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 Structural and Network Adaptations in Visuospatial Cortical Regions of Elite Soccer Players: A Morphometric and Structural Covariance Network Study
Reference: Brain Topogr. 2026 Feb 12;39(2):22. doi: 10.1007/s10548-026-01173-y.
Authors: Jie Chen, Xiaochun Wang
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10548-026-01173-y.pdf
Summary: Regular physical exercise induces neuroplastic adaptations that may enhance cognitive function. However, the long-term impact of soccer training on brain structure and network organization remains unclear. This study investigated structural brain adaptations in elite soccer players using voxel-based morphometry (VBM), surface-based morphometry (SBM), and structural covariance network (SCN) analysis. High-resolution MRI was acquired from 31 elite soccer players and 30 matched non-athlete controls. Compared to controls, athletes showed increased gray matter volume in the left calcarine sulcus, greater cortical thickness in the left pericalcarine cortex, and reduced sulcal depth in the bilateral precentral gyrus. Cortical thickness in the pericalcarine cortex was positively correlated with training years, while sulcal depth in the right precentral gyrus was negatively associated with weekly training hours. Although global SCN metrics did not differ between groups, athletes exhibited significantly higher nodal efficiency in the right cuneus and right lateral occipital cortex-key regions for visuospatial processing. SCN robustness under targeted and random attacks was comparable across groups. These findings suggest region-specific differences in neuroplasticity and local network efficiency, which may be consistent with the neural efficiency hypothesis and warrant further investigation into the potential role of long-term soccer training in visuospatial processing.
2 Acute effects of the FIFA 11+ warm up protocol on distal mechanical and physiological tissue properties and performance in male and female soccer players
Reference: Phys Sportsmed. 2026 Feb 17:1-9. doi: 10.1080/00913847.2026.2631370. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Patricia Caudet Sánchez, Ernest Baiget, Abraham Batalla Gavalda, Joshua Colomar, Corbi Soler Francisco
Summary: Soccer is one of the sports with the highest number of injuries in both sexes with a prevalence of 13% around the ankle-foot area. Various strategies have been proposed to prevent injuries like FIFA 11+ warm-up. Its reliability has been questioned due to the diversity of results obtained depending on the movement pattern studied and the body region analyzed. Few studies have analyzed its acute effects on distal structures, such as plantar soft tissue properties, local perfusion or temperature. The objective of this study was to determine the acute effects of performing the FIFA 11+ on mechanical and physiological properties in ankle-foot regions. The sample included 120 amateur men and women soccer players. Various mechanical properties of the muscle and tendon such as oxygen saturation in the muscle, skin temperature, range of motion of the ankle and maximum isometric force of the toes were analyzed, before and after performing the FIFA 11 + . Results: indicate the absence of significant differences in any of the variables analyzed, except for the mechanical response of the plantar fascia (p < 0.0014). Conclusion: FIFA 11+ may not provide a sufficiently strong local stimulus to generate mechanical and metabolic responses in the different structures of the foot and ankle, even though it remains an established long-term injury-prevention programme. Other warm-up strategies to enhance its effects may consider incorporating.
3 NeuroSwift: computer vision-based system to assess the cognitive-motor speed of soccer players-preliminary findings
Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Jan 27:7:1724873. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2025.1724873. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Fabián Moya-Vergara, Ignacio Barrera-Gutiérrez, Pablo Arriaza-Marholz, Eduardo Piñones-Zuleta, Teresa Valverde-Esteve, Juan García-Manso, Enrique Arriaza-Ardiles, Marcos Zúñiga-Barraza
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12887892/pdf/fspor-07-1724873.pdf
Summary: Cognitive-motor speed (CMS) in soccer integrates perceptual-cognitive processing with motor execution, yet many tools lack this integration and have limited ecological validity. NeuroSwift was engineered as a computer vision-based automated analysis platform to standardize tactical stimuli and produce reproducible measurements. A 3 × 3 interaction surface, front-facing visual stimuli, and HD video were orchestrated by a web application. Twenty-nine players (15 professionals, 14 university athletes) completed 16 scenarios (8 offensive, 8 defensive). Visuomotor reaction speed (VMRS), displacement speed (DS), and response capacity (RC) were obtained, and cognitive-motor speed (CMS = VMRS + DS, in seconds) was computed. Normality and homogeneity were verified using Shapiro-Wilk and Levene’s tests. VMRS and DS were compared using independent-samples t-tests (Bonferroni α = 0.0167). RC and CMS were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Effect sizes were estimated. All tests were two-tailed, and confidence intervals were estimated where applicable. Professionals showed faster VMRS (0.77 ± 0.12 vs. 0.96 ± 0.12 s; p < 0.001; d = 0.79), whereas university players showed faster DS (0.64 ± 0.06 vs. 0.76 ± 0.11 s; p < 0.001; d = -0.71). RC favored professionals (median 100.00% vs. 93.75%; Z = 3.13; p < 0.001; r = 0.58). CMS tended to favor professionals (median 1.53 s vs. 1.61 s) without significance (Z = -0.544; p > 0.05; r = 0.10). NeuroSwift enabled standardized stimuli, automated footstep detection, and reproducible in situ laboratory metrics. Expertise was discriminated in perceptual-cognitive and decision components, supporting athlete monitoring, training prescription, and applied research.
