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 The Latent Dimensionality of Physical and Technical Performance Across Three Youth Soccer Tiers
Reference: J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2026 Apr 28;11(2):177. doi: 10.3390/jfmk11020177.
Authors: Adem Preljević, Saša Bubanj, Dušan Stanković et al.
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2411-5142/11/2/177
Summary: This study aimed to examine the structure of anthropometric characteristics, motor skills and specific motor skills in young football players. Study participants (427 male football players) were divided into pre-pioneers (11-13 y), n = 133; pioneers (13-15 y), n = 160; and cadets (15-17 y), n = 134. The entire sample of subjects was evaluated using 13 anthropometric and seven motor variables. The factor structure for each chronological age group was determined using Hotelling’s method. Anthropometric characteristics showed three extracted factors in the pre-pioneers group, four factors in the pioneer group and two factors in the cadet group. Motor skills displayed three factors for the youngest group, two factors for the pioneers and three factors for the cadet group. Four factors were determined for specific motor skills in pre-pioneers, four in pioneers and three in cadet age. This study revealed structural variability and non-uniformity in the latent dimensions across age groups, with the total number of factors fluctuating between two and four. This study revealed two consistent latent dimensions in anthropometric data across all age groups: general morphological parameters and subcutaneous fat tissue. In motor skills, an initial universal factor is separated into central and energetic regulation of movements. Finally, specific motor skills demonstrated a transition from a highly differentiated four-factor structure in younger players toward a more integrated functional system in the oldest cohort, comprising intermuscular coordination, running speed with and without a ball; segmental speed of the lower extremities with a ball; and explosive force in hitting a ball with the foot and head.
2 ACL Reconstruction for Combined ACL/MCL Injuries in Professional Soccer and Rugby Players: No Difference in Career Longevity Compared to Uninjured Matched Controls
Reference: Am J Sports Med. 2026 May 27:3635465261448234. doi: 10.1177/03635465261448234. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Mary Jones, Arman Motesharei, Wahid Abdul, David Haslhofer, Simon Ball, Andy Williams
Summary: Combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries are common in professional sport, but there is little evidence available regarding the long-term impact of them on players‘ sporting careers.The aim was to determine the effect on return to play (RTP), career longevity, and match participation of male professional soccer and rugby players after primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR) and associated MCL injury, treated with operative or nonoperative management, by comparing each group with uninjured matched controls. Male professional soccer and rugby players who underwent ACLR with an MCL injury, which was treated either operatively or nonoperatively, between 2015 and 2022 were each compared with 5 uninjured control players matched by age, sport, playing position, league, match appearances, and minutes played in the 12 months before injury. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression models were created. Overall, 90.4% (soccer, 92.6%; rugby, 87.5%) of players with ACLR+MCL injuries returned to play at 11.6 ± 4.1 months, which was similar to the 91.5% rate (soccer, 92.8%; rugby, 89.5%) of uninjured control players still competing at 11 months after the operation date of their matched player with injury. At 2 years postsurgery 81.9% of all injured athletes were still competing compared to 81.3% in the control group. This decreased to 61.7% and 62.8%, respectively, at 5 years postsurgery. There was no difference between the still playing rates of the ACLR+MCL operative group 2 and 5 years postsurgery compared to their uninjured controls (2 years: 75.0% vs 75.9%; 5 years: 37.5% vs 41.5%) or between the ACLR+MCL nonoperative group and their uninjured controls (2 years: 86.2% vs 84.6%; 5 years: 70.5% vs 70.8%). Age, sport, and competition level all had a significant effect on retirement risk, but being injured did not. After controlling for age, sport, and level played, the median career length was 7.07 years in the uninjured group compared to 6.68 years in the ACLR+MCL injury group. After ACLR with either operative or nonoperative management of an associated MCL injury, professional soccer and rugby players have high rates of RTP and maintain career longevity equal to that of a player without injury if the severity of the MCL injury is recognized and treated appropriately.
3 Psychological benefits of bilateral and unilateral plyometric training configurations in post-pubertal highly trained male soccer players
Reference: Front Psychol. 2026 May 11:17:1844921. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1844921. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Achraf Hammami, Raouf Hammami, Abdelkader Mahmoudi, Haithem Rebai, Roland van den Tillaar
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13200614/pdf/fpsyg-17-1844921.pdf
Summary: This study examined the effects of different plyometric training configurations on mental well-being in post-pubertal highly trained male soccer players. Participants were assigned to bilateral (4 × 8; n = 10), high-volume unilateral (4 × 8; n = 10), or low-volume unilateral (4 × 4; n = 11) training groups. Pre-post assessments included cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety, self-confidence, attention, and emotional competence. Baseline scores were similar across groups for most variables (p > 0.05), except total emotional competence, which was higher in the unilateral 4 × 4 group (F = 13.4, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.48). Significant main effects of time were observed for all variables (F ≥ 18.7, p ≤ 0.001, η2 ≥ 0.37). Cognitive anxiety decreased significantly in all groups (p < 0.05), while somatic anxiety decreased significantly only in the bilateral group (p < 0.05). Self-confidence increased significantly in the bilateral and unilateral 4 × 4 groups (p < 0.05). Attention showed a significant time × group interaction (F = 3.54, p = 0.042, η2 = 0.20), with the unilateral 4 × 4 group improving more than the unilateral 4 × 8 group. Emotional competence increased in all groups; however, the unilateral 4 × 4 group remained higher at both pre- and post-test, resulting in a significant group effect (F = 16.4, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.53). No significant differences were found between high- and low-volume unilateral training for the other outcomes. These results indicate that plyometric training enhances mental well-being in youth highly trained male soccer players, but neither increased volume nor unilateral specificity provides additional benefits. Bilateral training may be most effective for reducing cognitive anxiety, while low-volume unilateral training offers a time-efficient alternative.
