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 Analysis of Motor and Perceptual-Cognitive Performance in Young Soccer Players: Insights into Training Experience and Biological Maturation

Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Jan 5;14(1):22. doi: 10.3390/sports14010022.
Authors: Afroditi Lola, Eleni Bassa, Sousana Symeonidou, Georgia Stavropoulou, Anastasia Papavasileiou, Kiriakos Fregidis, Marios Bismpos
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/1/22
Summary: This cross-sectional study examined how training age, chronological age, and biological maturity influence motor and perceptual-cognitive performance in youth soccer players, with relevance for health and well-being through sport participation. Forty-one male athletes (age = 14.86 ± 0.81 years) completed a two-day field-based assessment following a holistic framework integrating motor (sprinting, jumping, and agility) and perceptual-cognitive components (psychomotor speed, visuospatial working memory, and spatial visualization). Biological maturity was estimated using the maturity offset method. Regression analyses showed that biological maturity and training age significantly predicted motor performance, particularly sprinting, jumping, and pre-planned agility, whereas chronological age was not a predictor. In contrast, neither maturity nor training experience influenced perceptual-cognitive skills. Among cognitive measures, only psychomotor speed significantly predicted reactive agility, emphasizing the role of rapid information processing in dynamic, game-specific contexts. Youth soccer training should address both physical and cognitive development through complementary strategies. Physical preparation should be tailored to maturity status to ensure safe and progressive loading, while systematic training of psychomotor speed and decision-making should enhance reactive agility and game intelligence. Integrating maturity and perceptual-cognitive assessments may support individualized development, improved performance, and long-term well-being.

#2 Physical Capacity After SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Adolescent Male Soccer Players: A Three-Month Follow-Up Study

Reference: Cureus. 2025 Dec 23;17(12):e99945. doi: 10.7759/cureus.99945. eCollection 2025 Dec.
Authors: Andreea-Consuela Timnea-Florescu, Alexandru Dinulescu, Alexandru Cosmin Palcau, Ana Prejmereanu, Olivia Carmen Timnea, Alexandra Floriana Nemes, Roxana Maria Nemes
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12826559/pdf/cureus-0017-00000099945.pdf
Summary: Background and aim Although many adolescent athletes experience mild or no symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection, the potential mid-term effects on physical performance have not been fully characterized. COVID-19 has been associated with alterations in physiological systems related to strength, speed, and aerobic capacity, which may persist after return to sports activity. Furthermore, limited information is available on postinfection recovery trajectories in adolescent athletes, and return-to-play recommendations for this population often rely on data derived from adults. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on physical performance and the recovery trajectory over three months in adolescent male soccer players in Romania. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 120 male soccer players aged 12-16 years, equally divided into COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 groups. The COVID-19 group included athletes with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection by RT-PCR or rapid antigen testing, while the non-COVID-19 group consisted of athletes with no history of infection, confirmed by negative IgM/IgG serology. Participants underwent weekly fitness tests, including handgrip strength, 10 m and 30 m sprints, bench press, and beep test. For the COVID-19 group, results were analyzed at three time points: one month before infection, one month after infection, and three months postinfection. The Friedman test with Bonferroni correction was applied to assess intragroup changes over time, and differences between the two groups were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Effect sizes were calculated using Cliff’s delta (δ) for nonparametric comparisons. Results All performance metrics showed significant deterioration one month postinfection (p < 0.001). Partial or full recovery was observed at three months. While bench press and 10 m sprint performance returned to baseline levels, handgrip strength, 30 m sprint, and beep test scores remained significantly lower than pre-COVID values. In contrast, the non-COVID-19 group showed stable performance and better results across all time points. Conclusions SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with significant, but predominantly transient, impairments in strength, speed, and aerobic capacity in adolescent soccer players. Although most performance parameters showed partial or complete recovery at three months postinfection, persistent deficits were observed in grip strength and cardiovascular endurance. These results suggest that the neuromuscular and aerobic systems may require longer recovery periods in adolescents compared with other components of performance. Structured functional monitoring and individualized return-to-play protocols are essential to ensure a safe and effective return to sport activity after COVID-19.

