High performance sport’s unpredictable nature is what makes it attractive. The football world is no stranger to this randomising factor, which makes of football a thrilling game with the capability of amassing crowds from a variety of backgrounds. However, the analysis of data as well as the new tools technology is providing can contribute to the diminishment of risks and provide support towards decision making.

Big data consists of the process of capturing, storing, managing and analysing data by means of powerful computer technologies as well as cutting edge analytical techniques. The analysis of massive inputs of data brings us closer to discovering real life patterns and behaviours with a higher precision and accuracy than ever before. This data revolution is changing the way we think, work and live. Its usage is now implemented in all aspects of life. The vast amount of data we generate in a daily basis such as when we shop, talk on the phone or surf through the internet, allows the analysis of people’s habits and behaviours.

In professional football, this technology is implemented in the study of individual as well as collective player’s performance, which provides support in, for example, decision making in transfer markets or the team strategy prior to a match. Data is collected with cameras, GPS sensors and other technological devices from every player’s actions during a football game (passes, recoveries, duels, dribbles, assists…). This valuable information, combined with the exact XY position coordinates collected during the regulatory game time, make possible the in-depth game analysis from a more objective and precise perspective.