4 Effect of Polyphenol Supplementation on Post-Exercise Recovery in Adult Male Soccer Players: A Systematic Review
Reference: Nutrients. 2026 May 21;18(10):1638. doi: 10.3390/nu18101638.
Authors: Verónica Silva Díaz, Antonio Castillo-Paredes, Alexander Javier Iman Torres et al.
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/18/10/1638
Summary: Soccer involves high physiological demands that induce neuromuscular fatigue, muscle damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress, impairing recovery between training sessions and competitions. Polyphenols have been proposed as a nutritional strategy to modulate these responses; however, evidence in soccer players is limited and heterogeneous. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the evidence on the effects of polyphenol supplementation on post-exercise recovery in adult male soccer players. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, with a protocol registered in the Open Science Framework. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating polyphenol supplementation versus placebo on post-exercise recovery in adult soccer players were included. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library up to April 2026. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2, and certainty of evidence using GRADE. Due to heterogeneity, a qualitative synthesis was conducted. Eight RCTs were included. Interventions involved tart cherry juice, pomegranate juice, beetroot juice, curcumin, and tea extracts. Evidence was inconsistent for biomarkers of muscle damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress, with most studies reporting no significant differences versus placebo. In contrast, beneficial trends for perceptual outcomes, particularly reduced muscle soreness and improved subjective well-being, were mainly observed in studies using tart cherry juice, beetroot juice, and curcumin. Evidence for oxidative stress and functional recovery was limited and heterogeneous. Certainty of evidence was low for most outcomes and very low for oxidative stress and functional recovery. Polyphenol supplementation, particularly tart cherry juice, beetroot juice, and curcumin, may improve perceptual recovery in adult male soccer players, particularly by reducing muscle soreness and enhancing subjective well-being. However, evidence on physiological biomarkers and functional recovery remains inconsistent and of low certainty. Further well-designed RCTs are required to establish robust recommendations in competitive soccer.
5 Squat Jump and Bilateral and Unilateral Countermovement Jump Performance in Soccer Players 6 and 9 Months After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Reference: Medicina (Kaunas). 2026 Apr 23;62(5):807. doi: 10.3390/medicina62050807.
Authors: Nikola Andrić, Mladen Mikić, Damjan Jakšić, Slavko Molnar, Dejan Javorac, Vukadin Milankov
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/62/5/807
Summary: The assessment of neuromuscular recovery after ACL reconstruction is crucial for safe return to sport (RTS) in professional soccer players. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to compare squat jump (SJ), bilateral countermovement jump (CMJ), and single-leg CMJ performance in three distinct groups: players at 6 months post-ACL reconstruction, players at 9 months post-ACL reconstruction, and healthy controls. Seventy-two male players (24 at 6 months post-ACL, 24 at 9 months post-ACL, 24 healthy controls) performed squat jump, bilateral countermovement jump, and single-leg CMJ tests using contact platforms following a controlled warm-up protocol. Significant group differences were observed in all jump tests. At 6 months post-ACL reconstruction, players demonstrated significantly lower squat jump (45.13 ± 6.20 cm) and bilateral countermovement jump (49.67 ± 6.80 cm) heights compared to both 9-month players (SJ: 50.03 ± 5.30 cm; CMJ: 53.79 ± 4.85 cm) and controls (SJ: 51.12 ± 4.97 cm; CMJ: 55.49 ± 5.54 cm) (p ≤ 0.016, η2 = 0.187 and η2 = 0.156, respectively). No significant differences between 9-month and control groups were observed for the squat jump and the bilateral countermovement jump. Regarding the unilateral countermovement jump, the injured leg showed significant performance deficits compared to controls in both the 6-month and 9-month groups (p = 0.001, η2 = 0.378). However, the non-injured leg exhibited deficits only in the 6-month group. Compared to the 6-month post-ACL reconstruction group, the 9-month group showed a marked improvement in bilateral jump performance, indicating substantial neuromuscular recovery over time. However, persistent unilateral deficits in the injured leg remained even at 9 months, underscoring the need for a routine and comprehensive jumping evaluation to identify residual neuromuscular impairments that may require targeted rehabilitation before returning to sport.
