Joao Rivero is the head of performance at Sporting Clube de Braga, a Portuguese club that regularly competes in European competitions and remains at the top of the league. He provides a practical and structured perspective on performance in professional football, from load management to injury prevention.
Hugo Correia is the Rehabilitation Manager at the Olympique de Marseille Youth Academy. With direct experience in both the developmental and clinical fields, he serves as the moderator of the episode, offering insights into the role of performance in high-demand contexts.
Evolution of the role of head of performance in football
One of the key points of the debate was the evolution of the role of the head of performance in football. In recent years, clubs have recognized the need for a more integrated approach to managing player performance, which has led to the emergence of this new position.
This role involves not only supervising physical preparation but also integrating various areas such as nutrition, sports medicine, and recovery. The head of performance has become essential to ensure that players reach their full potential, using advanced technologies and data to improve their performance and prevent injuries.
Main responsibilities of the head of performance
The responsibilities of the head of performance can vary depending on the structure and resources available at each club. In some cases, this role oversees several departments such as nutrition, medical staff, and others, while in other clubs, the focus is solely on the performance area. Select 47 more words to run Humanizer.
Some of the key responsibilities include assessing the player’s physical condition, injury prevention, monitoring performance through various technologies, and implementing recovery strategies. Additionally, the head of performance must manage return-to-play protocols after an injury, ensuring proper recovery and monitoring players’ progress.
Interdepartmental collaboration
It is essential to have close cooperation between different departments within the club, such as nutrition, sports medicine, and rehabilitation. This collaboration ensures a holistic approach to player care, addressing both their physical performance and recovery.
By working together, injury prevention is optimized, and effective rehabilitation processes are ensured, providing comprehensive care that benefits the health and overall well-being of the players.
The balance between supervision and hands-on work on the field
Role flexibility: The head of performance combines supervision and hands-on work, adapting to the club’s context and resources.
Active participation: Collaborating in training sessions and recovery, especially with injured players or those with special needs.
Adaptation according to the club: The balance varies depending on the size and structure of the club, with a more supervisory or hands-on approach depending on the case.
The role of the head of performance is not limited to supervising player performance; it also involves active participation in training and recovery sessions. However, this balance between supervision and hands-on work varies depending on the club’s context, team structure, and available resources.
Use of data and technology to improve performance
The use of technology and data analysis is key to the role of the head of performance. Player performance is monitored through various technologies, such as GPS metrics, which help assess whether a player has exceeded their typical workload or is at risk of injury. This data also allows for the evaluation of fatigue levels and precise adjustments to training.
Although the head of performance does not directly analyze the data, it is essential for them to have a deep understanding of the tools and metrics used, such as variables related to total distance, high-speed runs, and accelerations. This understanding allows for informed decisions that optimize player performance and assist in planning their workload.
Focus on injury prevention and rehabilitation
Injury prevention: Strategies are implemented to reduce risks during training and matches, monitoring players’ workload and detecting early signs of fatigue or overload.
Rehabilitation management: It is essential to ensure that players follow the proper recovery protocols, closely monitoring their rehabilitation process.
Training load adjustment: During players’ return to activity, training loads are adjusted to prevent setbacks and ensure a safe reintegration into the team.
The ideal profile of the head of performance
The role requires a deep understanding of human physiology, the ability to handle performance data, and make decisions based on it. It is essential to have skills in delegating and coordinating with other departments, knowing when to intervene directly on the field.
To learn more about the skills required for this profile, watch the full FSI Talks #16. Don’t miss it!
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