Exploring the influence of playing styles on physical demands in professional football

Abstract

Purpose The aim of the current study was to investigate differences in the physical performance indicators when implementing various playing styles across a range of tactical situations. Methods The sample comprised 238 matches (476 observations) from the 2021–22 season of the Turkish league’s 1st division. For each observation, nine physical performance indicators obtained through the InStat Scout optical tracking method were analysed. Additionally, 19 factor scores (representing 19 tactical situations) derived from previous research were utilised to categorise each observation into two distinct playing styles. Results Effect sizes (Cohen’s d) obtained from independent samples t-tests revealed significant differences in physical performance indicators in 17 out of the 19 tactical situations. Match interruptions, transitions, final attempts, and the starting position on the field from which a team initiates pressing were identified as influential factors in determining physical demands. Conversely, the playing style adopted by teams during the build-up phase (possession or direct play) did not appear to significantly alter the physical demands. Conclusions The results indicate that in various tactical situations, the physical demands vary based on the playing style adopted by the teams. These findings carry practical implications, as they can assist coaches in making decisions that combine tactical and physical factors.

Keywords

• soccer
• game style
• performance indicators
• fitness
• physiological demands