6 Predicting differential ratings of perceived exertion (dRPE) in youth soccer using decision tree models
Reference: Sci Rep. 2026 May 26. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-53646-6. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Robert Śliwowski, Tomasz Górecki, Michał Włodarczyk, Thierry Paillard, Teresa Zwierko, Jakub Marynowicz
Download link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-53646-6_reference.pdf
Summary: This study investigated the relationship between external training load metrics obtained from GPS technology and differentiated ratings of perceived exertion (dRPE) in elite youth soccer players, and evaluated the predictive value of decision tree models for estimating exertion across multiple domains. Data were collected over a 17-week in-season period, yielding 537 training observations from 15 players. External load variables included total distance, moderate- and high-speed running, accelerations, decelerations, distances covered during acceleration and deceleration, and impacts, all normalized per minute of training. Internal load was assessed using a modified Borg CR-10 scale with separate ratings for overall exertion, lower-limb effort, breathlessness, and technical-cognitive demand. Decision tree models were developed for each dRPE dimension. Total distance emerged as the strongest predictor of overall exertion, muscular effort, and technical-cognitive strain, while breathlessness was primarily explained by moderate-speed running (14.4-19.8 km·h⁻¹). The models showed satisfactory session-level predictive accuracy within the monitored squad under repeated-session monitoring, with root mean square error values between 0.96 and 1.19 across domains. These results confirm the multidimensional nature of exertion in soccer and indicate the value of combining perceptual measures with interpretable machine learning models to improve individualized monitoring and understanding of training responses in elite youth players.
7 How Different Are Training Sessions From Matches? An Exploratory Study Analyzing Resultant Acceleration Distribution Curves of Portuguese Young Adult Male Soccer Players
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 May 27. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005465. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Pedro Oliveira, Ivan Baptista, Felipe A Moura, Daniel Boullosa, Ricardo Pimenta, Fábio Y Nakamura, José Afonso
Summary: This exploratory study examined the continuous distribution of acceleration (Acc) loads across a weekly microcycle in elite male youth soccer players, comparing training sessions with competitive match demands. Raw Acc data were processed to generate continuous distribution curves representing the frequency and magnitude of Acc across all sessions. Statistical Parametric Mapping was used to compare these distributions between match day (MD) and training days separately (MD-1 to MD-4). The results indicated that MD-3 and MD-4 showed the greatest similarity to match play, differing by only 0 and 134 points, respectively, on a 1,000-point scale, while MD-1 displayed the greatest divergence, consistent with its intended tapering function. The observed data suggest that MD-3 and MD-4 were the most physically demanding training sessions, closely replicating match demands, while the remaining days imposed lower Acc loads than match play. The continuous Acc approach provided detailed and context-specific evidence into how training sessions replicate or differ from competitive demands, overcoming the limitations of traditional threshold-based methods relying on arbitrary cutoffs. From a practical perspective, using continuous Acc values for intraindividual rather than interindividual comparisons may help strength and conditioning professionals to improve the precision of workload monitoring and support more individualized training adjustments based on intraindividual variability.
8 Effects of Contrast Training Using Holding Isometric and Ballistic Exercises on Physical Performance of Youth Male Soccer Players: A Randomized Controlled Study
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 May 27. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005510. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Sonam K Ramchiary, Sambhu Prasad, Heta Meto, Guniya Dele
Summary: This study aimed to compare the effects of a 12-week complex-contrast training (CT) intervention, combining both holding isometric and ballistic exercises, on the physical performance of male youth soccer players. Thirty (age: 17.7 ± 0.6 years) Tier 2 (developmental or trained) male soccer players were randomly assigned to the CT (n = 15) or control group (n = 15). Sprint force-velocity profile, 10- and 30-m sprint times, countermovement jump, change-of-direction speed, isometric mid-thigh pull, Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1, kicking distance, and kicking velocity were collected at baseline and post-12-week intervention. A 2-by-2 mixed analysis of variance and analysis of covariance with the baseline scores as covariate and Bonferroni-corrected post hoc analysis revealed significant improvements in 10- and 30-m times, sprint Pmax (i.e., relative peak power), sprint ratio of forces for the first 10 m (i.e., average ratio of force for the first 10 m), change-of-direction speed, countermovement jump, isometric mid-thigh pull, kicking distance, and kicking velocity for the CT group compared with the control group (p < 0.001-0.028, ηp2 = 0.18-0.56). The Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 1 similarly improved in both groups. In contrast, no improvements were observed for maximal sprint velocity and slope of the linear decrease in the ratio of force as sprint velocity increases (i.e., the slope of linear decrease in ratio of force as sprint velocity increased). In conclusion, CT using holding isometric and ballistic exercises has the potential to induce neuromuscular adaptations and improve the physical performance of male youth soccer players. This CT method could be particularly relevant for soccer players without gym access and/or for nonresistance-trained players who may be reluctant to lift heavy weights.
