Effect of COVID-19 on Key Performance Indicators of Spanish Professional Soccer League

Author:

Fernández-Cortés José1ORCID,Gómez-Carmona Carlos D.1ORCID,Mancha-Triguero David2ORCID,García-Rubio Javier1ORCID,Ibáñez Sergio J.1ORCID

Affiliation:

1. Training Optimization and Sports Performance Research Group (GOERD), Sport Science Faculty, University of Extremadura, 10003 Caceres, Extremadura, Spain

2. Physical Education and Sports Department, Cardenal Spínola CEU Andalucía University, 41930 Bormujos, Sevilla, Spain

Abstract

The unprecedented COVID-19 health crisis severely disrupted global sports in 2020, prompting lengthy suspensions followed by resumed competitions under abnormal behind-closed-doors conditions without fans. These disruptions necessitated tactical adaptations by coaches and teams, attempting to still achieve successful outcomes. This study investigates the pandemic’s impacts on performance metrics and indicators within Spanish professional soccer. Utilizing systematic notational analysis, 760 match cases from the 2019–2020 La Liga season were examined, comprising 27 matchdays from the pre-COVID context and 11 after resumption. Multivariate tests identified significant pre/post differences and interactions for various technical indicators including shots, cards, corners, and offside calls. The pandemic was associated with a reduction from 12 to just 5 identifiable playing styles, suggestive of increased conservatism featuring more passive play, limited attacking depth, and horizontal ball movement. Such tactical changes appear provoked by condensed fixture scheduling post-lockdown, the lack of supportive crowds, and compromised player fitness/recovery. By quantifying these COVID-precipitated changes, the analysis provides tangible evidence for coaches to make informed adjustments in training and preparation for functioning effectively in disrupted environments. The findings emphasize that versatility and flexibility will be vital to optimize performance during times of unprecedented uncertainty.

Funder

Regional Government of Extremadura

European Union’s European Funds for Regional Development

Publisher

MDPI AG

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