Variation in Match Physical Performance in Turkish Super League Soccer Players by Position Across Four Seasons

Abstract

This study examined variations in match physical performances of Turkish Super League soccer players over four consecutive seasons, considering playing position. Data were derived from 1224 different match indices for 17997 observations of 25 different teams. These data were collected over the four seasons from 2015–16 to 2018–19 utilizing a multi-camera computerized tracking system. Playing positions were categorized as follows: central defender (CD), external defender (ED), central midfielder (CM), external midfielder (EM), and forward (FWR). The data analysed covered total distance, as well as distances covered in the following conditions: high-speed running (HSR, 20-23.9 km.h-1), sprinting (> 24 km.h-1), high metabolic power (HMP; from 20 to 35 W·kg1), elevated metabolic power (EMP; from 35 to 55 W·kg-1), and maximal metabolic power (MMP; > 55 W·kg-1). Players in the CM position were found to cover a significantly greater total distance, as well as significantly greater HMP and EMP distances than all other positions. In contrast, those in EM and ED positions engaged in significantly greater high-speed running and sprint distance than all other positions (p<0.05). Decreases were found in the distances covered in the different running speed zones and metabolic power zones for all positions over the seasons from 2015–16 to 2018–19. These findings show that the positional roles of the players entail different physical demands. Therefore, it is recommended that coaches consider the physical demands of the positions and seasonal variation when creating training programs for players.