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 Physical fitness and hormonal responses to strength training in adolescent elite female soccer players
Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2026 Jul 6;18(1):310. doi: 10.1186/s13102-026-01855-x.
Authors: Manel Darragi, Amira B M Zouita, Mariem Bousselmi et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13343932/pdf/13102_2026_Article_1855.pdf
Summary: It is well-established that strength training (ST) improves physical fitness in young athletes. However, its specific effects on hormonal changes in female soccer players are unresolved. We examined the influence of a twelve-week ST program conducted twice per week on soccer-related measures of physical fitness and hormonal profiles in adolescent elite female soccer players. Twenty-four elite young female soccer players aged 15.3 ± 0.9 years (body-mass-index [BMI]: 20.8 ± 1.9 kg/m²) and Tier 4 training and performance caliber participated in this study. Players were randomly assigned to either an ST group (STG, n = 12) or an active control group (CG, n = 12). Several parameters were determined pre- and post-training including absolute and relative to kg body mass 1-RM in bench/leg press, countermovement jump (CMJ), linear sprint speed (5-m, 10-m, 30-m sprints), speed of changing directions (T-test with and without ball), sport-specific efficiency (Yo-Yo Intermittent Level1 [YYIRTL1]) and repeated shuttle sprint ability (RSSA). Cortisol (C), testosterone (T), growth hormone (GH), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) were assessed using blood samples collected after 12 h of fasting, before and after the ST program. No significant baseline between-group differences were observed. Statistically significant group-by-time interactions were found for muscle strength measures (e.g., relative 1-RM leg press, p = 0.046, d = 0.59), vertical jump performance (e.g., CMJ, p = 0.007, d = 1.28), and soccer-specific performance (e.g., RSSAMean, p < 0.001, d = 2.67). Post-hoc tests demonstrated significant increases for 1-RM leg press (p = 0.046, d = 0.59), CMJ (p = 0.007, d = 1.28), and RSSAMean (p < 0.001, d = 2.67) in STG. Furthermore, no significant group-by-time interactions were observed for hormonal markers (T, C, GH, and IGF-1; p > 0.05). While the ST program significantly improved physical fitness in adolescent female Tier 4 soccer players, no substantial changes were observed in hormonal markers. These findings suggest that ST-related physical adaptations observed in this population may not be directly linked to the hormonal markers measured in this study.
#2 Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis Was Not Associated With Improved Mid-term Outcomes After Primary BPTB ACL Reconstruction in Amateur Soccer Players: A Prospective Comparative Cohort Study
Reference: J Knee Surg. 2026 Jul 6. doi: 10.1055/a-2908-2103. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Ivan Jose Bitar, Damian Gabriel Bustos, Lucas Daniel Marangoni et al.
Summary: The aim was to compare clinical and functional outcomes in competitive amateur soccer players undergoing isolated bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) versus BPTB ACLR combined with lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) using a modified Lemaire technique. In this prospective, nonrandomized comparative cohort study, 165 athletes treated between 2017 and 2020 were enrolled, 150 (91%) completed minimum 5-year follow-up. Surgical technique was selected according to the surgeon’s evolving practice. Seventy-four underwent isolated BPTB ACLR and 76 underwent BPTB ACLR + LET. Primary outcomes were IKDC, Lysholm, Tegner, graft failure (rerupture or symptomatic objective instability), and reoperations. Secondary outcomes were stability, return to sport (RTS), radiographic osteoarthritis, and range of motion. IKDC MCID/PASS and Lysholm PASS (≥85 points) were recorded. Both groups showed significant improvements in PROMs from baseline (p < .001). At final follow-up, no between-group differences were found for IKDC (mean difference, 2.4; p = .14), Lysholm score (2.9; p = .07), or Tegner activity level (0.5; p = .11). IKDC MCID and PASS rates were similarly high between groups (88.5% vs 90.1% and 84.2% vs 86.0%, respectively), as were Lysholm PASS rates (67.6% vs 80.3%). Graft failure rates were low and comparable (5.3% vs 4.1%; p = .72), as were reoperation rates (9.4% vs 10.5%; p = .81). Knee stability improved in both groups, with comparable final side-to-side differences of approximately 2 mm. Return to competitive amateur soccer was achieved by 82.4% of patients in the BPTB group and 80.2% in the BPTB+LET group. Radiographic osteoarthritis was observed in 17.1% and 25.8% of patients (p = .24). In competitive amateur soccer players, adding LET to primary BPTB ACLR was not associated with superior PROMs, knee stability, or RTS at mid-term follow-up. Both procedures showed similarly low graft-failure and reoperation rates and comparable functional recovery.
