Physical Culture and Sport: Studies and Research (Jun 2016)

Social Talent Scouting: A New Opportunity for the Identification of Football Players?

  • Radicchi Elena,
  • Mozzachiodi Michele

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1515/pcssr-2016-0012
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 70, no. 1
pp. 28 – 43

Abstract

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This paper investigates the diffusion of digital technologies within the football talent scouting process. A qualitative exploration based on open discussions and unstructured interviews with professionals involved in the football system (coaches, scouts, players’ agents, etc.) provides insights about how new technologies are used for recruiting athletes. The findings, which are mainly in the context of Italian football, indicate a cultural and generational gap in the use of new digital tools that creates a mismatch between young promising athletes (demand side) and “senior” team professionals (supply side).

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