4 Risk of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Female Soccer Players With Increased Lateral Plantar Loading and Reduced Medial Metatarsal Loading During Running: A Prospective Study
Reference: Orthop J Sports Med. 2026 Feb 9;14(2):23259671251413278. doi: 10.1177/23259671251413278. eCollection 2026 Feb.
Authors: Seira Takei, Shuji Taketomi, Kohei Kawaguchi, Yuri Mizutani, Ryota Yamagami, Kenichi Kono, Tomofumi Kage, Takahiro Arakawa et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12886738/pdf/10.1177_23259671251413278.pdf
Summary: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common among female soccer players and often result in long-term absence from sport. Despite extensive studies on ACL injury mechanisms, no prospective studies have investigated the distribution of dynamic plantar loading during running in players who later sustain ACL injuries. The aim was to prospectively investigate the characteristics of plantar pressure during running in female soccer players who sustained ACL injuries. A total of 121 female high school and collegiate soccer players with no history of ACL injury were enrolled. Dynamic plantar loading distribution during running was measured at baseline. Participants were monitored for 1 year and classified into an ACL injury group (ACL group) or a control group (CON group) with no injuries. Plantar pressure was analyzed across 6 regions of the foot: medial and lateral regions of the forefoot, midfoot (metatarsal), and hindfoot. Cumulative load, peak force, and the medial-to-lateral force ratio were compared between the groups. The ACL group (11 players, 13 limbs) demonstrated significantly lower cumulative loading at the first and second medial metatarsal regions compared to the CON group (100 players, 200 limbs). The median cumulative load (N/kg) adjusted for body weight at the first metatarsal was 158.46 in the ACL group and 208.97 in the CON group (P = .01). At the second metatarsal, the values were 127.76 and 153.23, respectively (P = .04). The medial-to-lateral force ratio (%) was significantly lower in the ACL group (82.5%) than in the CON group (97.3%, P = .03). Female soccer players who sustained ACL injuries exhibited reduced medial metatarsal loading and a lower medial-to-lateral plantar force ratio during running. These findings suggest that altered plantar loading patterns may contribute to ACL injury risk.
5 Benevolent paternalism and player transition in Fiji soccer: insights from the Global South
Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Jan 27:8:1678889. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2026.1678889. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Kieran E James, Henry D Tuidraki, Sheikh A Tanzil
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12886475/pdf/fspor-08-1678889.pdf
Summary: Because Fiji is a relatively poor and remote Global South developing country, it is plagued by poor infrastructure, financial problems, and a lack of trained experts who also can relate to athletes in a culturally appropriate manner. In this article, we compare Global North coaching practices with traditional practices in Fiji, which are based mostly on benevolent paternalism and cultural hegemony. A specific focus is the transition of athletes into retirement. Case studies of Nadi Soccer Association and Ba Football Association are utilized based on ethnographic data obtained from seven interviews with ex-players, one interview with an ex-administrator, and one interview with an ex-team doctor as well as extended participant-observation. The Fiji Football Association (FFA) is seen as working hard now to consider the mental and physical welfare of ex-players after a slow start although the primary initiatives have come from ex-player self-help organizations such as Nadi Legends Club. Although better sport coaching and sport psychology can contribute, they need to be conducted in a culturally appropriate way where Indigenous Fijian and Fiji Indian cultures are worked with, and benevolently paternal administrators and coaches are not cast aside or marginalized.