9 Characterization of Sports Science Professionals Working in the Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Australian A-League, and Major League Soccer
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 May 26. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005466. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Abbey Jones, Disa Hatfield, Luis Peñailillo, William J Kraemer, Carlos O Rehbein, Jorich Swift, Jacob Earp
Summary: Sport science (SS) is an evolving field dedicated to enhancing athlete performance and health through implementation of evidence-based practices and integration with technical coaching and medical staff. Despite numerous advances in this field, SS integration is not standardized across professional soccer. The present study compares functional roles of SS stakeholders working across five international soccer leagues and how educational background varies by role. Stakeholders (n = 358) from the Premier League (PL), Bundesliga (BL), La Liga (LL), Major Soccer League (MLS), and Australian A-League (AA-L) were identified from club websites and media releases. Stakeholder roles were classified by job title as sports scientist, performance director, data analyst, or performance coach, and comparisons were made between leagues. Level of education and area of study was available for 75% of stakeholders and was compared between positions by role. Overall, PL (5.32 ± 2.98 stakeholders/club) and BL (5.72 ± 2.42 stakeholders/club) employed more (p < 0.05) stakeholders than LL (2.68 ± 1.67 stakeholders/club), MLS (2.61 ± 1.47 stakeholders/club), and AA-L (2.50 ± 1.00 stakeholders/club). The relative number of stakeholders with each role differed between leagues (F = 2.74-13.91, p = 0.001-0.034). Notably, PL employed more sports scientists than BL and LL, whereas BL employed more analysts and performance coaches than LL, MLS, and AA-L (p < 0.05). In addition, sports scientists were more likely to have a sports-science degree (80%) than data analysts (44%) or performance coaches (72%) and on average possessed more advanced degrees (p = 0.001-0.002). Overall integration of SS differed between soccer leagues in the number of stakeholders employed, their primary job responsibilities, and educational background.
10 Why Hand-Wrist Bandaging Could Improve Performance in Elite Soccer Players? A Scoping Review on the Biomechanical Rationale of Upper Limb Role in Kicking
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 May 6;14(5):189. doi: 10.3390/sports14050189.
Authors: Rocco De Vitis, Luca Lombardi, Matteo Guzzini, Arturo Militerno, Giuseppe Taccardo, Marco Passiatore
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/5/189
Summary: Soccer kicking biomechanics has traditionally focused on lower limbs, overlooking whole-body integration. Three-dimensional motion analyses have demonstrated that upper limbs contribute substantially through tension arc formation, counterbalancing, and kinetic chain coordination. The hand-wrist complex may influence performance through proprioceptive pathways, yet this remains untested. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus (inception-February 2026). Peer-reviewed studies examining kicking mechanics, kinetic chains, and joint proprioception were included. Two reviewers independently screened records and extracted data. Narrative synthesis was used to organize findings across four thematic categories: upper limb biomechanics, kinetic chain principles, wrist-hand stability, and proprioceptive enhancement. From 3847 records, 51 studies (1988-2025) were included. Upper limbs are essential for kicking through tension arc formation, energy transfer, and balance maintenance. Kinetic chains operate bidirectionally; available evidence suggests that proximal segment deficits are associated with substantially increased compensatory demands at distal segments. External joint support has been shown to enhance proprioception and force perception. This scoping review identifies a theoretical rationale and a critical research gap: no direct empirical evidence exists that hand-wrist bandaging affects kicking performance. Evidence from adjacent domains (upper limb kicking biomechanics, kinetic chain theory and proprioceptive enhancement with external supports) provides indirect, translational support for the plausibility of a hypothesis that remains entirely untested. Future research should employ within-subject crossover designs in elite soccer players to determine whether this intervention produces any measurable effect. Practical recommendations to athletes or practitioners are premature and are not supported by the current evidence base.
11 A 14-Day Sleep Hygiene Intervention Improves Aerobic Performance and Reduces Anticipatory Cortisol in University Soccer Players
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Apr 29;14(5):179. doi: 10.3390/sports14050179.
Authors: Adele Broodryk, Retief Broodryk
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13210537/pdf/sports-14-00179.pdf
Summary: Sleep is a critical recovery mechanism for athletes, supporting hormonal regulation, muscle repair, and cognitive function. Dual-career athletes are particularly vulnerable to sleep disruption, which may impair performance and stress regulation. This study examined the effects of a 14-day sleep hygiene intervention protocol (SHIP) on aerobic and anaerobic performance, as well as anticipatory cortisol responses, in university-level soccer players. Thirty athletes (females: n = 14, 22.1 ± 3.3 y, 157.8 ± 6.0 cm, 53.5 ± 3.9 kg, males: n = 16, 21.5 ± 1.7 y, 167.5 ± 5.9 cm, 62.7 ± 5.4 kg) completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), provided pre-test salivary cortisol samples, and performed the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIR1) and Repeated Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST) before and after the intervention (adhering daily to 10-18 individualized sleep hygiene). The SHIP significantly reduced sleep latency (p = 0.04) and increased sleep duration (p = 0.03), and PSQI scores (p < 0.001) in both sexes. Females showed marked increases in sleep duration (p = 0.002), while males showed improved latency (p = 0.07). Five behaviourally coherent clusters derived from the SHIP adherence explained a substantial proportion of variance (74.99%). Stimulant and metabolic regulation, and bedroom light and thermal environment control consistently predicted sprint and physiological outcomes (p < 0.05). Anticipatory cortisol decreased before both tests (p = 0.03-0.04). YYIR1 performance improved for the full cohort (p = 0.001). RAST times slowed slightly (p = 0.02), though fatigue index improved (p = 0.05). A short-term SHIP effectively enhanced sleep, reduced physiological stress, and improved key performance outcomes in collegiate athletes.
