The technology improving elite football players worldwide
Modern football is becoming faster and more intense than ever. Stars like Martin Ødegaard and Aurélien Tchouaméni use virtual reality glasses to improve their scanning of the pitch. Studies show that decision-making in the seconds before receiving the ball is key to success. Alongside the enthusiasm, there are skeptical voices claiming that the real game is the best teacher.
The article reviews the growing use of virtual reality (VR) technology for training elite football players, focusing on the company 'Be Your Best'. Stars Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal) and Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid) use the system to improve their scanning – quick glances to the sides to gather information before receiving the ball. Research by Norwegian professor Geir Jordet emphasizes that the ten seconds before receiving the ball are critical for decision-making, and that Xavi Hernández was the top scanner in his studies. Ødegaard requested adding a setting of 120% of normal game speed. Other players like Romeo Lavia and Marc Guéhi also use the technology. Tchouaméni uses it to adapt to the center-back role. On the other hand, former youth coach Dan Micciche expresses skepticism, arguing that the real game is the best teacher. However, in a training program for young German national teams, scanning rate improved by 28% and coaches reported better positioning for 80% of players. The article concludes that in the modern era, the fastest players are those who think faster.