Talent Identification Guide

Across the world, too many promising players go unnoticed – not because they lack potential – but because the systems around them may not be well-equipped to identify talent effectively.

With the support of FIFA Talent Identification Specialists, this guide has been developed to help football clubs and other organisations build stronger, more consistent approaches to talent identification. Whether working at the local, regional or national level, this guide provides both policymakers and practitioners with a clear and adaptable framework to support the design, implementation, and evaluation of a dependable talent identification system – regardless of size, budget or geography. The guide consists of the following chapters:

Dimension 1: Philosophy
Dimension 2: Profiles
Dimension 3: Identification
Dimension 4: Selection
Dimension 5: Constants

Dimension 1: Philosophy

A clear footballing philosophy lays the foundation for a flourishing talent identification strategy. In this dimension, you can learn why philosophy shapes player profiles and every aspect of identifying and selecting talent.

Dimension 2: Profiles

Profiles are the characteristics and attributes defining the type of players needed to execute a playing style. This second dimension reveals the role profiles play in offering clear guidance on what to observe, evaluate and recruit in players.

Dimension 3: Identification

The third dimension highlights how to identify players with potential through well-structured systems and processes. The use of comprehensive scouting environments, player observations and data analytics are factors covered in the third part of the guide.

Dimension 4: Selection

In the fourth dimension, the procedures involved in selecting players for teams are put under the microscope. It addresses the creation and implementation of a long list, a short list, and the decision-making process to support player selection.

Dimension 5: Constants

How do you keep a talent identification process up and running? In the final dimension, the guide reveals the two “constants” needed to successfully and sustainably identify talented players over the long term.