Miguel Gouveia Profile Photo

Miguel Gouveia

MSc in Industrial Management and Engineering | Business Developer @ ScoutDecision | Researcher on Decision Support Models in Football | Football Fanatic 100% Verified


Ballon d'Or

- Oct. 29, 2024

Ballon d'Or 2024: A Ceremony of Surprises

This year’s Ballon d'Or sparked more debate than usual, with Rodri taking home the coveted prize over favorites like Vinicius Jr. While fans often disagree on who should win, 2024’s result raised new questions around the selection criteria, player roles, fair play, and even some behind-the-scenes drama. Let's dive into the major talking points: 1. The Criteria and Scoring System The Ballon d'Or’s decision-making process is based on three key criteria: individual performance and character, team achievements, and sportsmanship. Rodri’s win clearly aligns with these priorities; his role in Manchester City’s treble season underscored his importance to one of the most dominant teams in recent football history. On the other hand, Vinicius Jr. brought excitement and creativity, leading Real Madrid's frontline with notable flair. The debate here: which is more valuable—consistent brilliance or game-changing talent? 2. Fan-Favorite vs. Jury Choice For weeks, media speculation pointed to Vinicius Jr. as a likely winner, amplifying fan disappointment when Rodri’s name was called. The Ballon d'Or jury, comprised of journalists from the top 100 FIFA-ranked countries, chose a steady performer over an electrifying crowd-puller. Vinicius Jr.’s supporters argue that his direct, aggressive style has more “wow factor” than Rodri’s disciplined midfield play. However, the jury’s decision suggests a preference for steady excellence over highlight-reel moments. 3. Fair Play: Should it Matter? One of the more divisive topics is whether player conduct should factor into the award. Rodri is known for his calm and disciplined style, while Vinicius Jr. has, at times, faced criticism for confrontations on the field. While this may seem minor, it reflects a broader question: does a player’s behavior impact their legacy, and should it influence awards? This discussion could shape the values that top honors like the Ballon d'Or prioritize in years to come. 4. The Rise of the Midfielder: A Shift in the Award's Focus? Historically, forwards dominate the Ballon d'Or, celebrated for goals and assists. Rodri’s win, however, could signal a shift in how the football community values other roles, especially the workhorse midfielders who set the tempo and shape play from deeper positions. In his acceptance speech, Rodri even paid homage to past overlooked midfield maestros like Iniesta, Xavi and Busquets. Could this represent a new appreciation for the “invisible” work that underpins every successful team? 5. Real Madrid’s Absence Perhaps one of the evening’s biggest surprises was Real Madrid’s absence from the ceremony, an unusual move for a club awarded “Club of the Year.” Some speculate this was due to their discontent over the award results, while others see it as a larger statement on how these awards are managed. Whatever the reason, it has added an intriguing layer to this year’s event, leading fans to wonder what politics might lie beneath these public ceremonies. Rodri’s win opens up an important dialogue about what we value in players today. Does the Ballon d'Or need to shift towards rewarding more visibly exciting players, or does Rodri’s win signal a deeper appreciation for those who work quietly in pivotal roles?

Oct. 29, 2024

Partnerships

- Oct. 15, 2024

ScoutDecision links up with Improve Sports

ScoutDecision is excited to announce a new partnership with Improve Sports, a leading name in football education and professional training. Based in Portugal, Improve Sports offers a range of high-quality courses designed for both new and experienced professionals in scouting, analysis, and sports management. Their mission is to enhance football knowledge and skills through practical, experience-based learning. With this partnership, ScoutDecision and Improve Sports will collaborate on delivering expert-led courses that focus on developing essential skills for football professionals. These courses will cover vital topics such as scouting methods, data analysis, and how to manage sports teams effectively. This will be an opportunity for both young talents and seasoned professionals to sharpen their football intelligence, equipping them with the knowledge needed to operate in this industry. Improve Sports has built a reputation for excellence in the world of football education. Their courses are developed by professionals who have real-world experience, which ensures that participants gain insights that go beyond theory. With this partnership, ScoutDecision is happy to support the continuous growth of football professionals through education and training. We look forward to working together with Improve Sports in providing top-tier learning experiences for those seeking to excel in the world of football. You can follow their work and stay updated on their progress by visiting their Instagram.