6 Implementation and utility of an online psychological assessment tool in youth soccer players: a one-year longitudinal study
Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Jan 26:8:1733902. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2026.1733902. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Takashi Sano, Yuki Hamano
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12883758/pdf/fspor-08-1733902.pdf
Summary: Most studies on digital tools for assessing psychological states in sports have focused on screening athletes who show pathological tendencies, while few have examined their potential use for team management or coaching strategies. Moreover, little evidence exists regarding long-term, voluntary use among youth athletes. This study introduced an online psychological assessment system into a youth sports team to examine the effectiveness of digital tools for monitoring athletes‘ psychological states, based on usage patterns and assessment results. Participants were 81 male soccer academy athletes aged 12-17 years. Analyses were conducted on annual participation frequency, overall score trends, intraindividual variability, and the relationships between motivation to continue participation and satisfaction measures. The athletes completed the assessments an average of 4.16 times over the year, but participation rates declined in the latter half of the period. The variance in relationship with coach and satisfaction with growth increased during the competitive season. Satisfaction with life and satisfaction with time in daily life showed large intraindividual fluctuations. Satisfaction with growth, relationship with coach, satisfaction with life, and satisfaction with time in daily life significantly influenced motivation to continue participation. These results indicate that psychological assessment tools may be useful for tracking seasonal changes in athletes‘ psychological states, enabling early detection of dissatisfaction or concerns beyond team activities, and guiding the prioritization of support to promote sustained sport participation. Digital tools enabling regular psychological monitoring can reduce respondent burden, complement coaches‘ expertise, and serve as effective resources for team management and mental health support.
7 Editorial: Theory and practice of soccer psychology
Reference: Front Psychol. 2026 Jan 26:17:1782541. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1782541. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Erkut Konter, Garry Kuan, Itay Basevitch, Erwin Apitzsch
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12883830/pdf/fpsyg-17-1782541.pdf
8 Gore-Tex Membrane Augmentation for Treatment of Acute Patellar Tendon Rupture in a Soccer Player – A Case Report
Reference: J Orthop Case Rep. 2026 Feb;16(2):80-84. doi: 10.13107/jocr.2026.v16.i02.6752.
Authors: Anzano Francesco, Vitali Matteo
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884267/pdf/JOCR-16-2-80.pdf
Summary: Patellar tendon rupture is a serious injury affecting the knee extensors and often requires surgical repair with graft augmentation, which lengthen return to sports not sooner than 6 months. We, hereby, describe a case of an active male presenting with sudden knee pain and inability to flex the knee during a soccer match. Clinical examination and imaging were positive for complete patellar tendon rupture. Surgical treatment consisted of tendon repair and side-to-side augmentation with Gore-Tex membrane. Weight-bearing was allowed from day 1, knee flexion after 1 month, and weightlifting and running after 2 months. In 3 months, return to sport was achieved, a time shorter with respect to conventional techniques. This case report highlights the possibility of shorter return to sport with this new technique.
9 Evening smartphone exposure impairs sleep quality and next-day performance in elite soccer players: a randomized controlled trial
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Aug 29:43:227-242. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2026.152348. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Nadia Dridi, Mohamed Abdelkader Souissi, Rim Dridi, Halil İbrahim Ceylan, Nicola Luigi Bragazzi, Atef Salem, Sofien Fekih et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884903/pdf/JBS-43-56337.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to examine the effects of pre-bedtime smartphone use on sleep quality and athletic performance in soccer players while also investigating potential time-of-day variations. In this randomized controlled crossover trial, 16 male elite-level players were assigned to either use a smartphone for two hours prior to bedtime or read magazines (control), separated by a one-week washout period. Participants completed morning and afternoon performance tests (cognitive and physical assessments) and sleep quality measurements. Nocturnal smartphone use significantly impaired sleep quality, increasing sleepiness after days 3 and 5 (p < 0.01; d=5.74, d=5.72, respectively), decreasing total sleep time, increasing sleep onset latency, and reducing sleep efficiency (all p < 0.01; d=1, d=4.59). Cognitive performance initially showed improved afternoon results, although following five days of smartphone use, this pattern reversed with enhanced morning performance (p < 0.01; d=0.53, d=1.48). Simple and choice reaction times deteriorated significantly in afternoon sessions compared to both baseline and control conditions (p < 0.01; d=0.96-3.47). Physical performance tests revealed decreased jumping ability and slower reactive agility times following five nights of smartphone use, particularly in afternoon sessions (p < 0.01; d=0.85-0.91). Five consecutive nights of pre-bedtime smartphone use impaired sleep quality and both cognitive and physical performance in elite soccer players, with stronger effects in afternoon sessions. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing device-free periods prior to bedtime and potentially adjusting training schedules when evening screen exposure is unavoidable. Future research should explore countermeasures for managing evening device exposure in elite athletes.
