Playing professional football in Europe demands a combination of physical, technical, tactical, and mental skills, all of which are measured through various performance metrics. Here are some key metrics typically assessed by scouts, coaches, and sports scientists:
Source: FIFA Training Centre, Qatar World Cup 2022
1. Physical Metrics
Speed: Top speeds of 30-35 km/h are common among elite players. Sprints over short distances (5-10 meters) are critical for acceleration in tight spaces.
Endurance: Ability to maintain high-intensity running over 90 minutes. Elite midfielders may cover 10-13 km per game, with high-intensity bursts throughout.
Agility: Measured through short change-of-direction drills, often including 5-10 meter lateral or zigzag runs.
Strength: Core and lower body strength are essential for stability, tackling, and balance. Metrics such as squat and vertical jump height (often over 50 cm) provide insight.
Recovery: Quick recovery times between high-intensity actions, measured by heart rate recovery (HRR) metrics.
2. Technical Metrics
Passing Accuracy: Midfielders and playmakers often have passing accuracies above 80-90% in professional leagues.
Dribbling Success Rate: For forwards and wingers, a high dribbling success rate (over 50%) is essential for taking on defenders.
Ball Control and First Touch: A critical skill, especially in high-pressure situations, measured by successful controls under pressure.
Crossing and Set Piece Quality: Accuracy of crosses, free kicks, and corners, often measured in successful deliveries into the box.
Shooting Efficiency: Conversion rates (shots-to-goals ratio) and shooting accuracy (on-target percentage), with strikers aiming for high ratios.
3. Tactical and Cognitive Metrics
Positioning: Measured by "expected positioning" metrics in various phases of the game, such as during offensive build-up or defensive transition.
Decision-Making Speed: Measured by time taken to make optimal passes, shots, or runs.
Spatial Awareness: Ability to read the field and position oneself effectively, often assessed in game analysis.
Anticipation and Reaction Time: The ability to predict and react to opponent movements or loose balls quickly.
4. Mental and Psychological Metrics
Concentration and Focus: Maintained performance quality over the full 90 minutes, evaluated through consistency in passing, marking, and positioning.
Resilience and Adaptability: Ability to adapt to different game situations, playing conditions, and adversities.
Communication: Verbal and non-verbal communication with teammates and coaches, critical for defenders and midfielders in organizing plays.
5. Game-Specific Metrics
Goals and Assists: Primary metrics for attackers; midfielders are also evaluated on these in relation to their role.
Defensive Actions: Tackles, interceptions, blocks, and clearances for defenders and defensive midfielders.
Pressing and Ball Recovery: Frequency and success of pressing actions, crucial for midfielders and forwards in high-pressing teams.
Expected Goals (xG) and Expected Assists (xA): Advanced metrics to assess the quality of scoring chances created and taken.