12 Brain MRI findings associated with soccer heading: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Reference: Neuroradiology. 2026 May 26. doi: 10.1007/s00234-026-04040-6. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Tomasz Tykocki
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s00234-026-04040-6.pdf
Summary: Repetitive head impacts from soccer heading may cause subclinical brain alterations, but the magnitude and consistency of neuroimaging abnormalities remain uncertain. A systematic review and meta-analysis of brain MRI studies in soccer players was performed. Diffusion MRI was the primary outcome; magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and structural MRI morphometry were secondary outcomes. Thirteen independent studies were included. Five diffusion MRI studies (n≈300 players) were synthesised using Fisher’s z. Soccer heading exposure was associated with significant white-matter microstructural alteration (pooled Fisher’s z – 0.73, 95% CI – 1.02 to – 0.44), corresponding to an equivalent correlation of r≈ – 0.62 and a standard mean difference of approximately – 1.5. Between-study heterogeneity was moderate (I2≈68%). Individual studies reported increased radial or axial diffusivity (Hedges g up to + 3.00) or reduced fractional anisotropy (z range – 0.27 to – 1.40). Four morphometry studies showed small, non-significant differences in cortical thickness or volume (pooled Hedges g – 0.10, 95% CI – 0.22 to 0.10). Four MRS studies demonstrated predominantly increased choline- and myo-inositol-related metabolites (Hedges g ≈0·3-0·8), with minimal or inconsistent N-acetylaspartate change. Soccer heading is associated with moderate-to-large effect sizes in diffusion MRI metrics of white-matter microstructure, whereas metabolic and structural MRI findings are smaller, less consistent, and of uncertain clinical significance. This meta-analysis provides the first quantitative evidence that soccer heading is associated with a robust, moderate-to-large diffusion MRI signal of white-matter microstructural alteration. It further shows that diffusion MRI is more sensitive than spectroscopy or structural morphometry for detecting subclinical brain effects of repetitive head impacts.
13 NMR-based metabolomics profile during a soccer season of a sub-elite soccer team
Reference: Metabolomics. 2026 May 24;22(3):86. doi: 10.1007/s11306-026-02452-2.
Authors: Alisson Henrique Marinho, Filipe Antonio de Barros Sousa, Pedro Balikian Junior, Edson de Souza Bento, Thiago de Mendonça Aquino, Victor Amorim Farias Andrade-Souza, Edmilson Rodrigues da Rocha-Junior, Alessandre Crispim, Gustavo Gomes de Araujo
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13199214/pdf/11306_2026_Article_2452.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to characterize metabolomic profiling, match performance, and GPS-derived variables across the competitive season of a sub-elite soccer team. Performance variables were recorded by GPS during matches. Urine samples were collected pre-match across 20 games. For integrative analysis, only players participating ≥ 25 min per match were included (n = 13 matches). Spectra were pre-processed using TopSpin®3.2, and metabolites were identified using Chenomx®. Heatmap analysis revealed two main metabolite clusters (C): C1 (choline to citrate – C1) and C2 (dimethylamine to trans-aconitate – C2). C1 showed lower concentrations at the beginning of the season with a progressive increase toward the end, whereas C2 displayed the opposite trend. A sub-cluster within C2 (trimethylamine to trans-aconitate) exhibited a three-phase pattern, decreasing mid-season and increasing thereafter. PCA and OPLS-DA demonstrated clear separation between early- and late-season matches, indicating a shift in the metabolomic profile. Distance covered across speed zones was higher in C1 and lower in C2. Leucine, guanidinoacetate, creatinine, and 3-hydroxyisovalerate were inversely associated with distance metrics, linking elevated protein catabolism markers to reduced performance. Glycerophosphocholine was also inversely correlated with most distance variables of GPS metrics, suggesting reduced muscle integrity. In contrast, glucose was positively associated with player load, accelerations, decelerations, and impacts, while citrate correlated with high-speed running and maximum velocity. Seasonal metabolomic shifts are associated with external load and performance. Markers of protein catabolism relate to reduced output, whereas energy-related metabolites support high-intensity actions, highlighting metabolomics as a complementary tool for monitoring recovery and performance in soccer.