10 A new conceptual framework for managing hamstring injury risk in soccer – implementing a data-informed approach: a narrative review
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Sep 16:43:329-353. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.151660. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Guglielmo Pillitteri, Filipe Manuel Clemente, Marco Petrucci, Hugo Sarmento, Antonio Figueiredo, Tindaro Bongiovanni, Antonino Bianco, Giuseppe Battaglia, Tim J Gabbett
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884901/pdf/JBS-43-56167.pdf
Summary: The multifactorial and complex nature of athletic injuries complicates the establishment of clear cause-and-effect relationships, making it challenging to pinpoint precise injury aetiology in the operational field. Research has explored the connection between injuries and training load (TL), identifying an association between high external loads (EL)-such as high-speed running (HSR) and sprinting-and non-contact hamstring injuries. Despite this, injury prevention remains largely ineffective, possibly reflecting a gap between scientific knowledge and practical application, as well as cognitive biases in translating research into real-world scenarios. This paper aims to: 1) summarize key findings on non-contact injuries in soccer, focusing on risk factors and the TL-injury relationship; 2) describe major conceptual frameworks and highlight cognitive biases when attributing injuries exclusively to TL; 3) propose new conceptual frameworks for non-contact injuries, with a primary focus on hamstring injuries. Using a qualitative approach, we present a multilevel causation framework that underscores the significant-but not exclusive-role of sprinting and TL in injury occurrence. We introduce two key concepts: acute mechanical load tissue exposure (AMLTE), referring to the peak acute mechanical stress a muscle can tolerate, and chronic muscle tolerance to load (CMTTL), representing the capacity to endure load over time. We aimed to support a data-informed approach to injury risk management and TL monitoring in daily practice. While we stress that TL and sprinting are not the sole causes of injury, we assert their relevance within a multifactorial model. This framework may assist professionals in developing more effective training strategies and injury prevention practices.
11 Relationship between aerobic performance and match running performance in elite soccer players including playing position and contextual factors
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Aug 29:43:213-225. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2026.153311. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Jakub Kryściak, Tomas Maly, Maciej Tomczak, Toni Modric, James Malone, František Zahálka, Christian Clarup, Kirk Phillips, Marcin Andrzejewski
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884899/pdf/JBS-43-56516.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to examine the association between aerobic performance (AP) and match running performance (MRP) in elite soccer players when statistically controlling for playing position and contextual factors. AP was tested at the beginning of the season, including maximal oxygen uptake ( ˙VO2max ), anaerobic threshold (AnT), maximal aerobic speed (MAS), and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 2 (Yo-Yo IRT2) score. MRP was measured using GPS over a competitive half-season for a total of 216 match performances in elite soccer players, divided into central backs (CBs), full backs (FBs), central midfielders (CMs), wide midfielders (WMs), and strikers. The lowest AP measures were noted among the CBs, while the highest ˙VO2max , AnT, and MAS were recorded among the CMs, CMs and FBs, and FBs, respectively. The CBs had the lowest total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR; 19.8-25.1 km · h-1) distance, and high-intensity running (HIR; > 19.8 km · h-1) distance; the CMs recorded the greatest TD; and the FBs and WMs covered the greatest HIR distance. Despite the differences in AP and MRP among the players, AP is correlated with MRP independently of the playing position and contextual factors. Higher AP measures were positively associated with the TD, and higher Yo-Yo IRT2 scores were also positively associated with the HSR and HIR distances. The strongest predictors for TD were ˙VO2max and AnT. In conclusion, a higher AP, irrespective of playing position, makes it possible to achieve greater MRPs. This study emphasized the value of integrating AP metrics into individualized training and player role management in elite soccer.
12 Inter-limb asymmetry across multiple soccer tasks varies with maturity status in young players: a cross-sectional study
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Sep 16:43:369-378. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2026.154159. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Hamza Marzouki, Bilel Cherni, Alâa Edine Sassi, Anissa Bouassida, Ezdine Bouhlel, Yung-Sheng Chen, Karim Chamari
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884880/pdf/JBS-43-56671.pdf
Summary: Biological maturation is one of the determinants influencing physical performance, yet its impact on asymmetry in soccer-specific tasks remains poorly understood. This cross-sectional study investigated the effects of biological maturation on inter-limb asymmetry in lower limb muscle volume (LLMV), linear and changeof-direction (COD) sprints (with and without the ball), jump performance, and dynamic balance. The agreement between asymmetry indices in dribbling tasks was assessed using Kappa coefficients to determine the consistency of asymmetry direction across tasks. Eighty-three young male soccer players (Pre-PHV: n = 42, Circa-PHV: n = 30, Post-PHV: n = 11) performed (1) 10-m sprint and 90° COD tests with- (S10drib and CODdrib, respectively) and without the ball (S10run and CODrun, respectively), (2) bilateral and unilateral countermovement jumps, and (3) the Y-balance test. Asymmetry indices were calculated for all performance measures. The Pre-PHV players showed greater asymmetry in S10drib, CODdrib, and CODdrib-Deficit than Circa- and Post-PHV (p < 0.05). The S10drib-Deficit asymmetry was higher in Pre-PHV players than that of Circa-PHV players (p = 0.038), while Post-PHV players had lower CODdrib asymmetry than Circa-PHV players (p = 0.016). Balance asymmetry was greater in Post-PHV players than their counterparts (p < 0.05). Kappa coefficients showed fair to moderate agreement between asymmetry directions in S10drib and CODdrib, and between their respective deficits, indicating task-specific asymmetry consistency. These findings underscore the need for maturation-specific training strategies, with early-maturing players benefiting from targeted neuromuscular training, while older players should focus on balance and sport-specific drills to manage asymmetry and injury prevention.