#3 Effects of different conditioning activities performed after soccer-specific warm-up on post-activation performance enhancement
Reference: PLoS One. 2026 Jul 6;21(7):e0352993. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0352993. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Alper Kartal, Muhammet Taha Ilhan, Esin Ergin et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13336218/pdf/pone.0352993.pdf
Summary: The post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) effect has been widely studied; however, studies conducted under real-world conditions remain limited. Furthermore, investigations into how different conditioning activities (CAs) influence PAPE responses are also scarce. Therefore, this study investigates the acute effects of high-intensity barbell hip thrust (BHT) and back squat (BS) exercises, performed after a soccer-specific warm-up (Wup), on physical performance in soccer players. Seventeen male amateur soccer players participated in the study (mean age: 22.29 ± 3.60 years; height: 1.78 ± 0.06 m; body weight: 73.18 ± 8.44 kg). Participants attended 5 experimental sessions. In the first session, after anthropometric assessments, participants were familiarized with the exercises and tests. In the second session, one-repetition maximum (1RM) was tested for BS and HT exercises. In the following three sessions, two PAPE protocols and one traditional (TRAD) protocol were performed in a randomized order. In the TRAD protocol, players performed physical performance tests including countermovement jump (CMJ), 10-m and 30-m sprint, and zigzag agility 16 minutes after a soccer-specific Wup. In the PAPE protocols, players performed CAs (e.g., hip thrust or back squat) at 85% of 1RM for 2 sets of 3 repetitions following a soccer-specific Wup, and completed the tests 8 minutes later. Results from the linear mixed-effects models revealed no significant effect of protocol on any performance variable, including CMJ (F(2,32) = 1.554, p = 0.227), 10 m sprint (F(2,32) = 0.242, p = 0.786), 30 m sprint (F(2,32) = 0.453, p = 0.640), and change of direction (COD) performance (F(2,32) = 0.946, p = 0.399). Marginal R² values indicated that the protocol explained only a minimal proportion of variance in performance outcomes (0.005-0.030), whereas conditional R² and ICC values suggested that between-participant differences accounted for a substantial proportion of variance, particularly for CMJ and 30 m sprint performance. Bonferroni-adjusted pairwise comparisons further showed no significant differences between PAPEBHT, PAPEBS, and TRAD protocols for CMJ, 10 m sprint, 30 m sprint, or COD performance (all p > 0.05). In conclusion, neither PAPE protocol performed after a soccer-specific warm-up significantly enhanced or impaired subsequent CMJ, sprint, or COD performance compared with the traditional warm-up. These findings suggest that adding PAPEBHT or PAPEBS protocols after a soccer-specific warm-up may maintain subsequent performance without inducing measurable decrements; however, their ergogenic effectiveness may depend on individual factors such as players‘ strength levels, recovery capacity, training status, and physical characteristics.
#4 Seasonal Changes in Collegiate Division-I Soccer Athlete Countermovement Jump Performance
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 Jul 6. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005504. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Casey J Metoyer, Jonathon R Lever, Derek Langman et al.
Summary: This study examined seasonal changes in countermovement jump (CMJ) performance among NCAA Division I male and female soccer athletes across competitive and off-season phases. Twenty-three male and 16 female athletes completed CMJ testing at 6 in-season and 6 off-season time points using uniaxial force plates. Variables assessed included jump height, peak power, countermovement depth, modified reactive strength index, and eccentric-specific metrics such as force at zero velocity, eccentric rate of force development, and eccentric duration. Linear mixed models were used to analyze within-season changes. Concentric performance metrics remained stable during the in-season for both sexes, while significant declines in eccentric variables were observed. In men, countermovement depth and eccentric velocity decreased in the latter half of the season (p < 0.05). Women exhibited more pronounced fatigue responses, including reductions in eccentric rate of force development, force at zero velocity, and increased eccentric duration (p < 0.05). In the off-season, both men and women demonstrated significant improvements in peak power, relative power, and concentric impulse (p < 0.05), with female athletes also improving jump height and eccentric metrics. These findings highlight the utility of CMJ force plate metrics in detecting neuromuscular fatigue and performance adaptation. While resistance training may help preserve concentric performance during the season, eccentric function seems more vulnerable, particularly in women, underscoring the need for targeted eccentric training and monitoring. The off-season presents a valuable window for restoring and enhancing lower-body power.