#3 The relationship between the level of economic development, the scale of youth football development and competitive strength in Chinese provinces

Reference: PLoS One. 2026 Jan 28;21(1):e0340359. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0340359. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Peng Shi, Shunding Hu, Ziyun Zhang
Download link: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0340359
Summary: This study aims to explore the relationship between the economic development level of Chinese provinces, the scale of youth football development, and competitive strength. The data are derived from 31 provinces of China (excluding Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan). Indicators of economic development level include GDP, per capita GDP, per capita disposable income, and per capita consumption expenditure. Indicators of the scale of youth football development include the number of featured schools, the number of campus football fields, the level of football clubs in the three-tier league system, the number of social brand youth training institutions, and the number of sports schools. Indicators of youth football competitive strength include the number of top teams and elite teams in the Chinese Youth Football League. The study found that after controlling for total population size and youth population size, per capita disposable income showed a marginally significant positive correlation with both the number of top teams (r = 0.320, P = 0.091) and the number of elite teams (r = 0.359, P = 0.056); GDP (r = 0.458, P = 0.012), per capita GDP (r = 0.466, P = 0.011), per capita disposable income (r = 0.414, P = 0.026), and per capita consumption expenditure (r = 0.412, P = 0.026) all exhibited a moderately significant positive correlation with the number of social youth training institutions; per capita disposable income (r = -0.469, P = 0.010) and per capita consumption expenditure (r = -0.448, P = 0.015) showed a moderately significant negative correlation with the number of featured schools; the level of clubs in the three-tier league system displayed a highly significant positive correlation with both the number of top teams (r = 0.648, P < 0.001) and the number of elite teams (r = 0.778, P < 0.001); and the number of featured schools had a weakly significant negative correlation with the number of top teams (r = -0.369, P = 0.049). In addition, the level of clubs in the three-tier league system played a mediating role between economic indicators and competitive strength. The above research findings can provide a scientific basis for the Chinese government to optimize football policy orientations and the allocation of financial resources.

#4 Intra and inter variation in training load, recovery state and technical-tactical performance across a standard microcycle in Sub-elite youth football players

Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Jan 12:7:1720353. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2025.1720353. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Pedro Afonso, Pedro Forte, Luís Branquinho, Ricardo Ferraz, Nuno Domingos Garrido, José Eduardo Teixeira
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12833270/pdf/fspor-07-1720353.pdf
Summary: Monitoring youth football requires integrating physical, perceptual, recovery, and tactical dimensions. However, evidence in younger sub-elite cohorts (U11-U13) remains scarce. This study aimed to analyze intra and inter variation in external load, internal load, recovery, and technical-tactical indicators across a competitive microcycle, comparing U11 and U13 sub-elite players. We hypothesized that (i) the match would elicit the highest objective intensities, while training would be perceived as more demanding, and (ii) U13 players would outperform U11 in high-intensity and tactical outcomes, whereas U11 would show higher perceived exertion and greater motor irregularity. Forty male sub-elite players (U11 = 30; U13 = 10) were monitored across a competitive microcycle (MD-4 to MD). External load was assessed via GPS (TD, AvS, HSR, HID, sprints, MRS, ACC, DEC), internal load through HR (U13 only) and session-RPE, recovery via TQR, and technical-tactical performance using FUT-SAT (DMI, MEI). The match elicited the highest intensities in HSR, MRS, AvS, and HID, while all training sessions were perceived as ∼400 AU more demanding in sRPE than MD. U13 players outperformed U11 in intensity-and velocity-based measures (HSR +166%, sprints +150%, MRS +5%), while U11 showed higher TD (+10%), ACC (+23%), DEC (+29%), and sRPE (+6%). HR data in U13 revealed greater Z5 exposure in MD-4 vs. MD-1 and higher Z2 time on MD-1. In the tactical domain, U13 displayed superior offensive coverage effectiveness in both DMI and MEI, with no differences in other principles. These findings demonstrate that the microcycle followed a structured pattern, with matches concentrating objective intensity and training sessions eliciting greater perceived effort. Practically, training for U11 should emphasize motor efficiency and load regulation, while U13 programs should target high-intensity capacity and tactical coordination. Over time, integrating multidimensional monitoring (GPS, sRPE, TQR, FUT-SAT) may guide coaches in aligning training stimuli with long-term development goals, bridging physical, perceptual, and tactical competencies in sub-elite youth football.

#5 The role of perceived social support, self-efficacy, and psychological skills in psychological resilience: a theoretical model test on academy football players

Reference: Front Psychol. 2026 Jan 12:16:1716489. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1716489. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Anıl Siyahtaş, Cemal Güler, Ataman Tükenmez, Cemile Nihal Yurtseven, Özge Ercan, Suzan Dal, Ali Kaya
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12832850/pdf/fpsyg-16-1716489.pdf
Summary: Academy football players are continuously challenged in terms of their psychological resilience due to the high pressure competitive environment and developmental demands. In this context, key factors influencing athletes‘ psychological resilience include perceived social support, self-efficacy, and psychological skills. This study examined the effect of perceived social support on academy football players‘ psychological resilience, and the mediating roles of self-efficacy and psychological skills. Data were collected through voluntary surveys administered to football players in the academies of professional football clubs in Istanbul between August and September 2025. The study sample consisted of 430 academy players (n = 430) with a mean age of 15.67 ± 0.96 years. The factor structure of the measurement instruments was examined using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and the relationships among variables were tested through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The findings indicated that: (1) perceived social support had no direct significant effect on psychological resilience (95% CI [-0.015, 0.237]); (2) perceived social support exerted a significant direct effect on self-efficacy (β = 0.475; 95% CI [0.343, 0.589]); and (3) perceived social support indirectly and significantly influenced psychological resilience through self-efficacy and psychological skills (β = 0.226; 95% CI [0.158, 0.316]). These results suggest that perceived social support does not enhance resilience directly, but rather operates through athletes‘ self-efficacy beliefs and psychological skills. This highlights the importance of both environmental support and individual psychological resources during the transition to professionalism. Accordingly, coaches, mentors, and support staff in football academies are encouraged not only to provide social support but also to implement programs aimed at fostering athletes‘ self-efficacy.

