Influência da posição de jogo e da faixa etária no desempenho físico de jovens atletas de futebol

Abstract

Introduction: Football is a highly competitive sport that demands a high level of physical performance from its athletes. However, the physical demands during a match depend on several factors, such as the match outcome, location, level of opposition, standings (in the case of league competitions), and the player’s position on the field. Objective: his study aimed to investigate differences in the physical performance of youth soccer players from different age categories (U-13 to U-20), considering both age group and playing position. The assessments included acceleration, sprint speed, agility, vertical jump, and aerobic capacity tests. Methods: This dissertation is structured in two chapters: the first presents a systematic review conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, and the second consists of an experimental article, characterized as a cross-sectional observational study. The sample consisted of 153 youth soccer players aged between 13 and 20 years, all belonging to a club that competes in the first division of the Brazilian Championship. Data collection took place over two non-consecutive days for each age category. On the first day, the athletes signed the informed consent form and underwent body composition assessment and the countermovement jump (CMJ) test, conducted in a closed and climate-controlled environment. On the second day, the tests were conducted on the training field in a standardized sequence: acceleration test (10 m sprint), sprint speed (30 m sprint), change of direction (zigzag agility test), and aerobic capacity (Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test). Results: The systematic review revealed that, although some position-specific tendencies exist, there is no consistent pattern between neuromuscular capacities and playing positions. Age and biological maturation appeared to be more relevant factors influencing physical performance, with variations among studies depending on the methods, tools used, and country of origin. In the experimental study, no significant differences were found in performance variables across different playing positions. However, a clear progression was observed across age categories, with older groups showing better results. Anthropometric differences were also noted between categories, with center-backs generally being taller and heavier than fullbacks and midfielders. Conclusion: The findings indicate that, among youth soccer players, there are no substantial neuromuscular performance differences between playing positions. This suggests that, despite the tactical demands associated with each position, physical qualities are more strongly influenced by factors such as the club’s talent identification process, training structure, biological individuality, and maturational stage