#5 The 2026 FIFA Consensus on Cardiac Screening and Emergency Action Planning in Adult Professional Football
Reference: Eur J Prev Cardiol. 2026 Jul 10:zwag202. doi: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwag202. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Ricardo Stein, Aaron L Baggish, Mauricio Milani
Download link: https://watermark02.silverchair.com/zwag202.pdf?token=AQECAHi208BE49Ooan9kkhW_Ercy7Dm3ZL_9Cf3qfKAc485ysgAAA2swggNnBgkqhkiG9w0BBwagggNYMIIDVAIBADCCA00GCSqGSIb3DQEHATAeBglghkgBZQMEAS4wEQQMN5ddyzV0VmJn4CAnAgEQgIIDHtSbJKJWuG2su-tYCRjz8dNSWmdi2P7lerEWgdTPrbN1j4WU4ZaT4QIhzZvBxXRIhp8fGuOBZxECUASNFyLCEj1E96mMpZCVGsbaE7JWI1S1HgtOHKdcwBkNxFC_QsAb_MH4_HsDOQmpaK3IqEyzeL_d-Uc-HwA04jng2xeeTKBJq3uk7jg8IixffPLguqdw6tsTrAi90ffr6lb9OMSUNa-dfpMHqJk4nAYsOCF-y3gwn0w0J_u4vzTORt3ZavWrO7PnALDcioFkXm0tsNt-btXTL46amotNwI5-SSo91zi-HMaKTc1a_f1NADtOW-NiB9Dr2O919kPdcG8h1hBHWLlQL64Y8bvbeU0XxHFzAf8arMVDU3vgkakXLUIHuys9WlmnLTHu5CbWMHEM0gO_CV3MSlncCR_bL2tuDrkvkYx7IadSar6M-ib9MPBlP3odPLmY47vHM8SI1cHuWeFyPyZ4rURmhPgQcNi43y0D88yfJTgD6KVosBv5Kl2C1bJxkVkFirEP-VFpqZ9yfK56txwYxdfMIqKNWajXv5rBsQ-_876sfr4lutxlYKqh3OXKRYuE72ZNqDeUUJyAkeQ_bDAlWmlJKXtIXw63iyArEIYiwL1gbqcbd97uQx45OR5bPBHhGmiZ4EgjrUSWPWBOfefGW7WHjN_dxwajvN2f6-lfoq9WZApmb2eP63DWjAFz15Ribt7uB9g6LW8twkA7CH5MYHdMXcUswTpysG_IZwh5ferB9ehHeoRHe6ETopHo-oOAZN_qsQZJZYLMl7AZDBBL6WBDJMq0zVd8WJAkZ7KJLzw9nr-C897YjvG9dPxLVGM4IRqL0MGEZjhD-8WHvnWVwNGe4oUPOs_cAU7yo4aP4k9UH-DivpG5U9jmsR5QiwFFPNoPYbuVagOaFicXr0OztCkHx-c-a1LX3aZUBqF1ezLWu4Yowt7A84EWGX4sYDGBk7kubo23qIHkplZcnbyrG499kkLh4doAiIVWAKQx5tAaRk2mBKElH486FCSCUSlh1c-XBqVz5oETFglnqP8GgV4bvHQpPS4AFzrwlQ
#6 Associations Between the Horizontal Force-Velocity Profile and Change of Direction Asymmetries and Phase-Specific Performance in Elite U21 Football Players
Reference: Eur J Sport Sci. 2026 Aug;26(8):e70219. doi: 10.1002/ejsc.70219.