13 Nutrition as a missing piece in the development of youth male soccer players: a scoping review and future directions
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Sep 9:43:291-317. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.151654. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Diogo V Martinho, Oliver Gonzalo-Skok, Karim Chamari, Adam Field, Filipe Manuel Clemente, André Rebelo, Élvio R Gouveia, Vitor Hugo Teixeira, Piotr Zmijewski, Pedro Mendes, Pedro Campos, Hugo Sarmento
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884894/pdf/JBS-43-56161.pdf
Summary: The literature on nutrition in soccer has extensively focused on adult male and female soccer players, while knowledge regarding nutritional issues in youth soccer players remains limited. This review aims to summarize the findings related to nutritional habits and ergogenic aid practices among male youth soccer players. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) Checklist, four databases were consulted on September 17, 2024. Studies that included youth soccer players and examined daily energy intake or expenditure, as well as the effects of ergogenic aids on performance, met the eligibility criteria for this review. In total, 42 studies were considered. Among these, 22 studies focused on energy expenditure and dietary intake, while 20 studies investigated the effects of ergogenic aids on performance. Overall, a negative energy balance was observed; however, after adjusting for the underestimation of energy intake, an adequate intake compared to energy expenditure was found in this review. Additionally, carbohydrate intake tended to decrease with age, while protein intake remained stable throughout adolescence. The topic of macronutrient periodization in youth players requires further research, as no data is currently available regarding macronutrient intake. Additionally, data concerning the effects of ergogenic aids on performance is limited due to variability in methodological procedures. Nevertheless, caffeine and creatine appear to have a positive effect on physical capabilities. This review provides reference data for nutritionists working with youth soccer players and highlights the need for future research in this area.
14 The effectiveness of differential learning in small-sided soccer games for skill development in U20 amateur male players
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Aug 29:43:199-211. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.151661. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Jaouher Hamaidi, Wissem Dhahbi, Mohamed Mansour Bouzourraa, Noomen Guelmami, Mohamed Ben Aissa, Wassim Moalla, Ismail Dergaa, Katja Weiss, Thomas Rosemann, Beat Knechtle, Makrem Zghibi
Summary: Traditional soccer training relies on repetitive drills, while modern approaches emphasize personalized strategies that better suit individual player development needs. This study examined the effects of Small-Sided Games (SSGs) alone and in combination with Differential Learning (SSG + DL) on physiological responses, tactical behaviors, and technical skills enhancement of soccer players. Twenty male soccer players participated in this randomized controlled trial, assigned to either a control group (SSG, n = 10, age: 19.4 ± 1.07 years) or an intervention group (SSG + DL, n = 10, age: 18.2 ± 0.91 years). Physiological responses (heart rate, blood lactate, RPE), tactical behaviors, and technical skills were assessed before and after an 8-week training program (four sessions weekly). Large main effects of Time were found for technical/tactical skills including possession (η2 = 0.83), passes (η2 = 0.86), shots (η2 = 0.77), tackles (η2 = 0.73), and decisionmaking (η2 = 0.92). Medium effects emerged for heart rate (η2 = 0.19) and effort (η2 = 0.27). Group effects were negligible for physical measures. Significant interaction effects favoring the intervention were found for possession (η2 = 0.42), passes (η2 = 0.42), tackling (η2 = 0.74), and marking (η2 = 0.58). The intervention group showed larger improvement effect sizes (g = 0.11-2.61) compared to controls (g = 0.05-1.97). Integration of SSGs with DL significantly enhances tactical behaviors and technical skills in amateur soccer players compared to SSGs alone. These findings provide coaches with a practical framework to develop more adaptable players, particularly valuable for youth teams with limited resources, highlighting the importance of incorporating innovative training methods that emphasize variability and exploration.
