The Protective Role of the FIFA 11+ Training Program on the Valgus Loading of the Knee in Academy Soccer Players Across a Season

: Improper neuromuscular control with excessive dynamic valgus loading of the knee has been identified as one of the main anterior cruciate ligament injury risk factors. This study aimed to analyze the impact of the FIFA 11+ training program on the valgus loading of the knee in academy soccer players over a competitive season. : A prospective study was conducted on 85 players. The drop vertical jump test was carried out before the match and at the end of the same match at the beginning and at the end of the season over a period of 11 months. : An increase of the varus angle on the right limb was noted between the start and the end of the season at the beginning of the match (-4.7 ± 8.9 versus -6.9 ± 6, = 0.003) and between the start and the end of the match in values measured at the beginning of the season (-4.7 ± 8.9 versus -7.7 ± 9, < 0.001). An increase of the flexion angle of both limbs was noted between the start and the end of the season in values measured at the start of the match (left limb 76.8 ± 32.8 versus 98.6 ± 17.2, < 0.001; right limb 76.4 ± 32.8 versus 96.1 ± 16.1, < 0.001) and between the start and the end of the season in values measured at the end of the match (left limb 92.8 ± 19.1 versus 98.5 ± 16.3, = 0.002; right limb 92.6 ± 19.2 versus 96.7 ± 14.5, = 0.013). : A decrease in dynamic valgus angle and an increase in knee flexion angle measured with the DVJ test were noted between the start and the end of the season, suggesting a protective role of the FIFA 11+ training program.