Authors: Adam Lipčák, Ana Carolina Paludo, Tomáš Kalina et al.
Download link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/ejsc.70219
Summary: The horizontal force-velocity profile (H-FVP) provides insights into sprint mechanical capacities, but its relationship with change of direction (COD) performance, inter-limb asymmetry, and phase-specific outcomes in elite football remains unclear. This study examined associations between H-FVP variables and COD performance in 15 elite male players from the Czech Republic U21 national team. Athletes performed a 40 m sprint and a 15-0-5 COD test with a motorized resistance device. H-FVP variables (F0, V0, Pmax, RF, DRF) were derived from sprint trials, while COD outcomes included overall times, asymmetry indices, and specific phases. Correlations were calculated between sprint mechanics and COD outcomes. Significant relationships were observed between H-FVP and COD performance on the dominant leg. Faster COD times were correlated with higher F0 (r = -0.73, p < 0.01), Pmax and RF (r = -0.72, p < 0.01), and with lower DRF. Sprint performance also correlated negatively with F0 and Pmax. In contrast, relationships between H-FVP and COD asymmetry were limited, although V0 showed positive correlations with overall and Phase 1b asymmetry. Phase-specific analysis revealed stronger links with Phase 1a and initial acceleration, particularly on the dominant side, whereas deceleration and re-acceleration phases showed weaker or inconsistent correlations. These findings indicate that H-FVP, especially F0 and Pmax, is strongly related to sprint and early COD performance but provides limited information on inter-limb asymmetry and later COD phases. Integrating horizontal sprint profiling with phase-specific COD assessments may therefore enhance athlete monitoring and training design in elite football players.
#7 The acute effect of training on hip adduction strength within a football microcycle
Reference: Biol Sport. 2026 Apr 20:43:1243-1251. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2026.159562. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Maziar J Hamad, Pedro E Alcaraz, Kristian Thorborg, Steve Barrett, Konstantinos Spyrou
Download link: https://www.termedia.pl/The-acute-effect-of-training-on-hip-adduction-strength-within-a-football-microcycle,78,57601,1,1.html
Summary: This exploratory study aimed to examine the changes to hip adduction strength within the football microcycle. The microcycle included the following training sessions: match day minus 4 (MD-4), MD-2 and MD-1. Twelve male youth football players were recruited (age: 17.11 ± 0.52 years; body mass: 72.63 ± 5.53 kg; height: 1.78 ± 0.05 m) and had their maximal isometric hip adduction strength (ADDiso) measured before and immediately after each training session. Players wore foot-mounted inertial measurement units (Playermaker) during each training session to quantify locomotor activities. A linear mixed model and one sample t test were used to assess ADDiso and percent changes, respectively. Statistical significance was set at ≤ 0.05. The group arrived at MD-1 with the lowest strength of the week, but finished the training with recovered ADDiso, similar to all other pre-match time points (MD-4pre, 3.04 Nmkg-1; MD-2pre, 3.09 Nmkg-1; MD-1pre, 3.04 Nmkg-1, p > 0.05). The group-level post-training percent changes to ADDiso were: MD-4, -4.00 ± 7.29%, p = 0.083; MD-2, -3.76 ± 5.04%, p = 0.043; and MD-1, 7.43 ± 4.92%, p < 0.001. In summary, high-intensity training sessions with high-speed running and change of direction actions were associated with reductions of hipadduction strength, while sessions with less high-intensity locomotor demands while emphasising shooting actions were associated with a potentiating effect on ADDiso. This is important considering the relationship between hip adduction strength and groin injury and pain.
#8 Match running performance upon return to play in professional male LaLiga football players following anterior cruciate ligament rupture
Reference: Biol Sport. 2026 Apr 13:43:1161-1170. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2026.160857. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Manuel Manchón-Davó, Aarón Miralles-Iborra, Juan Del Coso et al.