#6 Comparison of Two Posterior Chain Strength Training Protocols on Performance and Injury Incidence in Elite Youth Football Players

Reference: Medicina (Kaunas). 2026 Jan 9;62(1):140. doi: 10.3390/medicina62010140.
Authors: Manuele Ferrini, José Asian-Clemente, Gabriele Bagattini, Luis Suarez-Arrones
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/62/1/140
Summary: This study compared the effects of two posterior-chain strength training strategies on eccentric hamstring strength, jump and sprint performance, and hamstring injury incidence in elite youth soccer players. Twenty-three players were randomly allocated to either a Nordic Hamstring Exercise Group (NHEG; n = 11) or a Deadlift + Leg Curl Slides Group (D + LCSG; n = 12). Both groups completed a 9-week in-season resistance training program consisting of one strength-oriented session (MD-4) and one power-oriented session (MD-2) per week, in addition to regular soccer training. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included eccentric hamstring strength (NordBord), countermovement jump (CMJ), and 10 m and 30 m linear sprint performance. Eccentric hamstring strength increased significantly only in the NHEG (p ≤ 0.05), though this improvement did not transfer to enhancements in jump or sprint performance (p > 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the D + LCSG for any variable (p > 0.05), and no between-group differences were found across all performance outcomes. During the 12-week monitoring period, one hamstring injury was recorded, occurring in the NHEG. These findings suggest that, while the NHE elicited greater exercise-specific eccentric strength gains, neither posterior-chain strategy produced improvements in sprint or jump performance. However, given the small sample size and low number of injury events, these trends cannot be attributed with certainty to the implemented protocols, and both programs reported a low incidence of hamstring injuries per 1000 h of exposure with no statistically protective effect associated with the use of the NHE.

#7 Interdependent Effect of Intrinsic Risk Factors on Non-Contact Lower Limb Injuries in Male Football Players: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach

Reference: Medicina (Kaunas). 2025 Dec 26;62(1):52. doi: 10.3390/medicina62010052.
Authors: Nikolaos I Liveris, Charis Tsarbou, George Papageorgiou, Elias Tsepis, Sofia A Xergia
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/62/1/52
Summary: Recent research has highlighted the importance of examining risk factors and their complex interrelationships in the development of lower limb injuries. This study aimed to investigate the direct, indirect, and mediating effects of endogenous neuromuscular and psychological risk factors on the incidence of non-contact lower limb injuries in football players. A sample of ninety-seven male football players underwent a structured preseason, on-field assessment. Demographic characteristics, injury history, and athlete burnout were collected through standardized questionnaires. Preseason evaluations included assessments of lower limb flexibility; isometric strength assessment of hamstring, hip abductors, and quadriceps using a handheld dynamometer; hamstring and core endurance; and the single-leg triple hop for distance test. All non-contact lower limb injuries were prospectively recorded throughout the competitive season. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method was applied to examine both direct and indirect associations between preseason risk factors and injury incidence. Lower limb strength asymmetries (path coefficient (PC) 0.293, p = 0.004) and previous injuries (PC 0.233, p = 0.015) exhibited the strongest direct effects on the occurrence of new non-contact lower limb injuries. In addition, age acted as a moderating factor, amplifying the effect of lower limb strength asymmetries on injury risk. Moreover, previous injuries demonstrated both direct and indirect effects on neuromuscular characteristics and perceived burnout. Core and hamstring endurance tended to influence new injuries indirectly through strength asymmetries and were significantly affected by hamstring strength (PC 0.248, p = 0.015) and prior injuries (PC -0.207, p = 0.029). Injury prevention strategies should prioritize the improvement of core and hamstring endurance and the reduction in lower limb Strength Asymmetries, particularly among older football players. Furthermore, individualized preventive interventions for athletes with a previous history of injury are strongly recommended.