Oct. 15, 2024

Club World Cup 2025

- Oct. 10, 2024

Club World Cup 2025: A New Format that’s Upsetting Europe’s Richest Leagues

Next summer’s Club World Cup will be the biggest in history. FIFA is making significant changes to the tournament, which means more teams and more competition. But not everyone is happy, especially in Europe. For the first time, 32 teams will compete in the Club World Cup in a format that mirrors the FIFA World Cup for national teams. That’s a big shift from the previous structure, which involved just seven clubs. However, the decision to limit Europe to only two guaranteed spots has caused friction, particularly among the richest leagues. Why Are the European Leagues Upset? Under the new rules, only two European clubs will be guaranteed a place in the Club World Cup. For leagues like the Premier League and La Liga, this doesn’t sit well. These leagues argue that Europe consistently produces the top-performing clubs globally, so limiting their presence in a global competition doesn’t seem fair. After all, European teams have dominated the tournament for years, with Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich frequently lifting the trophy. The frustration is clear: Europe feels like it should have more representation, considering its influence on global football. Some of the biggest clubs in the world are European, and they’re used to being at the center of the most important competitions. For them, reducing Europe’s footprint feels like a step backward, not forward. FIFA’s Global Vision FIFA’s goal is to make the Club World Cup more global, and that means giving opportunities to teams from other continents. The governing body wants to create a more balanced competition that isn’t dominated by one region. It’s a decision based on promoting football’s growth worldwide. For teams from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, this is a great opportunity. The chance to play against the best European teams and prove themselves on a global stage is massive. It opens the door for more investment and exposure in regions where football is growing fast. What Does This Mean for Clubs? For clubs outside of Europe, this change is exciting. The Club World Cup could become a major highlight of their season. Teams will now have more incentive to perform well in their continental competitions, knowing that the reward could be a spot in one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world. For European clubs, the pressure is on. With fewer guaranteed spots, there will be fierce competition just to qualify. Teams that normally wouldn’t worry about making the cut will now have to fight harder to secure their place. This could add an extra layer of intensity to domestic leagues. What to Watch for Next Summer The new format is going to be exciting for fans. A larger tournament with more variety in teams is always fun to watch. But it’s also going to be interesting to see how the richest European leagues handle this new challenge. Will they push for more representation in future tournaments? Or will they have to adapt to a new reality where they’re no longer the dominant force? What’s clear is that the Club World Cup 2025 will be one to remember. The stakes are higher, the teams are more diverse, and the whole world will be watching. Let’s see how it plays out.

Oct. 10, 2024

Partnerships

- Sept. 5, 2024

ScoutDecision Joins European Commission’s Erasmus 2027 Program with DAFNE Project

At ScoutDecision, we are excited to announce a major milestone: our participation in the European Commission's Erasmus 2027 program. We’ve been selected as a key partner in the innovative DAFNE project, which stands for "Data Analysis and Dual Career: New Paths for Football Athletes." This project represents a significant step forward in addressing the dual career challenges faced by football athletes, particularly those who are less advantaged. As the demand for data analysis in football continues to grow, DAFNE aims to empower athletes by equipping them with crucial skills that extend beyond the pitch and open up valuable career opportunities. The Growing Challenge of Dual Careers in Football Dual careers - where athletes must balance their athletic pursuits with academic or professional development - are increasingly becoming a crucial issue in the world of sports. Athletes, especially those at lower levels, often face uncertainty about their futures once their sporting careers come to an end. The transition from professional sports to a new career path can be challenging, leaving many athletes without the necessary skills to succeed off the pitch. This issue is particularly relevant in football, where the careers of players are often short and subject to unpredictability. While top-level players may secure lucrative contracts, the majority of footballers will face a career that ends in their 30s, with many lacking the skills and qualifications necessary to smoothly transition into a new profession. In fact, studies show that athletes who do not prepare for life after sports can face higher levels of anxiety, depression, and financial instability. The DAFNE Project: A Solution for a Pressing Problem The DAFNE project aims to tackle these challenges head-on by focusing on the development of data analysis skills - an area that is rapidly gaining importance in modern football. Data Analysts are increasingly in demand within the sports industry, particularly in football, where data-driven decisions play a critical role in performance enhancement, strategy development, and player recruitment. The objectives of the DAFNE project are clear: Improving Athletes' Skills: DAFNE aims to provide football players with the necessary skills to analyze performance data related to football matches. These skills will equip athletes with expertise that is highly valuable in the current labor market, offering them a concrete career path after their playing days are over. Optimizing Time Management and Planning: The project seeks to find the best models for time management and planning in the life of a football player. This includes helping athletes balance their sports commitments with their education or other professional pursuits, making it easier for them to manage a dual career effectively. Piloting a Hybrid Educational Methodology: DAFNE will test a hybrid educational approach, combining non-formal education (NFE) modules with a digital in-game simulator. This innovative method will enhance learning outcomes by providing realistic, hands-on experience in data analysis, giving athletes the tools to better understand and manage performance data. Our Role in the DAFNE Project ScoutDecision is honored to play a vital role in this project, alongside a prestigious consortium of partners that includes: Federația Română de Fotbal (Romanian Football Federation) Hypex NGO Nest Berlin NK Interblock Ljubljana Universidad de Murcia Associação de Futebol de Bragança (AFB) Our expertise in data-driven football solutions will be instrumental in developing training modules and tools that athletes can use to build careers as Data Performance Analysts. ScoutDecision will also contribute to the creation of an e-learning platform and an in-game simulator, both of which are designed to provide football players with practical experience and knowledge in data analysis. Delivering Key Outcomes for Football and Society The DAFNE project is designed to deliver several key outcomes that will have a lasting impact on football athletes and the broader sports community. These include: A Handbook containing a curriculum on the technical skills and requirements needed for the Data Performance Analyst role, along with insights into the labor market for this profession. A Recommendation Report for sports institutions, offering models and tools to support athletes in managing dual careers effectively. An E-Learning Platform that will offer a MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) to help athletes learn the fundamentals of data analysis and performance evaluation. An In-Game Simulator that will provide realistic scenarios for athletes to practice data analysis and extract meaningful insights from match data. These outcomes will contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive environment for football players, ensuring that they are better equipped to navigate the complexities of dual careers and transition smoothly into new professions. Looking Ahead We hope that through the DAFNE project, we can make a significant impact on this major issue in football player careers by combining innovative technology and targeted education. By helping athletes develop valuable skills in data analysis, we aim to support their successful dual careers both on and off the pitch. This project aligns perfectly with our mission at ScoutDecision: to provide data-driven solutions that enhance the careers of football professionals, whether on the field or beyond. We are excited about the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful initiative and look forward to the positive outcomes that DAFNE will bring to the football community. If you'd like to learn more about the DAFNE project or how ScoutDecision can help support dual careers in football, please feel free to reach out to us.