14 Match success in football: insights from raw and possession-normalized key performance indicators in the Turkish professional league
Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2026 May 29. doi: 10.1186/s13102-026-01768-9. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Ozan Sever, Çağdaş Öncü, Yunus Öztaşyonar, Ömer Aksoy, Serdar Bayrakdaroğlu
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s13102-026-01768-9_reference.pdf
Summary: Match-performance indicators are widely used to explain success in football; however, traditional analyses based solely on absolute key performance indicators (KPIs) may overlook contextual factors such as ball possession and phase of play. This study aimed to examine match-performance indicators associated with winning in Turkish professional football using two complementary approaches: a raw KPI model based on absolute match actions and a possession- and phase-of-play-normalized KPI model accounting for contextual opportunity. Match data were obtained from a validated event-based database covering six consecutive seasons, yielding 2,728 team observations from 1,364 win-loss matches. Descriptive comparisons between winning and losing teams were conducted, followed by multivariate binary logistic regression analyses to identify performance indicators independently associated with match success under both modeling approaches. At the descriptive level, winning teams demonstrated higher values for shots, shots on target, accurate passes, opponent-half accurate passes, accurate crosses (%), and opponent-half accurate passes (%), whereas total possession and total passes did not differ significantly between groups. In terms of disciplinary indicators, losing teams received significantly more yellow and red cards, whereas fouls committed were significantly higher in winning teams (p = 0.014). However, the normalized indicator (fouls committed per out-of-possession) did not differ significantly between groups. In the raw KPI model, positive predictors of match success included shots on target (OR = 1.58), accurate crosses (OR = 1.10), opponent-half accurate passes (OR = 1.01), and fouls committed (OR = 1.04). Negative predictors were total crosses (OR = 0.92), yellow cards (OR = 0.89), and red cards (OR = 0.49). In the possession-normalized model, significant positive predictors were shots on target per possession, accurate crosses per possession, and fouls committed per out-of-possession. Significant negative predictors included crosses per possession, accurate crosses (%), yellow cards per out-of-possession, and red cards per out-of-possession. The findings indicate that combining absolute performance indicators with context-sensitive normalized metrics may provide a more comprehensive perspective on match success in football. Offensive efficiency and disciplinary control emerged as key correlates of winning, particularly when evaluated relative to possession and phase-of-play contexts. These findings suggest the potential value of integrating contextualized performance analysis into match evaluation and performance analysis frameworks.
15 Mental fitness in elite sport: The role of therapy in football academies
Reference: Acta Psychol (Amst). 2026 May 28:267:107119. doi: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2026.107119. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Oliver William Twizell, Terry Hanley
Summary: Despite growing media interest into the effects of organised sport on children and young people’s mental health, there remains a dearth of research in this area. The study therefore aimed to explore sport professionals‘ views of how football academies support the mental health and wellbeing of academy footballers. A qualitative design was utilised to generate a rich dataset to gain insights into the views of sport professionals. Eleven individuals who worked at football academies were interviewed for this study. Reflexive thematic analysis was engaged with in order to identify key themes within the interviews. The analysis led to the creation of three major themes related to the experience of sports professionals in football academes, with each theme consisting of four subthemes. The themes and subthemes were: CONCLUSION: The findings support existing literature and government initiatives with a collective agreement of aiming to improve the facility of mental health support within football academies. Reflecting upon the findings and existing literature, a unique approach to integrate therapy within academy football is proposed. This emphasises a need for therapeutic support across the whole academy system. A collective term was coined within this research as ‚The Three Ps‘ (the players, their support network (parents or primary care givers), and the professionals). This requires applied psychologists to offer support in ways that do not alienate them from the football academy community. Suggestions and implications are discussed, including the provision of flexible holistic support, tailored athlete-centred therapeutic practice, and counselling acting as a platform to connect the whole academy community. Further research is required to assess bi-directional communication between counselling and psychotherapy and football academies to ensure that therapy is adaptable throughout the environment.
16 Neurofeedback in Football: A Systematic Review of Cognitive, Technical, Physical and Psychological Outcomes
Reference: NeuroSci. 2026 Apr 23;7(3):50. doi: 10.3390/neurosci7030050.
Authors: Sílvio A Carvalho, Pedro Bezerra, José E Teixeira, Pedro Forte, Rui M Silva, José M Cancela-Carral
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4087/7/3/50
Summary: This systematic review synthesized the existing evidence on neurofeedback interventions applied to football players, aiming to clarify their effects on cognitive, technical-tactical, physical and psychological performance. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, four databases (PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS and SportsDiscus) were searched up to November 2025. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, involving 133 players across youth, amateur, national and elite levels. Neurofeedback protocols primarily targeted alpha or sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) activity, and some were combined with heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback. Across studies, neurofeedback may be associated with improvements in several cognitive outcomes, including improvements in working memory, visuospatial memory, task switching, mental rotation and decision-making. Limited evidence suggests potential improvements in technical skills (particularly shooting accuracy) and tactical decision-making. Some studies reported changes in physiological markers and stress-recovery capacity, although their interpretation remains uncertain. However, the evidence base remains constrained by small samples, heterogeneous protocols and limited use of randomized controlled designs. Overall, neurofeedback appears to be a potentially promising but still experimental tool to support cognitive and psychophysiological readiness in football, warranting more rigorous and standardized research to establish efficacy and optimal training parameters.
17 Comparative Analysis of Physical Demands and Physiological Responses of Different Warm-Up Protocols in Highly Trained Female Football Players
Reference: Sensors (Basel). 2026 May 19;26(10):3207. doi: 10.3390/s26103207.
