melatonin secretion, circadian phase markers, and sleep parameters in elite youth soccer players. Forty male players (aged 16-18 years) from an elite Spanish youth football club were studied. Two groups followed the same training program but trained either in the morning (MT) or in the evening (ET). Salivary melatonin was measured at six time points to determine the mean levels, dim light melatonin onset (DLMO), amplitude, and acrophase. Chronotype, sleep quality (PSQI), and daytime sleepiness (ESS) were assessed using validated questionnaires. Dietary intake and anthropometric variables were also recorded. The MT group had higher mean melatonin levels (p = 0.026) and earlier DLMO (p = 0.023) compared to the ET group. Sleep quality was significantly better in the MT group (p < 0.001), despite shorter sleep duration (p = 0.014). No major differences in diet or anthropometry were observed. The chronotype had a secondary effect on the circadian markers. Evening training is associated with alterations in melatonin rhythms and reduced sleep quality, possibly due to light-induced chronodisruption. These findings highlight the importance of training timing as a modifiable factor in the chronobiology and recovery of athletes. Incorporating circadian principles into training schedules may optimize resting time and thus performance and long-term health in athletes.
18 Injury Incidence in Community-Based Walking Football: A Four-Month Cohort Study of 6000+ Hours of Play
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2025 May 19;13(5):150. doi: 10.3390/sports13050150.
Authors: Alfie G Price, Bradley Sprouse, Avinash Chandran, John Hough, Philip J Hennis, Ali Ahmed, Ian Varley
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12115786/pdf/sports-13-00150.pdf
Summary: Walking Football is a growing adapted sport offering a viable alternative to traditional exercise for middle-aged and older adults. While rule modifications aim to reduce injury risk, this has yet to be established. This study conducted injury surveillance in community-based Walking Football to determine injury incidence and characteristics in training and matches. A four-month observational cohort study remotely tracked injuries and exposure time across seven Walking Football clubs in England using a sub-elite injury surveillance framework. Injuries were classified as medical attention (requiring on-field attention without subsequent absence) or time-loss (≥1 day of participation absence). Injury incidence was calculated per 1000 h of play. Across 6364.55 h of exposure, 45 injuries were reported: 30 (66.7%) medical attention and 15 (33.3%) time-loss injuries. Injury incidence was 5.3 [1.5-11.5] per 1000 h in training (medical attention: 3.3 [0.8-7.3]; time-loss: 2.0 [0.5-4.5]) and 37.6 [8.7-83.9] per 1000 h in matches (medical attention: 28.9 [5.8-66.6]; time-loss: 8.7 [0-23.2]). Match injury incidence was significantly higher than training (rate ratio: 7.1 [1.3-31.4]). Findings suggest that injury incidence in community-based Walking Football is low, supporting its safety and potential as a sustainable physical activity strategy for middle-aged and older adults.
19 Walking Football Programme for Elderly People: Study Protocol
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2025 May 17;13(5):149. doi: 10.3390/sports13050149.
Authors: Jofre Pisà-Canyelles, María Mendoza-Muñoz, Jesús Siquier-Coll, Jorge Pérez-Gómez
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12115379/pdf/sports-13-00149.pdf
Summary: This study aims to evaluate the effects of a Walking Football (WF) programme on physical fitness, body composition, health-related quality of life (QoL), and happiness in men and women over 60 years. WF is proposed as a safe and accessible activity to counteract physical inactivity and chronic conditions in ageing populations. A randomized controlled trial will be conducted with 120 participants (both sexes), assigned to either an experimental group (WF intervention) or a wait-list control group. The six-month intervention includes bi-weekly sessions with skills training, match simulations, and fitness exercises. Assessments will be performed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Primary outcome measures will be: body composition (weight, BMI, fat and lean mass), muscular strength, aerobic endurance, agility, range of motion, and subjective well-being (QoL and happiness scales). Linear mixed-effects models and ANCOVA will be used to analyse the data. It is expected that WF will lead to improvements in physical and mental health, contributing to active ageing. This study may also support WF as a tool for social inclusion and well-being in older adults.