#8 Identification of Performance Variables in Blind 5-A-Side Football: Physical Fitness, Physiological Responses, Technical-Tactical Actions and Recovery Variables: A Systematic Review

Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Jan 1;14(1):3. doi: 10.3390/sports14010003.
Authors: Boryi A Becerra-Patiño, Aura D Montenegro-Bonilla, Wilder Geovanny Valencia-Sánchez, Jorge Olivares-Arancibia, Rodrigo Yáñez-Sepúlveda, José Pino-Ortega
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/1/3
Summary: Blind 5-A-side football is an intermittent sport that requires the development of specific physical, physiological, and technical-tactical variables, making the identification of recovery processes such as sleep, well-being, and athletes‘ perceptions key factors in performance. However, to date, no systematic review has analyzed the scientific evidence on performance variables in players with visual impairments. The aim was to identify performance variables in blind 5-A-side football through the analysis of physical fitness factors, physiological demands, technical-tactical actions, and recovery variables. The following databases were consulted: Scopus, PubMed (Medline), Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. This systematic review follows the PRISMA guidelines and those for conducting systematic reviews in sports science. The PICOS strategy was used to select and include studies. The quality of the studies was assessed methodologically using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool. The included studies evaluated multiple aspects of physical and physiological fitness in blind 5-A-side football, with a predominance of descriptive and observational research, although longitudinal interventions in national teams were also identified. The most studied physiological-physical variables are aerobic capacity and cardiovascular response; anthropometry and body composition; strength, power, and injury risk; external competition demands; balance; and postural control. The studies in the technical-tactical dimension focused on the effectiveness of shots on goal and on the characterization of control, dribbling, and shooting actions. The most studied recovery variable was sleep. The evidence suggests that training processes should integrate both improvements in physical fitness and physiological demands, as well as the refinement of decision-making and offensive actions. Despite advances, scientific output in this discipline remains limited, highlighting the need to promote studies with greater methodological rigor and sample diversity.

#9 Understanding the walking football population: sociodemographic, health, lifestyle, and participation insights from a national tournament cohort

Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Jan 9:7:1744101. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2025.1744101. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Alfie G Price, Bradley Sprouse, Philip J Hennis, John Hough, Ali Ahmed, Thaila Hibberd, Ian Varley
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12827653/pdf/fspor-07-1744101.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to build a comprehensive understanding of who plays walking football and how participation relates to physical activity, well-being, and perceived health benefits, to assess its potential as a sustainable physical activity option for middle-aged and older adults. A cross-sectional, survey-based design examined the sociodemographic characteristics, health status, lifestyle behaviours, and participation experiences of 352 walking football players during The FA Walking Football Cup 2024 in England. Data were collected from six regional final events involving 84 teams. Participants (mean age: 56 years; 55.3% men, 43.6% women) reported a broad age range (33-81 years) and diverse socioeconomic backgrounds (16.6% from the most deprived 30% of areas), but ethnic diversity was limited (95.3% White vs. 81.7% nationally). Compared to national averages, more participants had a healthy weight (men: 31.5% vs. 19%; women: 50.8% vs. 30%) and met the UK physical activity guideline of ≥150 min/week of moderate aerobic activity (75% vs. 63%). Despite 47% reporting health conditions, 70.4% experienced no limitations in daily activities. Mental well-being scores were higher, and stress and loneliness levels were lower than national averages. Over three-quarters of participants reported increased physical activity since starting walking football, with perceived improvements in social connections (82.6%), physical fitness (78.0%), and mental well-being (73.8%). Walking football attracts a broad player base and may support healthy ageing, even among those with chronic conditions. Greater efforts are needed to improve ethnic representation, but findings support its value as a health-enhancing physical activity option for middle-aged and older adults.

#10 Motivational climate, self-determination, burnout, and mindfulness in adolescent football players from a professional academy in virtual settings

Reference: Front Psychol. 2026 Jan 8:16:1732005. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1732005. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Mario Reyes-Bossio, Natalia Veran-Casanova, Franco Ascenzo-Bravo de Rueda, Andy Sánchez-Villena, Mariel Delgado-Campusano, Veronica Tutte-Vallarino, Regina Brandão
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12823841/pdf/fpsyg-16-1732005.pdf
Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic shifted sports training to virtual formats, impacting athletes‘ motivation, well-being, and mental health. In this context, motivational climate, self-determined motivation, mindfulness, and burnout are key factors for understanding adolescents‘ psychological adjustment in football. This study employed a cross-sectional design, with all variables collected at a single time point during mandatory virtual training. This cross-sectional study surveyed 154 adolescent football players (M = 15.9 years) from a Peruvian professional academy during mandatory virtual training. Participants completed the EDMCQ-C, SMS, MAAS-5, and ABQ. A psychological network analysis was performed in R using non-regularized partial correlations and bootstrapped stability estimates. An empowering climate was positively associated with intrinsic motivation and mindfulness, whereas a disempowering climate was linked to extrinsic motivation and burnout. Extrinsic motivation emerged as the most central node in the network, and mindfulness functioned as a bridging node that buffered the spread of demotivation toward exhaustion. The model showed adequate stability (CS = 0.44). Empowering motivational climates and mindfulness protect adolescents‘ psychological wellbeing, whereas controlling coaching and extrinsic motivation heighten the risk of burnout. These findings support incorporating autonomy-supportive coaching and brief mindfulness practices in youth sport training and coach education programs.