Sept. 5, 2024

Football CV

- June 6, 2024

How to Make a Personal Website for Football

Everyone should have a CV. Whether to apply to a new job, to be represented by a new agent, or to be recommended for a service, you need a summary of who you are and the value you bring. However, most CVs are not good enough. They often lack super valuable information or are way too disorganized and have outdated designs. So, how can a CV stand out from the dozens of others received every week? You should transform it in a PERSONAL WEBSITE 💡 Why? It will create much more impact on the employer while you can be more complete in your description and even include different types of information that improve the quality of your resume. It will add credibility and does not get lost in the computer folders of someone else. How should your website be? 1) It should have a General Summary at the top. Insert your name, photo, contact details, external profile links, and a brief description of who you are today and how you got here. 2) Include a Gallery where you can start to engage the reader with a couple of images from the places where you worked and the milestones achieved. 3) State your Working Experience. Name the organizations you were part of or the projects you created. Be sure to specify the dates, positions, and a quick overview of your responsibilities. 4) Education Background. Specify the studies, courses, and certifications you have. This will allow the reader to understand how capable and invested you are in the given domains. 5) Make sure to have a list of relevant Achievements. Don't force anything, it's normal if you don't have big achievements at the start of your career. 6) Style of Work/Play and Methodology This will allow the reader to understand what's your working style or playing methodology. Feel free to attach a video that better demonstrates the principles you rule yourself by. 7) Recommendations. What's better than having other people talk about us? Employers give a lot of importance to this. Be sure to add this to your website and ask for feedback from your past colleagues or bosses. 8) Links. For every aspect you find relevant. Interviews, events, news, highlights. Anything that adds value to your page. Coaches, Scouts, Directors, and Players can all take advantage of having their own page. The digital era is already here, so why not enjoy the best part of it? If you’re curious enough to see how your website would look, contact us for more details 📥 Within 1 week, we can create one just for you.