Download link: https://www.termedia.pl/Match-running-performance-upon-return-to-play-in-professional-male-LaLiga-football-players-following-anterior-cruciate-ligament-rupture,78,57884,0,1.html
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the impact of an anterior cruciate ligament rupture on the level of competition and match running performance over the following three seasons after return-to-play in professional male football players. Fifty-one football players from LaLiga who sustained a complete anterior cruciate ligament rupture were retrospectively followed over the three seasons after their return-to-play. Their level of competition and match running performance metrics were obtained via Mediacoach® and subsequently compared across different time points: (1) PRE (season before injury); (2) INJ (season of the anterior cruciate ligament rupture); and (3) POST1, (4) POST2, and (5) POST3 (first, second, and third seasons after returning-to-play). Outcomes were analysed overall, by field position and by age group (≤ 25 and > 25 years). By the POST3 season following the anterior cruciate ligament injury, 35 of the 51 players (68.5%) were still competing in one of the top five UEFA leagues (34 in LaLiga and 1 in another top-five league), 11 (21.6%) were playing in lower-tier leagues, and 5 (9.8%) had retired. Maximum running speed decreased at POST1 and POST2 (p < 0.050) compared with PRE. Only players > 25 years experienced a significant decrease in their maximum running speed during POST2 and POST3 (p < 0.050) in comparison with PRE-values. A complete anterior cruciate ligament rupture in football from LaLiga players led to a decline in the level of competition and reductions in their maximum running speed up to three seasons after return-to-play. Players > 25 years were more vulnerable to sustain performance losses.
#9 Technical and tactical performance of major Asian professional football leagues: a comparative analysis of 14,115 matches across six seasons
Reference: Biol Sport. 2026 Apr 13:43:1181-1191. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2026.159568. eCollection 2026 Jan.
Authors: Liangzhu Feng, Yanlong Chen, Zhe Cheng, Hongyou Liu
Download link: https://www.termedia.pl/Technical-and-tactical-performance-of-major-Asian-professional-football-leagues-a-comparative-analysis-of-14-115-matches-across-six-seasons,78,57607,1,1.html
Summary: This study aimed to identify cross-league differences in technical and tactical performance across Asian professional football leagues. Statistics of 14,115 matches from the 2015-2020 seasons of the Chinese Super League (CSL), J League 1 (J1), K League 1 (K1), Saudi Professional League (SPL), Qatar Stars League (QSL), and UAE Arabian Gulf League (AGL) were collected and analysed. Generalised mixed linear modelling was used to estimate mean league differences in 57 match performance-related parameters while controlling for game result, match location, and team and opponent strength. Results showed that differences in offensive outcome and performance-related parameters were generally trivial across leagues (ES ≤ 0.2). In contrast, possession- and progression-related parameters exhibited substantial between-league differences, with J1 demonstrating higher passing frequency and ball progression parameters than the other leagues (ES = 0.36-0.91). Conversely, SPL, CSL, QSL, and AGL recorded higher frequencies of defensive and disciplinary actions, including fouls and yellow cards, compared with J1 and K1 (ES = 0.46-1.33). Hence, it is concluded that technical and tactical performance is generally similar across major Asian professional football leagues, but notable stylistic differences remain. J1 tends to exhibit a possession-oriented and structured playing style, whereas SPL, CSL, QSL, and AGL are characterised by greater physical intensity and more confrontational play. These insights may inform performance analysis and coaching strategies across Asian professional football.
#10 The sacking illusion: A counterfactual analysis of midseason coaching changes using points and expected points in European football
Reference: J Sports Sci. 2026 Jul 9:1-9. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2026.2698238. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Erik Lundkvist, Stefan Holmström, Alexandra Pérez-Ferreirós, Anton Kalén
Summary: Mid-season coaching dismissals are common in professional football, yet it remains unclear whether they improve team performance or merely reflect regression to the mean. We analysed 331 mid-season coaching changes in the first and second men’s divisions of the five highest-ranked European countries (2017/18-2021/22) using match-level data. Teams that dismissed their coach were matched to control teams with identical five-match performance trajectories that retained theirs, and actual points (P) and expected points (xP) were compared over the ten matches following each dismissal. Prior to dismissal, P collapsed from 1.28 to 0.34 points per match whereas xP remained stable (1.26-1.38), a pattern almost identical in treated and control teams. Following the coaching change, no significant treatment effects were observed: average treatment effect on the treated (ATT) estimates ranged from -0.18 to +0.13 for P and from -0.06 to +0.05 for xP, with all confidence intervals including zero. Mid-season coaching changes thus produced no detectable improvement relative to matched controls. The divergence between collapsing results and stable underlying performance suggests that clubs react to outcome variance rather than genuine decline. Integrating expected goals-based trajectory analysis into coach evaluation could help clubs avoid unnecessary and costly dismissals.
