Skill аssessment system for youth football players based on a factorial approach

Abstract

Purpose. This study aims to develop an integrated system for assessing the playing effectiveness of U-15 youth football players by combining technical-tactical indicators with psychological and motivational variables through multidimensional analytical methods.

Methods. A comprehensive methodological framework was applied, incorporating Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to reduce data dimensionality while preserving variance and informational content. The CRITIC method was used to assign weights to objective performance indicators based on contrast intensity and conflict, while the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to derive subjective weights from expert judgments. To identify representative player profiles, k-means clustering was conducted, grouping individuals based on shared performance patterns. The VIKOR method was implemented for multicriteria decision-making, allowing a nuanced ranking of individual players based on their proximity to an ideal profile.

Results. The analysis of 18 youth defenders resulted in the formation of three distinct clusters. The first cluster included technically stable players with strong intrinsic motivation and low anxiety. The second comprised players with intermediate performance metrics, demonstrating clear potential for improvement. The third group included players with limited technical proficiency and elevated anxiety levels, indicating the need for targeted psychological and skill development. The VIKOR-based composite scores effectively differentiated players' performance profiles, supporting data-driven talent identification.

Conclusions. The proposed model provides a holistic and objective framework for evaluating young footballers’ capabilities. Its implementation in youth football academies can significantly enhance the quality of player assessment by enabling individualized training programs, systematic monitoring, and evidence-based selection. The integration of both quantitative and expert-based inputs ensures adaptability and relevance across various coaching environments.