ABSTRACT

Soccer performance is complex and influenced by environmental, psychological, physiological, physical, technical, and tactical factors. Integrating a holistic management and development system requires the application of science-based practices for the purposes of maximizing player performance, reducing injury risk, providing talent identification and intervention feedback, and optimizing competition readiness. This chapter provides insights into the applications of applied player monitoring systems in soccer. The concept of complex system thinking in soccer is introduced along with a discussion on why, what, and how to integrate applied monitoring practices. Current monitoring methods are reviewed and the benefits and challenges of their application are presented. Lastly, advice is given regarding assessment of organizational readiness, defining and setting monitoring goals, and overcoming barriers during the process of integrating monitoring systems.