Criteria for the selection and development of academy soccer goalkeepers: Experts opinion

Objective The main aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive view of effective strategies, offering the soccer community informed tools that will optimize the process of developing the next generation of goalkeepers through the experiences and perspectives of experienced goalkeeper coaches. Method The opinion of 14 professional goalkeeper coaches was gathered using a semi-structured interview. Following transcription, a thematic content analysis was conducted to identify and analyse patterns within the data. Results From all the data obtained authors structured the results in the following sections: most important attributes for the goalkeeper, talent identification, specific goalkeeper training, individualisation, conditioning training, psychology, periodisation and evolution of the goalkeeper position. Conclusions There is no single way to develop goalkeepers, however, certain patterns can be observed in both selection and training processes. 1) Identify promising young players with strong anthropometric, coordination and emotional profiles, 2) Coach must structure the learning process by periodising the acquisition of various techniques and situational awareness based on the demands of the competition, 3) Continuously adapt to the individual development of each player.