20 Return-to-Play Timeline and Recovery Predictors After COVID-19 Infection in Elite Football Players
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2025 May 15;13(5):147. doi: 10.3390/sports13050147.
Authors: Agnes Sziva, Zsuzsanna Kives, Zsolt Szelid
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12115620/pdf/sports-13-00147.pdf
Summary: The pandemic period significantly impacted professional football, leading to mandatory SARS-CoV-2 testing and quarantine. Our study aimed to examine the factors influencing time of recovery after a positive test, including return-to-training (RTT) and return-to-first-match (RTFM) of male football players in a first-division Hungarian team between 8 May 2020 and 30 June 2022. Infection was determined using mandatory RT-PCR testing 3 times per week, which later decreased to 1 to 2 times per week, in 55 elite players. A self-administered questionnaire was utilized based on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services symptom list and modified with relevant factors of return-to-play in football. The incidence of SARS-CoV-2-positive players in the three consecutive years was 5.26; 21.43 and 45.71%. Mild symptoms were present in test-positive players, completing the questionnaire (n = 31), predominantly loss of smell and dry cough. Post-infection fatigue levels correlated with the perceived performance decline. In players with precisely documented dates (n = 18), the average RTT was 18.7 days, while the RTFM was 67.3 days. Older players returned to training faster than their younger counterparts and the RT-PCR Ct number had a weak negative correlation with RTFM. Mental support was provided by family and friends in 68% of the players. This study highlights the variability in return-to-play timelines and the role of age, symptom severity and mental help in recovery and emphasizes the need for individualized rehabilitation in elite football.
21 Putting the Fe into Female Athletes: Insights into Heightened Iron Status and Women’s Australian Football Performance-A Case Study
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2025 Apr 29;13(5):136. doi: 10.3390/sports13050136.
Authors: Michael Pengelly, Kate Pumpa, David Bruce Pyne, Naroa Etxebarria
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12115492/pdf/sports-13-00136.pdf
Summary: Iron deficiency affects up to 70% of female athletes, yet the effectiveness of improving iron status in team sport athletes remains unclear. The purpose was to evaluate the impact of variations in iron status on physical performance in elite female Australian Rules Football players. Iron status was measured in 30 players (age 23 ± 4 y; body mass 70 ± 6 kg) across three time-points of a 24-week season. Players identified as iron deficient non-anemic stage 2 in week 1 received an iron infusion. Remaining players were categorized into heightened iron status (FeUP; iron deficient non-anemic stage 1 players who were advised to take iron supplementation; n = 8) or non-supplemented (Ctrl; week 10: n = 17; week 24: n = 16) groups following week 10. Relative external load measures (e.g., total distance at different velocities), and strength and power measures (e.g., counter-movement jump, reactive strength index) were recorded in weeks 10 and 24 (same weeks as blood samples) to compare physical performance between FeUP and Ctrl groups. Iron status improved in FeUP (30 µg/L to 49 µg/L) and reduced in Ctrl (39 µg/L to 34 µg/L) between weeks 10 and 24. Iron deficiency prevalence among all players was 47-54%. FeUp exhibited small to moderate improvements (5-19%) in some external load measures but no consistent improvement across all measures. At week 24, FeUP showed trivial to moderate differences outperforming Ctrl in seven physical performance measures (e.g., both hip adduction tests), but Ctrl outperformed FeUP in all other measures. Heightened iron status does not consistently enhance physical performance, although avoiding deficiency remains essential for athlete health.