Authors: Ibai Errekagorri, Aratz Olaizola, Julen Castellano, Eduardo Abade, Hugo Silva
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/26/10/3207
Summary: This study aimed to describe and compare warm-up (WU) demands of different protocols (with ball, without ball and pre-match) on female football players. Twenty-two players belonging to the same team were monitored throughout 12 training weeks using global navigation satellite system technology sampling at 10 Hz. The variables used were duration, total distance, distances covered within 0-45%, 45-60%, 60-85%, and 85-100% of individual maximum speed, maximum speed, maximum acceleration, maximum deceleration, number of accelerations of magnitudes between 1 and 2 m/s2, 2 and 3 m/s2, 3 and 4 m/s2, and above 4 m/s2, number of decelerations of magnitudes between -1 and -2 m/s2, -2 and -3 m/s2, -3 and -4 m/s2, and below -4 m/s2, Player Load, and TRIMP Edwards. A linear mixed model was carried out for each variable in order to analyze the differences between WU protocols. The main results were that pre-match WU showed higher values in the following variables: (1) duration; (2) distances covered within 60-85% and 85-100% of individual maximum speed; (3) maximum speed, acceleration and deceleration; (4) number of accelerations of magnitudes between 2 and 3 m/s2 and between 3 and 4 m/s2, and more decelerations of magnitudes between -2 and -3 m/s2, -3 and -4 m/s2 and below -4 m/s2; and, (5) TRIMP Edwards. These findings underscore the importance of WU design in preparing female football players for high-intensity match demands and contribute to the development of specific WU strategies for them.
18 Protecting Mental Health and Wellbeing at the Men’s Football World Cup
Reference: Sports Med. 2026 May 26. doi: 10.1007/s40279-026-02458-9. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Adam Gledhill, Vincent Gouttebarge, Kensa K Gunter, Kristoffer Henriksen, Andreas Ivarsson, Emma Kavanagh, Carsten Hvid Larsen, Margo Mountjoy
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s40279-026-02458-9.pdf
Summary: To compete in the men’s FIFA World Cup is for many players a career-defining event but it also presents an intensified performance environment that heightens risk for mental health symptoms among both players and the multidisciplinary staff who support them. Compressed schedules, global scrutiny, disrupted routines, unfamiliar cultural contexts, potential exposure to interpersonal and online violence, and prolonged residential camps can compound stress across teams and staff groups. In light of this, context-specific suggestions for protecting mental health and wellbeing at the men’s World Cup are needed. In this article, we outline key risk factors and protective factors relevant to the men’s FIFA World Cup 2026, presenting evidence-informed recommendations across six domains: (1) creating healthy and supportive environments; (2) tournament mental health infrastructure; (3) player monitoring; (4) interpersonal violence; (5) cultural considerations; and (6) specific considerations regarding team support staff. As a Current Opinion article, this paper synthesises emerging evidence and expert consensus to identify salient risk and protective factors relevant to the men’s FIFA World Cup 2026, and to translate these into context-specific, evidence-informed recommendations aimed at supporting mental health and wellbeing.
19 Comparison of External Load Demands Across Three Competitive Tiers in Spanish Football: A Three-Season Single-Club Study
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 May 27. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005472. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Jordi Vicens-Bordas, Joshua Colomar, Albert Altarriba-Bartés et al.
Summary: The purpose of this study was to compare the match external load demands experienced by a football team competing for 3 consecutive seasons across various competitive tiers (fourth, third, and second) of Spanish football. Independent variables included player position, match location, and match outcome. A total of 747 individual official match observations from 47 male players were recorded using 10-Hz global positioning system devices. External load metrics (relative to minutes played) included total distance, high-speed running (HSR > 21 km·hour-1), sprint distance (>24 km·hour-1), high metabolic load distance (HMLD > 25.5 W·kg-1), accelerations (>3 m·second-2), and decelerations (<-3 m·second-2). Linear mixed models (significance level set at p < 0.05) assessed the effects of competitive level, position, location, and result, including interaction effects. Cohen’s d was also calculated with 95% confidence interval. Results showed that HSR and HMLD differed across competitive levels, with professional (second tier) matches requiring higher HSR demands (medium effects), and fourth tier greater HMLD demands than third tier (small effect). Positional differences were present in all metrics except accelerations, with wide roles (wingers and wide backs) being exposed to greater demands than central positions (medium to large effects). Match location had limited influence, though total distance was slightly higher at home matches (small effect). Winning was consistently associated with higher physical demands, particularly in the second tier, where players covered more distance at high intensities (HSR and sprinting) than when drawing or losing (small to medium effects). Interaction effects indicated that competition level modulated the influence of player position, match location, and result on physical demands. These findings suggest that professional football imposes higher physical demands (although not for all parameters, e.g., accelerations) than semiprofessional football. Coaches and practitioners should consider competition level and contextual factors when designing training and recovery strategies, particularly for wide-position players and during high-stakes matches.
20 Physical Fitness and External Training Load Represent Distinct Dimensions of Performance in Female Football Players During the Pre-Season
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 May 18;14(5):206. doi: 10.3390/sports14050206.