#11 Sports supplement consumption, dental health, and salivary parameters in adolescent elite football players: A cross-sectional study
Reference: BMC Oral Health. 2026 Jul 8. doi: 10.1186/s12903-026-09185-7. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Elif Günalan, Kürşat Bakdım, Şeyda Yılmaz et al.
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s12903-026-09185-7_reference.pdf
Summary: Adolescent athletes frequently use sports supplements (SS) to enhance their performance. However, the increased consumption of SS has raised concerns regarding potential long-term associations with oral and dental health outcomes. This study aimed to examine the relationship between sports supplement use and dental health status, including the DMFT index and dental erosion, as well as salivary parameters of adolescent football players. Data on personal characteristics and SS use were collected from 52 participants. Dental health was assessed using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index, Visual Dental Erosion Examination Index, and the Basic Erosive Wear Evaluation. Salivary parameters were analyzed using the GC Check Buffer. The most frequently consumed SS were sports drinks (17.3%), sports bars (17.3%), and vitamin C (13.5%). No significant relationship was found between regular SS consumption and the DMFT index or dental erosion. However, the consumption of sports drinks was significantly associated with resting salivary pH, stimulated salivary volume (mL), and stimulated salivary pH (p < 0.05). In this cohort, sports drink consumption was associated with salivary parameters, including salivary pH and stimulated saliva volume, in exploratory unadjusted analyses. These findings may indicate hypothetical salivary changes, although no corresponding clinical differences in DMFT or erosion were detected in this sample. Consequently, awareness regarding sports drink use among adolescent athletes should be increased as a precautionary measure.
#12 Injury prediction in elite women’s football: an integrative machine learning-based decision-support framework
Reference: NPJ Digit Med. 2026 Jul 8. doi: 10.1038/s41746-026-02937-3. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Manuel Huth, Berta Canal-Simón, Eva Ferrer, Gil Rodas, Xavier Yanguas, Jan Hasenauer, Juan R González
Download link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41746-026-02937-3_reference.pdf
Summary: Injuries in elite sports disrupt team performance, shorten careers, and incur significant financial costs, highlighting the critical need for accurate predictions to inform optimal decisions that effectively prevent injuries. Existing approaches to injury prediction fail to account for cumulative risk, overlook injury severity, lack reliable probability calibration, and omit statistically guided decision thresholds. Here, we present a novel injury prediction framework integrating risk accumulation via survival analysis with machine learning, probability beta calibration, and statistical decision theory. Using a unique dataset spanning four seasons from FC Barcelona’s women’s team, we demonstrate that our framework outperforms standard classifiers, yielding superior discrimination ability. Our framework identifies fatigue-related measures as key injury predictors and incorporates flexible thresholds based on match importance and decision-maker certainty, improving player availability. Scalable and transferable to other sports, this framework bridges academic research and practical deployment, empowering sports organizations to optimize player performance and long-term outcomes.
#13 Pre-Participation Evaluation in Football: A Strategic Pillar for the 2026 and 2027 World Cups
Reference: Arq Bras Cardiol. 2026 Jul 6;123(4):e20260084. doi: 10.36660/abc.20260084. eCollection 2026.
Author: Ricardo Stein
Download link: https://www.scielo.br/j/abc/a/8wXsjM5qPWD9MKgzKhqvGYH/?format=pdf&lang=en
#14 Exploring the presence of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) risk factors in talented Polish youth female football players: A single-team study using the IOC REDs CAT2 tool
Reference: J Sci Med Sport. 2026 Jun 19:S1440-2440(26)00243-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2026.06.012. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Monika Grygorowicz, Sylwia Maksym-Krzesa, Helena Zakliczyńska et al.
