12 Dic How Offensive Quality Defines Success in Professional Football: Key Insights for Directors of Football
In professional football, building a squad with offensive talent is not just a strategy; it’s a necessity. A recent study conducted by the Football Intelligence & Sports Performance Area of LALIGA reveals that the most successful teams are characterized by players who consistently create danger in the opponent’s area. This article translates the findings into practical insights for Directors of Football, providing actionable strategies to optimize team planning and in-game performance.
Methodology: How the Study Was Conducted
The study analyzed data from LaLiga EA Sports players during the 2023/24 season, focusing on those who played more than 400 minutes. An offensive quality index (Index normalized to 94 minutes) was developed, integrating the following metrics equally:
- Expected Goals (xG): The probability of a shot resulting in a goal based on its quality.
- Expected Assists (xA): The likelihood that a pass will lead to a goal.
- Expected Threat: The increase in scoring probability following an offensive action.
- Post-shot Expected Goals: Evaluation of shot quality after it has been taken.
- xGOT (Expected Goals on Target): Adjusted xG, considering only shots on target.
Metrics were normalized to account for minutes played and analyzed by position and by team quartiles (based on final league standings).
Key Findings: What the Data Tells Us
- Offensive quality translates into collective success
Teams in the top quartile (Q1) of the final league standings consistently feature players with the highest Index values. This trend is evident across all positions, highlighting the direct relationship between offensive ability and team success. - The importance of player position
Offensive metrics vary significantly by position:- Forwards and attacking midfielders lead in danger creation metrics.
- Midfielders and full-backs show intermediate values, while center-backs have the lowest scores.
This emphasizes the need to prioritize offensive positions when building a competitive squad.
- Team context impacts individual performance
Players from Q1 teams demonstrate significantly better offensive performance compared to those in lower quartiles. Conversely, Q4 teams consistently underperform across all positions. This highlights the influence of collective performance on individual metrics. - Uncovering hidden talent
Normalizing metrics by minutes played allows the identification of players with high relative offensive quality despite limited playing time. These players may represent underutilized talent with the potential to deliver greater impact if given more opportunities.
Practical Applications for Directors of Football
- Prioritize offensive impact in squad planning
The most successful teams rely on players who can consistently generate danger in attack. Investing in key offensive positions like forwards and creative midfielders should be a priority. - Identify market opportunities
Players with high Index values but limited playing time may be strategic signings, especially for teams aiming to boost their offensive output efficiently. - Evaluate team context
Offensive quality is not just an individual attribute: players perform better in a cohesive collective environment. Building balanced squads with complementary skill sets is crucial. - Optimize competitive strategies
Teams with less offensive power (lower quartiles) can compete more effectively by maximizing efficiency in attack. Incorporating high-impact offensive players can help level the playing field against stronger opponents.
Conclusion
This study confirms that offensive quality is a decisive factor in team success. By understanding how to measure, identify, and enhance it, Directors of Football can make more informed decisions to build competitive squads and optimize on-field performance.