#11 Flexor tendon avulsion and PIP joint fracture-dislocation in a 17-year-old football player: A case report

Reference: JPRAS Open. 2025 Dec 19:48:638-643. doi: 10.1016/j.jpra.2025.12.015. eCollection 2026 Mar.
Authors: Summer Aldabbeh, Taylor Calicchia, Andrew Esterle
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12829127/pdf/main.pdf
Summary: We present a rare case of flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) avulsion and dorsal fracture-dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint with an intact flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) in a 17-year-old high school football player. This unusual injury pattern, sustained during a sports collision, required prompt surgical intervention to restore tendon continuity and joint congruity. Early rehabilitation and an aggressive return-to-sport protocol yielded a successful outcome, with full functional recovery. A literature review reveals limited documentation of similar cases, underscoring the clinical importance of early recognition and operative management in athletes.

#12 Efficacy of post-exercise recovery strategies for elite soccer players: a network meta-analysis

Reference: Front Physiol. 2026 Jan 21:17:1760392. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2026.1760392. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Jie Liu, Qiang Li, Yu Han
Download link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1760392/full
Summary: This study aimed to systematically compare the efficacy of various recovery strategies for improving neuromuscular function, muscle damage, and subjective fatigue in elite soccer players following matches or validated simulations, and to provide evidence-based guidance for clinical practice. Following PRISMA-NMA guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus for randomized controlled trials evaluating post-match or post-simulation recovery strategies in professional and semi-professional soccer players. A Bayesian random-effects model was applied to conduct the network meta-analysis. Effect sizes were reported as mean differences (MD) with 95% credible intervals (CrI), and intervention efficacy was quantified using Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking (SUCRA) values. Twenty-three RCTs involving 388 participants and 17 recovery interventions were included. Key findings were as follows: (1) Far-infrared therapy (FIR) was most effective in improving Countermovement jump (CMJ) height (SUCRA = 98.3%); (2) Intermittent negative pressure therapy (INPT) produced the greatest reduction in Creatine kinase (CK) levels (SUCRA = 91.0%); (3) Portable cold compression therapy (PCMcold) had the strongest effect on alleviating Muscle soreness (MS) (SUCRA = 98.9%); (4) FIR and Intermittent vascular occlusion (IVO) significantly improved Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), although Hyperoxic gas (Hyp) ranked highest (SUCRA = 89.8%); and (5) no intervention significantly improved 20-m sprint performance (all 95% CrI included zero), and although IVO ranked first (SUCRA = 84.5%), its evidence reliability was low. Personalized post-match recovery in elite soccer should be based on specific targets. FIR is recommended for CMJ restoration, INPT for muscle damage repair, PCMcold for reducing subjective soreness, and FIR may be considered for MVC recovery. No superior intervention was identified for 20-m sprint recovery; therefore, basic recovery measures are advised. Future multi-arm RCTs are required to validate combined recovery strategies and standardize intervention parameters.

#13 Body language on the pitch: insights into soccer players‘ nonverbal behavior at the FIFA men’s World Cup 2022

Reference: Front Psychol. 2026 Jan 20:16:1699943. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1699943. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Ingrid Lian, Siv Gjesdal, Yanique Fletcher, Geir Jordet
Download link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1699943/full
Summary: Communication is an important aspect in team sports, yet there is a lack of studies looking at intrateam communication during performance. The aim of this study was therefore to explore soccer players‘ use of nonverbal behavior (NVB) at the FIFA men’s World Cup 2022. A total of 18,031 distinct NVBs were registered for 143 individual players from 33 games, representing all 32 participating national teams. NVB was divided into tactical and emotional categories. Several statistical tests were performed to investigate the relationship between NVB and potential constraints (e.g., game stage, game halves, roles in a team, geographical location of the national team). The results showed that players displayed more tactical than emotional NVB, and more negative than positive emotional NVB. Moreover, there were differences in NVB expression based on positional roles, but not between captains and other players. NVB expressions changed throughout a game but did not differ between group stage games and knockout games. There were no differences in NVB expressions based on the end result of a game. The findings provide the first empirical examination of quantified NVB of soccer players from the World Cup context. The methodology and findings can be useful for soccer managers, psychologists, researchers and analysts to include psychological measures into game analyses.

