Introduction to Football Scouting and Analytics

Module 1: What Is a Football Scout?

Learning Objectives • Define the role of a football scout across different levels • Understand the six core responsibilities of a scout • Differentiate between KPI (Key Performance Indicator) and KAI (Key Attribute Indicator) • Reflect on how scouting protects a club’s identity and long-term vision 1.0 Introduction A football scout is not just a talent spotter — they are strategic analysts, storytellers, and protectors of a club’s playing philosophy. Scouts attend matches or analyse footage to observe performance, behaviour, and potential. Their reports influence signings, team structure, and future squad development. They are the face of the club in many situations, Scouts act as the first port of call for players, parents, and coaches to approach and engage with clubs. Did you know? Many scouts have different roles within club structures, they double down as coaches, managers, and analysts. 2.0 Core Responsibilities 2.1 Identify Talent Use or create a KPI and KAI in line with club's philosophy Speed (physical speed, decision speed, ball speed) Physical (Tall, strong, pacey) Personality (Leader, aggressive, intelligent) Insight (Awareness, game understanding, positional) Technical (Touch, control, passing) Tactical (Understanding, adaptive, dual-role) Skill (Application of the technique) Example: S.P.P.I.T.T.S, the first four are elements that are hard to adjust or change, and the final three are elements that we can improve on quickly 2.2 Match Observation Understand the context of performance (age-specific): What system is being played? Is the coach giving all the instructions? Does the player understand the basic functionality of the role? What characters do you see in the game (leadership or aggressor) Tip: Don’t just watch the ball. Observe patterns, team shape, and off-ball work. 2.3 Data Collection How to collect data and match with KPI’s Quantitative: touches, sprints, duels won Qualitative: work rate, communication, leadership Combine both for a well-rounded evaluation Use the KPI/KAI template in your starter kit to help. 2.4 Report Writing • Turn observations into clear, structured insight • Use this format: 1. Player info + match context 2. Strengths 3. Areas for development 4. Tactical fit or projection 5. Video clips or stats if available Exercise: Watch a 1-minute clip and write a 3-sentence micro-report. 2.5 Database Management • Store data securely (Excel, Scout7, InStat) • Organise players by position, potential, and level • Tag reports with notes (trialed, followed-up, signed) • Maintain video clips or PDF reports for reference APSO Tip: Consistency matters more than complexity. 2.6 Brand Protection • Every club has a “DNA” — some prioritise possession, others athleticism • A scout helps protect that identity by recommending players who align • Also responsible for spotting red flags (e.g., poor discipline, bad attitude) Your role is gatekeeping the culture, not just the performance. 3.0 Knowledge Check (Short Reflection) 1. Which of the 6 responsibilities do you feel most confident about? 2. Which one would you like to improve, and how? 4.0 Downloadable Tools ✅ APSO KPI/KAI Template ✅ Report Writing Mini Guide ✅ Scouting Cheat Sheet