The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast
How data and AI is shaping football
Feb 20, 2025
Paul Power, Director of AI at SkillCorner, shares his expertise on how data and AI are revolutionizing football. He discusses the transformative effects of analytics in player recruitment and performance assessment. Discover how metrics like distance run influence player motivation and team dynamics. The conversation also explores the evolution of football analytics, addressing misconceptions and the increasing acceptance of data within the sport. Power highlights the future of AI's role in decision-making and tactical strategies, emphasizing its potential impact on the game.
51:22
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Quick takeaways
- Data significantly aids football clubs in informed recruitment decisions by providing critical player insights and minimizing risks associated with acquisitions.
- While data reinforces existing tactical approaches in football, it plays a pivotal role in evaluating strategies like counter-pressing through metrics like expected goals (xG).
Deep dives
The Role of Data in Player Recruitment
Data plays a crucial role in football recruitment by helping clubs minimize risks when acquiring new players. Through organizations like Skill Corner, teams can access detailed physical data and contextual information about players, which allows for accurate comparisons across different leagues. Clubs often lack comprehensive data when scouting international players, making this contextual analysis essential for informed decisions. Understanding player movements and decision-making processes is vital, as raw data alone, such as distance run, does not provide the full picture of a player's abilities.
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