Authors: Artur Avelino Birk Preissler, Filipe Manuel Clemente et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13210574/pdf/sports-14-00206.pdf
Summary: Monitoring performance in football often combines physical testing and GPS-derived external-load measures, although their relationships remain unclear. This study examined the relationships between physical-test outcomes and GPS-derived external-load variables during the pre-season in professional female football players and whether these measures appear to capture distinct dimensions of performance. This observational study monitored 24 outfield players from a Brazilian Women’s First Division team during a 6-week pre-season. Players performed the countermovement jump, 10 m and 30 m sprints, change-of-direction test, and 30-15 intermittent fitness test while external load was recorded across field sessions. Associations were examined using Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlations, and principal component analysis (PCA) was applied. Significant correlations were more frequent within than between domains. Total distance correlated with accelerations (ρ = 0.740, p < 0.001), decelerations (ρ = 0.684, p < 0.001), Z3 distance (ρ = 0.595, p = 0.003), and Z4 distance (ρ = 0.584, p = 0.003), while sprint count correlated with sprint distance (r = 0.950, p < 0.001). Estimated VO2max correlated positively with CMJ (r = 0.533, p = 0.007) and negatively with 10 m (r = -0.445, p = 0.029) and 30 m sprint times (r = -0.476, p = 0.019). PCA identified two components explaining 61.4% of the total variance: external load (40.6%) and physical performance (20.8%). These findings indicate that both approaches capture distinct and complementary aspects of performance.
21 Within-System Agreement Between Real-Time and Post-Processed Data Using Dynamix from League Optical Tracking (Hawk-Eye) in Professional Football
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 May 15;14(5):202. doi: 10.3390/sports14050202.
Authors: Marco Beato, Paolo Troiani, Chiara Zinco, Dario Pompa, Maurizio Bertollo, Cristian Savoia
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13211446/pdf/sports-14-00202.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the within-system agreement and interchangeability of real-time and post-processed external load metrics in elite football. Data were collected from 50 official Serie A matches using Dynamix (K-Sport World S.R.L., Pesaro, Italy), the platform for acquiring and standardizing tracking inputs. SmartLive, a real-time monitoring module embedded within Dynamix, was compared with post-processed data from the league-approved optical tracking provider (Hawk-Eye Innovations Limited, Basingstoke, UK) in Serie A. The external load metrics analyzed included total distance covered; distances at speeds exceeding 15, 20, and 25 km·h-1; distances within the 15-20 km·h-1 and 20-25 km·h-1 ranges; distance covered during accelerations > 2 m·s-2 and decelerations < -2 m·s-2; and peak speed. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) demonstrated excellent agreement across all metrics, with values ranging from 0.929 to 0.999. Bland-Altman analysis revealed small mean differences between systems, indicating strong agreement. Overall, the findings confirm that both real-time and post-processed data are in close agreement across a wide range of performance metrics. Minor discrepancies were observed in intermediate speed zones and acceleration/deceleration events. This study provides the first validation of SmartLive’s within-system agreement with post-processed data, supporting its use alongside post-processed data in elite football environments.
22 Comparative Efficacy of Dynamic Taping and Tissue Flossing Combined With Resistance Band Training on Dynamic Balance, Jump Performance, Agility, Sprint Velocity, and Lower Limb Strength in Young Football Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol
Reference: Physiother Res Int. 2026 Jul;31(3):e70241. doi: 10.1002/pri.70241.
Authors: Mohd Asif, Mohammad Sidiq, Jyoti Sharma
Summary: Football is a physiologically demanding sport that places large biomechanical loads on the lower limbs, predisposing adolescent players to knee and ankle injuries. Agility, dynamic balance and lower-extremity strength are therefore central to both performance and injury prevention. Emerging adjuncts such as dynamic taping and tissue flossing, combined with neuromuscular resistance-band training, have shown promise for enhancing performance metrics and lowering injury risk. This will be a three-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial adhering to CONSORT 2025 and SPIRIT 2013 guidelines. Eighty-one male footballers aged 14-18 years (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg m-2, ≥ 1-year competitive experience, no lower-limb injury in the preceding 6 months) will be recruited from Delhi-NCR academies. Participants will be block-randomized (block size 7) in a 1:1:1 ratio to (A) dynamic taping plus resistance-band training, (B) tissue flossing plus resistance-band training, or (C) resistance-band training only. The 4-week intervention will be delivered three times per week (≈35 min session-1) by certified sports physiotherapists. Change in the Y-Balance Test composite score at 4 weeks were used as the primary outcome and counter-movement jump height, T-test agility, 40-m sprint time, and 1-RM squat and dead-lift as the secondary one. Sample size was computed with G*Power 3.1.9.7 for repeated-measures ANOVA (effect size 0.25, α 0.05, power 0.80, 3 groups, 4 measurements, 20% attrition), yielding 81 participants. Results will clarify the relative benefits of adding dynamic taping or tissue flossing to standard resistance-band training in youth football. Findings will inform evidence-based non-invasive conditioning and rehabilitation strategies for physiotherapists and coaches. This will be the first three-arm, parallel-group RCT to quantify the isolated and additive effects of dynamic taping and tissue flossing when super-imposed on a standardized, youth-specific resistance-band program. The trial is powered to detect a 6-point between-group difference in the Y-Balance composite score (MCID = 5.5) and is prospectively registered with an openly available SAP. In case either adjunct is better, clinicians can immediately have an inexpensive tool to boost balance, sprint capacity and lower-limb strength in adolescent footballers, hence decreasing injury burden. To confirm long-term stability, involve female participants, and incorporate mechanistic functions (e.g., EMG, motion-capture) to elucidate neuro-muscular pathways, longer-term multi-center trials are needed.