Download link: https://www.jsams.org/action/showPdf?pii=S1440-2440%2826%2900243-4
Summary: The aim was to explore Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs)-related risk in talented youth female football players in Poland using the International Olympic Committee (IOC) REDs Clinical Assessment Tool version 2 (CAT2), and to examine associations with injury-related outcomes. Twenty-nine talented U-17, U-15, and Talent Pro female football players from the national talent pathway were assessed. REDs-related risk was classified using the IOC REDs CAT2 framework, including clinical history, menstrual status, injury history, bone health assessed by DXA, and selected biochemical markers. Athletes were categorised using the traffic-light system. Associations between REDs indicators and injury history were examined using Fisher’s exact test. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the Haldane-Anscombe correction. Thirteen athletes (44.8%) were classified as having mild REDs-related risk. Stress fracture history and disordered eating attitudes were significantly associated with mild REDs-related risk (p = 0.001; OR 21.0, 95% CI 1.12-395.2). Primary and secondary REDs indicators were more prevalent amongst athletes classified as at risk. Given the exploratory design, small sample size, and wide CIs, ORs were interpreted descriptively. In this selected elite youth female football cohort, nearly half demonstrated indicators consistent with mild REDs-related risk. These findings support the value of early screening and targeted prevention strategies in women’s football. However, the cross-sectional design, small sample size, potential selection bias, and limited statistical power require cautious interpretation and preclude causal conclusions.
#15 High prevalence of muscle stability deficits in semi-professional football players-Adaptive Force assessment reveals selective impairment of holding capacity with preserved maximal strength: A cross-sectional study
Reference: Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2026 Jul 7. doi: 10.1002/ksa.70525. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Laura V Schaefer, Frank N Bittmann, Jaali Ulrich, Robert Prill, Roland Becker
Download link: https://esskajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/ksa.70525
Summary: Despite considerable research, strength screening has shown limited value for injury prediction. The concept of muscle stability assessed by Adaptive Force (AF) offers a distinct perspective-addressing neuromuscular holding capacity closer to injury-prone motions rather than pushing strength. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of muscle stability deficits in football players and their discriminative capacity relative to conventional strength parameters. AF and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) were measured in 23 male semi-professional football players. Five muscle groups were tested bilaterally (knee extensors/flexors; hip flexors/adductors/abductors). AF was assessed by objectified manual muscle tests with a handheld device recording force and angular velocity. AF parameters, MVIC and the conventional hamstrings-to-quadriceps (H:Q) ratio were compared between stability categories. Stability deficits were highly prevalent: 83% of players had at least one deficit; 31% of all tested muscle groups were unstable, highest in hip abductors (52%) followed by hamstrings (46%). The maximal holding capacity was selectively impaired in unstable muscles (on average 61% lower than the maximal force output), while MVIC and maximal AF did not differ between stability categories. The ratio of holding capacity to maximal AF (AF-Ratio) was the strongest discriminator (stable vs. unstable: d = 6.62, ω2 = 0.88), largely consistent across muscle groups and uncorrelated with the H:Q ratio. The H:Q ratio failed to discriminate between stable and unstable hamstrings (d = -0.04), whereas the AF-Ratio discriminated strongly (d = 6.43). Muscle instability represents a selective impairment of holding capacity with preserved maximal strength, not detected by MVIC testing. By capturing a distinct neuromuscular function, AF offers a novel mechanistic framework beyond pushing strength. Further studies in larger samples and prospective designs are required to assess the potential utility of stability assessment in clinical practice.