15 Interaction effects between possession status and percentage: insights from modeling match-running performance across possession status in male soccer
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Jul 16:43:35-44. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2025.151653. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Pengyu Pan, Carlos Lago-Peñas, Miguel Lorenzo-Martinez, Robert Rein, Tianbiao Liu, Daniel Memmert, Ricardo Resta Serra, Roberto López Del Campo
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884881/pdf/JBS-43-56160.pdf
Summary: Due to the dynamic and complex nature of soccer, match-running performance (MRP) is highly influenced by match content. This study aimed to examine the interaction between possession status (PS) and possession percentage (PP) in relation to match-running performance (MRP) and to quantify MRP in each PS while considering multiple contextual variables. MRP indicators, including total distance (TD) and high-intensity running distance (HID), were collected from 8,468 observations of 412 outfield male players in the 2018-2019 Spanish LaLiga, excluding matches with red cards. This study set PS, possession percentage (PP), effective playing time, match location, quality of opposition, and match results as fixed effects, and set players and teams as random effects. Results indicated: i) PP interacted with PS, negatively affecting TD (r = -0.26, p < 0.05) and HID (r = -0.11, p < 0.05) during IP but positively influencing TD (r = 0.24, p < 0.05) and HID (r = 0.28, p < 0.05) during OP; ii) MRP during in-possession exceeded out-of-possession when PP was below 36% for TD and 36.4% for HID; iii) PP thresholds for MRP shifts varied by position, with forwards requiring higher PP (TD: 61.8%, HID: 68.6%) compared to central defenders (TD: 28.3%, HID: 9.2%). This study reveals the interaction effects of PS and PP on MRP, emphasizing the complexity of multivariate relationships in soccer. It underscores the importance of multivariate approaches over traditional methods like t-tests, which provide only partial insights.
16 Interchangeability of external player load variables from different athlete tracking systems in English Premier League soccer players
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Aug 5:43:45-52. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2026.153304. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Ronan Kavanagh, Kevin McDaid, Jack McDonnell, David Rhodes, David Tivey, Jill Alexander, Damian Harper, Piotr Zmijewski, Ryland Morgans
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884882/pdf/JBS-43-56509.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to assess the interchangeability between tracking variables derived from Global Positioning System (GPS) and those of an Optical Tracking System (OTS) in elite soccer players. Twenty-six male professional outfield soccer players (age 27 ± 4 years, height 182 ± 6.67 cm, mass 80.73 ± 7.74 kg) from an English Premier League (EPL) team formed the sample. Positional information was recorded using a GPS (10 Hz Apex, STATSports, Belfast, UK) and concomitantly by an OTS using six semi-automated HD cameras sampling at a frequency of 25 Hz (Second Spectrum, Los Angeles, USA). While differences exist for both total distance and high-speed running (HSR) between the GPS and OTS, the GPS was highly correlated with the OTS (r2 > 0.99). The OTS displayed the highest values across all three examined variables. Total distance was 4% higher on average when utilising the OTS, while HSR and sprint distance were 12% and 18% higher respectively. Given its importance and the differences observed, regression equations should be utilised to align GPS and OTS data to allow practitioners to evaluate running performance and optimally prepare players for the demands of the game more effectively.
17 The loading impact of training and match-play on non-contact muscle injuries in elite male soccer players. A seasonal analysis
Reference: Biol Sport. 2025 Aug 6:43:107-114. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2026.153305. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Ryland Morgans, Rafael Oliveira, Mauro Mandorino, Piotr Zmijewski, Ben Ryan, Toni Modric, Jose Teixeira, Alexandre Moreira
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12884896/pdf/JBS-43-56510.pdf
Summary: This study investigated the relationship between acute and chronic training load metrics and non-contact muscle injuries in elite soccer players employing a novel statistical approach. A retrospective analysis was conducted during the 2020/21 season on 30 senior outfield players from an English Premier League club. Global Positioning System (GPS) technology monitored total distance, high-speed running (HSR) distance (5.5-7 m/s), sprint distance (> 7 m/s), and peak speed during training sessions and matches. A total of 42 injuries were documented, with an incidence of 8.94 injuries per 1000 hours, although only 12 non-contact muscle injuries were included in the analysis that occurred at 2.5 per 1000 hours of exposure. Acute (7-day) and chronic (28-day) training loads were examined, and data preprocessing addressed missing values and multicollinearity. To address class imbalance, the dataset was balanced using the Synthetic Minority Over-Sampling Technique (SMOTE) prior to logistic regression. Four significant predictors were retained: acute HSR (β = -0.175, p < 0.001), acute sprint distance (β = -0.613, p < 0.001), acute peak speed (β = 1.101, p < 0.001), and chronic total distance (β = 2.234, p < 0.001). The model demonstrated excellent discriminative ability with an AUC-ROC of 0.80. The results showed that higher acute volumes of HSR and sprint distance serve as protective factors against non-contact muscle injuries, whereas an increase in acute peak speed and chronic total distance significantly elevates injury risk. These findings underscore the importance of regular exposure to HSR to enhance injury resilience, while excessive load and peak speed may contribute to neuromuscular fatigue and overload.