#14 The effects of French contrast method on explosive power and speed-related skills in female soccer players: a randomized controlled trial

Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2026 Feb 5. doi: 10.1186/s13102-026-01576-1. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Tahir Volkan Aslan, Yalin Aygun, Sakir Tufekci, Fatma Hilal Yagin, Hakan Buyukcelebi, Irshad Ahmad, Luca Paolo Ardigò
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s13102-026-01576-1_reference.pdf

#15 Outcomes of soccer-related concussion: A systematic review

Reference: J Sci Med Sport. 2026 Jan 23:S1440-2440(26)00040-X. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2026.01.012. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Neeve-Rose Stubbs, Heather Francis, Rob Duffield, Jordan Sibley, Vincent Oxenham
Download link: https://www.jsams.org/action/showPdf?pii=S1440-2440%2826%2900040-X
Summary: The aim was to systematically review the outcomes of sport-related concussion in soccer players. A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Academic Search Premier, EMBASE, Scopus, and CINAHL. Two reviewers independently screened articles against inclusion criteria and assessed risk of bias. Studies published before 13 February 2025 that investigated post-concussive symptoms, symptom duration and resolution, return-to-play (RTP) time, or neurocognitive outcomes following soccer-related concussion (SoRC) were included. A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. Head-to-player contact was the most common mechanism of injury. Defenders and midfielders had the highest total number of concussions, whilst goalkeepers had the highest risk relative to their numbers on the field. Common post-concussive symptoms included headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. These symptoms generally resolved within one to four weeks, although prevalence and duration varied across studies. RTP time ranged from one week to three weeks in adults and was longer in youth, with some evidence of slower RTP in females. Neurocognitive outcomes were inconsistent, with some studies reporting poorer performance on tasks involving attention, memory, planning, and visuoperception, whilst others found no significant changes. The literature on outcomes following SoRC remains mixed. The limited and inconsistent evidence across symptoms, recovery, and neurocognitive domains highlights the need for standardised measures and more longitudinal studies to guide clinical management and the development of RTP protocols. 

#16 Evaluating models of athlete development through assessment of within- and between-sport and activity variability among competitive female youth soccer athletes

Reference: Sci Med Footb. 2026 Feb 3:1-19. doi: 10.1080/24733938.2026.2622620. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Carrie M Peters, Porter M Trevisan, Nicola J Hodges
Summary: The balance of primary sport practice and multisport participation during childhood for later success in sport has been debated in models of athlete development. Various mechanisms have been proposed regarding why activity diversity would aid development, including motivation. Here we test this mechanism by assessing childhood sport and other types of activity diversity (within-sport and non-sport activity) among female competitive adolescent athletes in soccer (N = 211; 12-19 yr) and measures of motivation. Athletes in four skill groups (grassroots/Div. 2 to Nationally competitive) completed an online survey about their practice history in soccer (number of teams, positions and play hours), other sports and non-sport activities, and motivation and commitment. Not surprisingly, higher skill groups participated in more childhood soccer practice than lower skill groups, but they showed less sport diversity and there were no differences in non-sport activity participation. The higher skill groups reported more soccer play and more team diversity than lower groups, but showed greater position specialization in childhood. Total (and relative) hours in soccer practice and play (compared to non-soccer) were positively correlated with soccer motivation. These data are consistent with pathways of skill development in soccer based on early majority engagement in the primary sport; without exclusive engagement and high amounts of play. Sampling between sport or other activities was not related to skill or motivation, so there was no evidence of between-activity transfer related to enhanced motivation for soccer.

#17 Time-course of muscular stress and fatigue markers following different soccer small-sided games: evidence from a randomized crossover study

Reference: Front Public Health. 2026 Jan 16:13:1767991. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1767991. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Xiaoshuang Wang, Yongxing Zhao, Yuqing Duan, Qiling Qiu
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12857308/pdf/fpubh-13-1767991.pdf
Summary: High-intensity exercises with substantial mechanical demands can contribute to greater muscular loading, potentially increasing fatigue and potentially increasing fatigue and requiring careful load-management for preventing injury and enhancing recovery planning. This study aimed to compare the effects of 2v2, 4v4, and 6v6 small-sided games (SSG) formats on muscle stiffness, creatine kinase levels, and reactive strength index (RSI) immediately post-exercise and 24 hours thereafter. A randomized crossover design evaluated 36 male under-23 players from two regional-level amateur football teams. Participants completed 2v2, 4v4, and 6v6 over three weeks in a counterbalanced sequence, with assessments at baseline, immediately after, and 24 hours post-session. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was always assessed after SSGs, while muscle stiffness, creatine kinase and RSI were measured in all the time points. Muscle stiffness was higher in 2v2 than 4v4 (MD = 21.722, p < .001) and 6v6 (MD = 19.514, p = .002) at 24h (F = 9.346, p < .001, ηp2 = .151). Creatine kinase was greater in 2v2 across both time points (all p < .001), while RSI was lowest in 2v2 (F = 29.313, p < .001, ηp2 = .358). RPE was significantly highest in 2v2 (F = 42.490, p < .001), and showed strong correlations with CK (r > .63, p < .001), moderate with stiffness (r = .314), and negative with RSI (r = -.344, p < .001). The results suggest that 2v2 games lead to significantly higher muscle stiffness and perceived exertion, while eliciting higher CK levels and lower RSI compared to 4v4 and 6v6 formats. This suggests that small-sided games impose greater neuromuscular and muscular stress, likely due to the higher intensity typical of these formats. Coaches may therefore consider these demands when managing training loads and when planning recovery to potentially reduce excessive residual fatigue and support readiness.