#16 Variations in Isometric Strength and Rate of Force Development Across the Menstrual and Hormonal Contraceptive Cycle in Elite Female Football Players
Reference: Res Q Exerc Sport. 2026 Jul 6:1-10. doi: 10.1080/02701367.2026.2696560. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Lars Erlien Furu, David McGhie, Guro Strøm Solli, Terje Dalen
Summary: The aim was to examine variation in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), rate of force development (RFD), and hamstrings-to-quadriceps (H/Q) ratio across estimated menstrual cycle phases and intervals in hormonal contraceptive (HC) users among elite female football players. Forty-two players (non-HC: n = 21; HC: n = 21) completed twice-weekly quadriceps and hamstring strength tests during a 40-day pre-season period. Non-HC tests were categorized into estimated early follicular, late follicular, and mid-luteal phases using app/calendar tracking; corresponding intervals were applied for HC users. Self-reported fitness, sleep quality, performance, and menstrual-related symptoms were collected. Mixed ANOVAs examined MVIC, RFD, and H/Q ratio. In non-HC players, quadriceps MVIC was higher in the estimated late follicular phase than in the estimated early follicular (p < .001, d = 0.69) and mid-luteal phases (p = .004, d = 0.53). Quadriceps RFD was lower in the estimated early follicular phase than in the estimated late follicular (p = .026, d = 0.43) and mid-luteal phases (p = .001, d = 0.61). No clear phase-related variation was observed in hamstring strength or H/Q ratio. In HC users, MVIC, RFD, and H/Q ratio showed no meaningful variation across corresponding intervals. The estimated early follicular phase coincided with lower perceived performance, daily fitness, and sleep quality, and greater menstrual-related symptom prevalence. Quadriceps isometric strength and rapid force production varied across estimated menstrual cycle phases, whereas neuromuscular strength measures appeared more stable among HC users. Field-based monitoring may help contextualize short-term fluctuations in neuromuscular performance and perceived readiness.
#17 Development and validation of the football emotion scale for Chinese youth players: a psychometric study
Reference: Front Psychol. 2026 Jun 19:17:1790940. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1790940. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Ying Shuai, Shaoshen Wang, Garry Kuan, Bachok Norsa’adah, Yee Cheng Kueh
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13328403/pdf/fpsyg-17-1790940.pdf
Summary: Emotions play a crucial role in youth football performance and development, yet no validated instrument exists for measuring football-specific emotions among young players. This study aimed to develop and validate the Football Emotion Scale (FES) for Chinese youth football players. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among youth football players in China. The study included 492 participants in the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) phase (males 51.8%, females 48.2%) and 450 participants in the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) phase (males 52.2%, females 47.8%). Participants were recruited through purposive sampling from 12 cities across Shandong Province. The scale’s psychometric properties were evaluated using Content Validity Index (CVI), Face Validity Index (FVI), EFA, CFA, Composite Reliability (CR), Average Variance Extracted (AVE), Cronbach’s alpha, and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). The EFA identified a six-factor structure explaining 67.027% of the total variance. The CFA confirmed this structure and supported a second-order model with two higher-order factors. Both models demonstrated excellent fit indices (RMSEA = 0.033, CFI = 0.971, TLI = 0.968, SRMR = 0.037). The scale showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.793-0.894) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.703-0.915). Construct validity was satisfactory, with composite reliability ranging from 0.793 to 0.894 and appropriate inter-factor correlations. The newly developed FES, consisting of 26 items, demonstrates robust psychometric properties and provides a valid and reliable tool for assessing football-specific emotions among Chinese youth players, facilitating research on emotional experiences and informing interventions to enhance player development and wellbeing.
#18 Rational and irrational fan beliefs and psychological distress in football fans: The moderating role of gender, marital status, and match outcome
Reference: J Sports Sci. 2026 Jul 5:1-14. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2026.2698229. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Osman Urfa, Serap Özdemir Bişkin
Summary: Sport fans can experience a variety of dysfunctional emotions and maladaptive behaviors, including anger, hatred, depression, anxiety, and violence. For many years, rational emotive behavioural therapy (REBT) has used the concepts of rational and irrational beliefs to explain the emotions and behaviours exhibited by different groups, such as athletes, students and employees. The current study examines the relationships between rational and irrational fan beliefs, and psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress), in football fans. It also investigates the moderating role of gender, marital status, and match outcomes in these relationships. The study involved 256 football fans, aged between 23 and 48 (Mage = 26.34). Moderator effect analysis was performed using PROCESS Macro. The analyses revealed that psychological distress was negatively correlated with rational fan beliefs and positively correlated with irrational fan beliefs. The moderating role of gender, marital status and match outcome was not significant. Male gender, single status, and losing a match were risk factors for mental health. Overall, the findings indicate that psychological distress is positively associated with irrational beliefs and negatively associated with rational beliefs, regardless of gender, marital status, or match outcome. The results are discussed in relation to REBT and fan studies.