18 Association Between Habitual Food Intake and Energy Metabolism-Related Urine Metabolites in Female Soccer Players
Reference: Mol Nutr Food Res. 2026 Feb;70(3):e70389. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.70389.
Authors: Maria B A Nascimento, Maria M S Gouveia, Maryssa P P Dos Santos, Alessandre C Crispim, Edmilson R Da Rocha-Júnior, Edson S Bento, Thiago M Aquino, Nassib B Bueno, Filipe A B Sousa et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12891932/pdf/MNFR-70-e70389.pdf
Summary: The aim was to assess the association between habitual nutrients intake and the energetic metabolism-related metabolites found by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) in female soccer players‘ urine. Thirteen female soccer players were measured for habitual food intake 11 days before the competitive season, and had urine samples collected pre- and post-match during five matches of two simultaneous championships to be examined by NMR. Nutrients and metabolites were associated through univariate and multivariate analyses. B3, B6, Prot.kg and energy (Kcal.kg) with leucine; B1, B3, B6, energy (Kcal.kg) and Prot.kg with AHI, glucose, tyrosine; formate and 1-Methylnicotinamide. In parallel, inverse correlations were observed between B3, B6, and Prot.kg with creatinine, B12 and 1-Methylnicotinamide (r ≥ 0.4; p < 0.05). In conclusion, it is possible to speculate that the herein described associations between metabolites and nutrients involved in energy metabolism seem to result from their participation in oxidative pathways, mainly in the TCA cycle and in gluconeogenesis.
19 External Load of Professional Female Soccer Players in the Competitive Microcycle: Influence of Playing Position and Contextual Variables
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 Feb 11. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005387. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Omar Sánchez-Abselam, Francisco Tomás González-Fernández, Alfonso Castillo-Rodríguez, Wanesa Onetti-Onetti
Summary: Women’s soccer has experienced substantial growth in recent years, accompanied by increased scientific interest in performance-related variables. This study aimed to analyze the external load across competitive microcycles in a professional women’s soccer team and to examine the influence of playing position and contextual factors (match location, outcome, and opponent quality) on physical demands. Eighteen professional players (age: 24.5 ± 5.6 years; body mass: 58.8 ± 14.8 kg; height: 165 ± 5.7 cm) from a Spanish second-division team were monitored across 13 microcycles using 10 Hz Global Positioning System devices. Players were categorized into 5 positions: central defenders, external defenders, midfielders, wingers, and forwards. Significant differences were observed across microcycle days ( p < 0.001), with match day (MD) presenting the highest external load values, and MD-1 the lowest. Playing position significantly affected explosive distance, high-speed running, and high metabolic load distance ( p < 0.001), with forwards showing the highest values and central defenders the lowest. In addition, greater physical demands were recorded when competing against lower-ranked opponents. These findings provide relevant insights for physical performance staff, highlighting the importance of adjusting training loads based on both positional profiles and contextual factors to optimize performance and recovery strategies in elite women’s soccer.
20 Change of direction and Repeated Sprint Ability with and without ball performance in young soccer players: a comparison across different age-categories
Reference: PeerJ. 2026 Feb 2:14:e20691. doi: 10.7717/peerj.20691. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Mehdi Ben Brahim, Farjana Akter Boby, Ariadna Hernaiz-Sánchez, Hussain Yasin, Alejandro Sal-de-Rellán
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12875218/pdf/peerj-14-20691.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to investigate age-related differences in anthropometric characteristics, change of direction (COD) and repeated sprint ability (RSA) performance, with and without ball control, in elite soccer players from U17, U19, and U23 categories. Seventy-two male players (age: 18.9 ± 2.23 years; height: 1.72 ± 0.08 m; body mass: 71.7 ± 5.04 kg; body mass index (BMI): 24.3 ± 2.61 kg/m2) from three professional soccer clubs were assessed (U17 = 24; U19 = 24; U23 = 24). After a two-month period of regular training and competition, anthropometric measures (height, body mass, body mass index) were recorded. In addition, players completed the New Multi-Change of Direction Agility Test (NMAT) and the Bangsbo RSA test, both performed with and without a ball. Testing was standardized for familiarization, warm-up, and environmental conditions. U23 players were taller and heavier than U17 and U19 players, and they showed superior COD performance without the ball compared to U17, whereas no statistically significant differences were found in COD with ball or RSA performance across age groups. Correlation analyses revealed moderate associations between anthropometric variables and COD performance (r = – 0.35 to -0.24), while higher BMI values were related to slower agility times (r = 0.24-0.26). Age-related anthropometric characteristics were associated with better COD performance without the ball, whereas COD with ball and RSA performance appear less age-dependent and more influenced by training specificity. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating technical COD drills and RSA training early in player development to align physical and technical progression.
