Perceptions of Performance Analysis in Elite Youth Football

This study examined perceptions of performance analysis (PA) within elite youth football. More specifically, this study set out to investigate and examine perceptions of PA, and how it is perceived to impact upon players performances individually and collectively. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, which were conducted with academy players, full time academy coaches, and performance analysts, associated with an English Premier League Academy team. The findings from this study suggest that within elite youth football, three areas are key considerations when thinking about video-based performance analysis: a) impact of video-based PA upon team and individual performance, b) video-based PA as a tool for reflection, and c) psychological implications associated with video-based PA.