Physical Performance Differences Between Starter and Non-Starter Players During Professional Soccer Friendly Matches

The aim of this study was to investigate the physical performance differences between players that started (i.e. starters, ≥65 minutes played) and those that were substituted into (i.e. non‐starter) soccer friendly matches. Fourteen professional players (age: 23.2 ± 2.7 years, body height: 178 ± 6 cm, body mass: 73.2 ± 6.9 kg) took part in this study. Twenty, physical performance‐related match variables (e.g. distance covered at different intensities, accelerations and decelerations, player load, maximal running speed, exertion index, work‐to‐rest ratio and rating of perceived exertion) were collected during two matches. Results were analysed using effect sizes (ES) and magnitude based inferences. Compared to starters, non‐starters covered greater match distance within the following intensity categories: >3.3≤4.2m/s (very likely), >4.2≤5 m/s (likely) and >5≤6.9 m/s (likely). In contrast, similar match average acceleration and deceleration values were identified for starters and non‐starters (trivial). Indicators of workloads including player loads (very likely), the exertion index (very likely), and the work–to‐rest ratio (very likely) were greater, while self‐reported ratings of perceived exertion were lower (likely) for non‐starters compared to starters. The current study demonstrates that substantial physical performance differences during friendly soccer matches exist between starters and non‐starters. Identification of these differences enables coaches and analysts to potentially prescribe optimal training loads and microcycles based upon player’s match starting status.