21 Hamstring Tendon vs. Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone Grafts for Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Football (Soccer) Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Reference: Cureus. 2026 Jan 6;18(1):e100912. doi: 10.7759/cureus.100912. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Kyle Muscat, Jordan Calleja
Summary: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a common and career-impacting injury among football players, often requiring surgical reconstruction. The two most commonly used grafts, hamstring tendon (HT) and bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB), have both shown favorable outcomes, but the optimal choice remains debated. This systematic review aimed to evaluate and compare outcomes of ACL reconstruction using HT vs. BPTB autografts specifically in football players. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE databases from inception to January 2025. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials and observational cohort or case-control studies comparing HT and BPTB autografts in football players undergoing primary ACL reconstruction. The primary outcome was graft failure rate. Secondary outcomes included return to sport, isokinetic muscle strength, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), donor-site morbidity, and knee stability. Meta-analyses were performed for outcomes reported in ≥2 studies with statistical heterogeneity (I²) ≤ 60%. Outcomes with high heterogeneity or limited reporting were summarized narratively using the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) guidelines. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 (RoB2) and Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions Version 2 (ROBINS-I V2) tools. Nine studies with 1,173 participants met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis of five studies (n = 1,013) showed no statistically significant difference in graft failure rates between the graft types (HT: 7.88%, BPTB: 6.34%, OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 0.80-2.67, p = 0.22). Return-to-sport rates were also comparable between graft types. Evidence for secondary outcomes was limited. Meta-analysis of extensor strength, based on two studies and heavily weighted toward a single trial, suggested greater strength following HT reconstruction, while flexor strength and donor-site morbidity findings were derived from single studies. PROMs and knee stability outcomes showed no consistent differences. Risk of bias was moderate to serious in most observational studies. This systematic review and meta-analysis found no clear superiority between HT and BPTB grafts in terms of failure rates, return to sport, or stability outcomes in football players. In contrast, evidence regarding muscle strength recovery and donor-site morbidity remains limited and preliminary. These secondary findings should be interpreted cautiously, highlighting the need for further high-quality, football-specific trials.
22 Intermittent pneumatic compression does not improve post-match neuromuscular, biochemical or perceptual recovery in international-level youth soccer players: a randomized placebo-controlled trial
Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2026 Feb 9. doi: 10.1186/s13102-026-01580-5. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Filipe Maia, Sandro Tito, Marco Correia, Fábio Y Nakamura, João Ribeiro
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s13102-026-01580-5_reference.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a single session of high-pressure intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) on post-match recovery in international level youth soccer players, using neuromuscular, biochemical, and perceptual markers. Forty-two observations (across 6 matches) of 23 elite U19 soccer players (age: 17.45 ± 0.72 years; height: 1.82 ± 0.06 m; body mass: 74.95 ± 6.45 kg) participated in this randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Following competitive matches, participants were assigned to receive either 30 min of high-pressure IPC (200 mmHg) or a placebo intervention (hydrant cream). Recovery status was assessed pre-match, and at 30 min, 24- and 48-hours post-match using countermovement jump height, low-frequency fatigue of the knee extensors (Myocene®), creatine kinase (CK) concentrations, and self-reported fatigue and soreness. Linear mixed models were used to examine the effects of time, group, and time x group interaction. Covariates such as perceived exertion, GPS metrics, and sleep metrics were included when appropriate. No significant time x group interactions were found for any of the variables under analysis (p = 0.089 to 0.834). Significant main effects of time were detected in CK, perceived fatigue and soreness (p < 0.001), confirming match-induced fatigue, but without group differences. Exploratory analyses revealed that internal and external load, as well as total sleep time influenced recovery markers, particularly CK and perceptual responses. A single session of high-pressure IPC does not seem to enhance post-match recovery in elite youth soccer players compared to a placebo, on neuromuscular, biochemical, and subjective markers.