Multidimensional performance characteristics of youth academy and club soccer players

Abstract

Talent identification and development (TID) in soccer is complex. While physical performance and skeletal age (as an estimate of biological maturation) are well-established in TID research, the combined role of psychological skills and cognitive function remains underexplored. The aim of this study was to examine multidimensional performance characteristics among U14 players by comparing match-selected academy players (n = 20), non-match selected academy players (n = 14), and club players (n = 22). In total 56 players performed 40 m sprint test, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (IR1), and completed validated self-reported mental skills and motivation questionnaires. Executive functions were assessed using tests from Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) and skeletal age was assessed from left-hand X-ray images. The results showed that match-selected academy players were significantly taller, had higher weight and bone age compared to both club players and non-match-selected academy players. Match-selected academy players had significantly better physical performance and reported stronger mental skills, compared to club players. Club players reported higher levels of amotivation and external regulation compared to both match-selected and non-match-selected academy players, reflecting a lessself-determined motivational profile. Match-selected academy players demonstrated better decision-making, characterized by a significantly lower tendency to take risks to avoid delay and a greater ability to rationally adjust risk compared to club players. No further group differences were found for the executive function tests between groups.