A case study of the use of verbal reports for talent identification purposes in soccer: A Messi affair!

PLoS One. 2019 Nov 12;14(11):e0225033. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225033. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Using a two-study approach, the main purpose of this case study was to explore the use of a verbal reporting methodology to better understand the thought processes of soccer talent scouts during an in-situ talent identification environment. Study 1 developed a standardized coding-scheme to examine verbal cognitions during a single soccer game. Study 2 then utilized this methodology to examine two full-time recruitment staff trained in the use of concurrent verbal reporting before undertaking a live, in-game task. Participants also participated in a debrief interview following the game. The findings of the two studies suggest that developing a verbal reporting protocol is viable, however when applied in a live-game environment it is problematic. Future research should therefore consider a modified version of this task to further explore the cognitions of scouts whilst observing and identifying potential talent.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aptitude*
  • Cognition
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Research Report*
  • Soccer*
  • Young Adult

Grants and funding

The authors received no specific funding for this work.