#18 Effects of an eight-week neuro-athletic training program on passing accuracy, shooting precision, flexibility, and isokinetic knee strength in male soccer players: A randomized controlled trial

Reference: J Sci Med Sport. 2026 Jan 23:S1440-2440(26)00041-1. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2026.01.013. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Ali Polat Cakici, Numan Alpay, Caglar Soylu
Summary: The aim was to investigate the effects of an eight-week neuro-athletic training (NAT) program, in addition to usual football training, on passing accuracy, shooting precision, flexibility, and isokinetic knee strength in competitive male soccer players. Parallel-group, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial with pre-test/post-test measurements. Outdoor synthetic football pitch in Balıkesir, Türkiye, during the 2023-2024 Turkish Regional Amateur League season. Fifty-six male soccer players (mean age 20.7 ± 1.8 years) competing in the Turkish Regional Amateur League were randomly allocated to a NAT group (n = 26) or a control group (n = 30) using computer-generated block randomization with concealed allocation (sealed opaque envelopes). Both groups continued their regular team training; the NAT group additionally performed three NAT sessions per week for eight weeks. Primary outcomes were passing accuracy and shooting precision, assessed with standardized field tests (Mor-Christian passing and shooting tests). Secondary outcomes were hamstring-lumbar flexibility (sit-and-reach test) and concentric isokinetic knee strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings at 60°/s and 180°/s, including hamstring-to-quadriceps ratios, measured with an isokinetic dynamometer and normalized to body mass (Nm/kg). All assessments were performed at baseline and after eight weeks by an assessor blinded to group allocation. Groups were comparable at baseline for age, anthropometric characteristics, training experience, and all performance measures (all p > 0.05). After eight weeks, the neuro-athletic training (NAT) group demonstrated significantly greater improvements than the control group in passing accuracy (9.25 ± 1.52 vs. 8.15 ± 1.69 points; ΔΔ = +0.75; p = 0.037; Cohen’s d = 0.57; 95% CI [0.05, 1.45]), shooting precision (36.85 ± 8.24 vs. 29.77 ± 11.62 points; ΔΔ = +6.07; p = 0.007; d = 0.75; 95% CI [1.73, 10.41]), and sit-and-reach flexibility (30.12 ± 3.21 vs. 22.50 ± 2.12 cm; ΔΔ = +7.64; p < 0.001; d = 2.15; 95% CI [5.73, 9.55]). Isokinetic strength outcomes also favored the NAT group, with larger gains in quadriceps and hamstring peak torque at 60°/s (quadriceps ΔΔ = +40.18 N·m; p < 0.001; d = 1.75; 95% CI [28.21, 52.15]; hamstrings ΔΔ = +24.39 N·m; p < 0.001; d = 1.05; 95% CI [12.01, 36.77]) and in hamstring strength at 180°/s (ΔΔ = +5.18 N·m; p = 0.045; d = 0.55; 95% CI [0.12, 10.24]). Favorable changes were also observed in hamstring-to-quadriceps ratios at both velocities (60°/s: ΔΔ = +0.08; p = 0.025; 95% CI [0.01, 0.16]; 180°/s: ΔΔ = +0.09; p = 0.003; 95% CI [0.03, 0.14]). An eight-week neuro-athletic training program, added to regular football training, produced greater improvements in passing accuracy, shooting precision, flexibility, and isokinetic knee strength than standard training alone in competitive male soccer players. These findings support the integration of structured neuro-athletic training into in-season performance programs.