22 The impact of Mood on Sports Flow State in football players: a chain mediating model of Psychological Resilience and Achievement Motivation in Competition
Reference: Front Psychol. 2025 May 9:16:1523400. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1523400. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Jiang Li, Xiaofei Pan
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12098437/pdf/fpsyg-16-1523400.pdf
Summary: The aim was too explore the relationship between Mood and Sport Flow State in football players, and to clarify the mediating roles of Psychological Resilience and Achievement Motivation in Competition. Convenience sampling was used to conduct a questionnaire survey on 388 football players. Use Profile of Mood State (POMS), Smooth Experience Scale-2 (SES-2), Connor Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), and Achievement Motivation Scale (AMS) to evaluate the Mood, Sport Flow State, Psychological Resilience, and Achievement Motivation in Competition of football players. Pearson correlation analysis and mediation analysis were used to investigate the relationship between the four variables of Mood, Sport Flow State, Psychological Resilience, and Achievement Motivation in Competition among football players. Football players‘ mood has a negative impact on Sport Flow State, Psychological Resilience, and Achievement Motivation In Competition, while Sport Flow State, Psychological Resilience, and Achievement Motivation In Competition have a mutually positive impact. Psychological Resilience has a positive impact on Achievement Motivation in Competition. The mediating effect of Psychological Resilience (POMS → CD-RISC → SES-2) accounts for 26.9% of the total effect (r = -0.014, 95% CI -0.020∼-0.009), Achievement Motivation in Competition (POMS → AMS → SES-2) accounts for 17.3% of the total effect (r = 0.009,95% CI -0.013∼-0.005), and the chain mediating effect of Psychological Resilience and Achievement Motivation in Competition (POMS → CD-RISC → AMS → SES-2) accounts for 32.6% of the total effect (r = -0.017, 95% CI -0.022∼-0.013). Football player Mood has a significant negative impact on Sport Flow State, but its actual predictive ability for Sport Flow State is very small. Psychological Resilience and Achievement Motivation in Competition play a chain mediating role in this relationship.
23 The effect of Stop X exercises on balance, strength and range of motion of male adolescent football players with dynamic knee valgus
Reference: Sci Rep. 2025 May 25;15(1):18213. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-00840-7.
Authors: Rahman Hasani Chenari, Ebrahim Mohammad Ali Nasab Firouzjah, Sajad Roshani
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12104407/pdf/41598_2025_Article_840.pdf
Summary: Dynamic valgus of the lower limb is known as a risk factor associated with improper muscle function for many lower limb injuries, especially knee injuries. Stop X exercises has been designed to enhance spatial orientation, prediction, and attention; increase body stability and movement coordination; and teach the appropriate landing techniques. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of Stop X exercises on the balance, strength and range of motion (ROM) of male adolescent football players with dynamic knee valgus (DKV). Thirty football players with DKV were selected purposefully and were randomly divided into two groups, control (n = 15) and training (n = 15). Stork tests, Y-balance test (YBT), goniometer, and digital dynamometer were used to evaluate static balance, dynamic balance, ROM, and hip abduction and external rotation strength, respectively. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and dependent t-tests were used to compare the between and within group differences. After 8 weeks of Stop X exercises, values showed significant improvements in hip abduction (p = 0.005) and external rotation (p = 0.001) strength and ROM (p = 0.009), static balance (p = 0.006) and total score of YBT (p = 0.001). The findings of this study suggest that the STOP-X injury prevention program enhances hip abduction and external rotation strength, ROM, as well as static and dynamic balance in adolescent football players with DKV. Therefore, it is recommended that sports trainers incorporate STOP-X training into the regular exercise routines for adolescent football players to leverage these benefits.
24 Identification and optimization of high-performance passing networks in football
Reference: Phys Rev E. 2025 Apr;111(4-1):044313. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevE.111.044313.
Author: Andrés Chacoma
Summary: This paper explores the relationship between the performance of a football team and the topological parameters of temporal passing networks. To achieve this, we propose a method to identify moments of high and low team performance based on the analysis of match events. This approach enables the construction of sets of temporal passing networks associated with each performance context. By analyzing topological metrics such as clustering, eigenvector centrality, and betweenness across both sets, significant structural differences are identified between moments of high and low performance. These differences reflect changes in the interaction dynamics among players and, consequently, in the team’s playing system. Subsequently, a logistic regression model is employed to classify high- and low-performance networks. The analysis of the model coefficients identifies which metrics need to be adjusted to promote the emergence of structures associated with better performance. This framework provides quantitative tools to guide tactical decisions and optimize playing dynamics. Finally, the proposed method is applied to address the „blocked player“ problem, optimizing passing relationships to minimize the emergence of structures associated with low performance, thereby ensuring more robust dynamics against contextual changes.