Verbal Feedback Is the Primary Mechanism for Performance-Related Review in Professional English Male Soccer: A Quantitative Exploration

Purpose: Feedback is information that is provided to aid reflection and learning and enhance future performances. Due to the increased demands of professional soccer and governance around staffing structures, the number of stakeholders delivering and receiving feedback has grown over the past 2 decades. The aim of the present study was to explore the feedback strategies used in professional men’s soccer in England. Methods: One hundred thirty-nine respondents comprising coaches (n = 34), players (n = 39), and performance staff (n = 66) from the English Premier League and football leagues completed an online survey. The survey included 19 questions on giving and receiving feedback. Results: Daily verbal interactions such as conversations and informal chats were the primary source of feedback and were highly prevalent between the 3 groups (59%–80%). Feedback was delivered frequently (daily/weekly) by all stakeholders at regular time points (before, during, and after training and matches), with >75% of coaches reporting giving feedback at all time points. Two-way feedback was also prevalent, with >76% of participants delivering or receiving feedback 2 ways. Conclusions: The data highlighted the importance of verbal communication within the process of optimizing professional soccer players’ development and performance. Professional soccer clubs should focus on interpersonal and intrapersonal skill development and an approach that facilitates positive interactions between staff and players within the optimal environment (ie, time and space). We recommend further exploration of stakeholders’ perceptions and effectiveness of feedback in influencing decision making and informing behavior change.