#19 Comparison of plyometric repeated sprint and plyometric aerobic training on physical performance in youth soccer players

Reference: Sci Rep. 2026 Jan 31. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-37000-4. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Mohamed Amin Selmi, Raouf Hammami, Halil İbrahim Ceylan, Michael Duncan, Radhouane Haj Sassi, Ryland Morgans, Serdar Bayrakdaroğlu, Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
Download link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-37000-4_reference.pdf
Summary: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and repeated-sprint sets (RSS) are established conditioning methods in soccer, yet their integration with plyometric training among highly trained youth soccer players remains underexplored. This study investigated the effects of an 8-week program combining plyometric training with either RSS (PLYO-RSS) or HIIT (PLYO-HIIT) on physical fitness in young soccer players. Twenty-nine male players (14-15 years) were randomly assigned to PLYO-RSS (n = 14) or PLYO-HIIT (n = 15). Both interventions lasted 20 minutes per session and replaced part of regular soccer training. Physical fitness assessments included countermovement jump (CMJ), 15-s repeated vertical jumps (15“RJ), five-jump test (5JT), 10 m and 30 m sprint, maximal aerobic speed (MAS), VO2max, and repeated sprint performance (total sprint time, best sprint, fatigue index). Physiological markers (lactate, rating of perceived exertion, and HRmax) were also monitored. Significant improvements over time were observed in muscle power, sprint speed, aerobic capacity, and repeated-sprint ability (p ≤ 0.001; η²p = 0.339-0.489). However, no main effects or group × time interaction effects were observed, indicating no evidence of differential responses between the two training modes. In conclusion, integrating plyometric training with either RSS or HIIT effectively enhances physical fitness in highly trained youth soccer players, offering flexible options for training prescription.

#20 Higher Incidence and Longer Recovery Time from Non-Contact Muscle Injuries in ACTN3 XX Genotype Players from a Soccer Academy: A Three-Season Longitudinal Study

Reference: Sports Med Open. 2026 Jan 31;12(1):7. doi: 10.1186/s40798-026-00978-2.
Authors: Benjamin Barthelemy, Guillaume Ravé, Juan Del Coso, Ayoub Saeidi, El Mokhtar El Ouali, Benoit Bideau, Urs Granacher, Hassane Zouhal
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12860777/pdf/40798_2026_Article_978.pdf
Summary: The purpose of this study was to examine whether the ACTN3 R577X polymorphism was associated with injury rate and recovery time from non-contact muscle injuries in youth academy players and professional soccer players. The ACTN3 rs1815739 genotype was identified in 76 male soccer players (22 professional, 27 U19 and 27 U17) from a top-level French soccer club. Over three consecutive competitive seasons (2020/21 to 2022/23), the players were prospectively monitored. The club’s medical staff systematically recorded all injuries sustained during soccer exposure. Injury incidence was calculated based on total soccer exposure, and return-to-play time (RTT) for each injury was determined by the medical staff. A total of 312 injuries were documented, including 144 non-contact muscle injuries. Injury incidence rates (IRs) and rate ratios (RRs) were compared across player genotypes, both overall and within each category, using Poisson or negative binomial regression models with exposure time as an offset. RTT was analyzed by genotype using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Overall genotype distribution was RR, 52.6%; RX, 30.3%; and XX, 17.1%. Across all players, XX carriers had the highest injury incidence (8.54 [6.54-10.39]/1000 h) followed by RX players (6.65 [5.39-7.91]/1000 h) and RR players (5.15 [4.35-5.95]/1000 h), although these differences did not reach statistical significance. The RRs for XX compared with RR players was 1.66 (95% CI: 0.85-3.23, p = 0.140), indicating a non-significant tendency toward higher incidence in XX players. However, RTT differed significantly among genotypes (p = 0.007), with median [IQR] values of 13 [10, 16] days for RR, 16 [14, 22] days for RX, and 18 [13, 19] days for XX. Subgroup analyses showed that RTT differences were significant in U17 players (p = 0.004), with XX requiring longer recovery (23 days) compared to RR players (11 days). However, these genotype-related differences in RTT were not significant among professional soccer players. The ACTN3 R577X polymorphism was associated with recovery characteristics following non-contact muscle injuries in soccer players. Specifically, players with the XX genotype required significantly longer return-to-play times, a pattern evident in youth academy players but not in the professional group.

#21 Multiligament knee injury and dislocation in a 17-year old football player: clinical focus on rehabilitation exercise and return to sport

Reference: J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2025 Dec;69(4):396-413. Epub 2025 Dec 30.
Authors: Noah Lane, George Austin Rees, Kevin D’Angelo
Summary: The aim was to highlight the rehabilitation exercises of a football player following surgical reconstruction of a multi-ligament knee injury (MLKI) with vascular compromise. A 17-year-old male high school football player sustained a traumatic MLKI requiring immediate limb saving surgery and subsequent tissue repair. Post-operatively, he engaged in an interdisciplinary phased and structured rehabilitation program with an emphasis on progressive loading, neuromuscular control and return-to-sport (RTS) readiness. At eight months post-op the athlete returned to a United States prepatory school where he transitioned to an external strength and conditioning program. This case report illustrates the complexities and value of an interdisciplinary and individualized rehabilitation program in the early stages of MLKI recovery. Outcomes were positive through eight months, but there were limitations related to the continuity of care that prevented long-term follow up.