Futsal as a potential talent development modality for soccer - a quantitative assessment of high-level soccer coach and player perceptions

Abstract

A contemporary issue in soccer talent development is the potential use of futsal as a training tool. This paper utilised survey methods to quantitatively assess the perspectives of high-level coaches working in youth player education, and players of futsal and 11-a-side soccer (n=77). Respondents completed surveys before and following a showcase game between an Under-21 international futsal team competing against a Premier League Under-21 soccer team. Responses were positive about futsal generally as a training aid and specifically, skills transfer from futsal into soccer performance. The majority of respondents (89.6%) indicated ‘post-game’ that they considered futsal could be useful for soccer talent development. Similarly, 90.9% stated they would consider its integration in their training/games program. Analysis of opinions on futsal regarding its constraints and the impact its specific rules may have on skill acquisition generally reported positive perceptions: 89.6% of participants suggested that pitch size improved skills (strongly agree=33.8%, agree=55.8%), 88.3% believed the pass back rule enhanced ball reception skills (strongly agree=27.3%, agree=61%), and 89.2% perceived that futsal can help develop ‘multifunctional’ players (strongly agree=27.3%, agree=62.3%). This knowledge of the constraints and potential for skill acquisition linked to futsal participation is a first step in aiding soccer coaches to understand potential learning returns from its inclusion in talent development policies and programs.