June 6, 2024

Scouting Software

- May 23, 2024

Why Wyscout is Not Enough for Scouting

Wyscout is such a valuable tool. With just a few clicks, you watch all the corners taken from a guy in Uruguay or compare the passing accuracy of all the midfielders in the J2 League. That’s why it is so popular: information, information, information… However, relying only on Wyscout is not enough for most. How can you differentiate from the thousands of people who watch the same videos and stats? How can you make the most of the gigantic piles of information you have access to? Here are 5 reasons why you should complement Wyscout with additional tools: 1. You need Flexibility Wyscout has an impressive database, but it lacks the flexibility to add new players or edit details of existing ones. When scouting, you’ll discover more details that can be crucial to include on your final assessments, so why not join both? 2. Make your own Evaluation You’re a scout, you’re great at evaluating players. Statistics are good to support your insights, but the most important assessment comes from your own skills and experience. Why not use your expertise and combine it with some relevant metrics from Wyscout and then present them to someone else in a visually appealing report created by you? 3. Don't change your Working Style We all like to do things our way. We feel more productive and less stressed. You have many buttons and features in Wyscout but it can get really tough to adapt them to your working style. Unfortunately, Wysccout is not going to change anything just for you. However, there are other platforms that want to listen to your needs and adapt their features so that you have all the details you need in a fully customized experience. 4. Organize Yourself Scouting is more than just looking at players. Scheduling the games you want to see, assigning tasks to complete, comparing all the reports you’ve completed, and managing video, documents and negotiation details are all crucial. Wyscout alone does not support these operational needs. You need something else so you don’t feel lost with the information spread between your notes, Excel, or Drive. 5. Use every detail to Decide Better What happens if you want to add data from elsewhere to your evaluations? Wyscout does not support integration with other data sources you might want to use, nor does it provide an overall player classification based on YOUR preferences. If you want player rankings based on the attributes you find most important, you should have something else at your hand. Conclusion While Wyscout is something you should have, the demands of modern scouting require additional tools for optimal performance. A comprehensive scouting information system not only complements Wyscout but also addresses its limitations. Having the video and the stats while keeping yourself organized with your own tailored tools will make you unstoppable. If you’d like to try out a platform that perfectly complements what Wyscout doesn't give you, check it out here.

May 23, 2024

Scouting

- April 12, 2024

Elevating the Game: ScoutDecision and L10 Sports Consulting Join Forces

We are thrilled to announce an exciting partnership between ScoutDecision and the esteemed L10 Sports Consulting! This strategic alliance marks the beginning of a powerful collaboration, aiming to further enhance the landscape of sports scouting and market analysis. L10 Sports Consulting, a leading company in Brazil providing educational services and mentorship for analysts and scouts, is now teaming up with ScoutDecision to enrich its educational offerings. With L10's expertise and ScoutDecision's advanced technology, L10's courses will be complemented with privileged access to our analysis software. This partnership goes beyond just providing tools; it is an active collaboration in defining new features for our platform. We firmly believe that L10's experience and knowledge will add significant value to the ongoing development of ScoutDecision, ensuring our users have access to the best practices and innovations in the industry. Furthermore, we are excited to announce that L10 students will be entitled to an exclusive discount on the ScoutDecision platform. We aim to make access to our technology even more accessible for those investing in their careers in the world of sports observation and analysis. We would like to express our gratitude to L10's CEO, Rodrigo Lameira, for his vision and leadership in this joint endeavor. Together, we are committed to elevating the game, empowering professionals and teams to reach their full potential on the global sports stage.

April 12, 2024

National Teams

- March 28, 2024

The Importance of International Breaks

Football fans tend to hate International breaks 👎 2 weeks without Club football can seem unbearable in the middle of the season... However, you shouldn't deny their importance (here's why 👇) 🏆 International Competitions Friendlies may seem a waste of time, but they are just the preparation for the most vibrant sports competitions in the world. The FIFA World Cup, or even the UEFA EURO and CONMEBOL Copa America, unite nations in a way we all love to witness. ⚽ Player Development Playing alongside new teammates, coaches and tactics help players adapt to new game structures that clubs can later take advantage of. New ideas for free. 📈 Market Opportunities For clubs, which see their players confirm their value in a different setting with broader coverage. For players, whose exposure can lead to endorsements and sponsorship deals. 💪 Mental Boost Many of them seek a spot to play in the biggest competitions. It's a source of motivation, driving the players to improve their performance and morale when returning to club competitions. 🌟 Star Status Tell me one football superstar who didn't perform with his national team. It's their chance to prove their quality and confirm their elite level. It's the highest dream of many when growing up. Despite disrupting club football temporarily, international breaks play a crucial role in player development and global football dynamics. Being able to witness the emergence of talents like Lamine Yamal and Endrick make it a lot easier for us, football fans... (but now please bring 'El Clasico' asap 🙏)

March 28, 2024

EFL Championship

- March 6, 2024

Who is going to return to the World's Best League next season?

10 games remaining. 10 games that separate the teams from their dreams to play against the most powerful teams, in the most profitable competition and with the biggest fan base watching. But more than being the ultimate step before The Premier League, the EFL Championship is a truly competitive context in itself. 🏟️ 5th Best Attendance (above Ligue 1) 🏆 6th Best Average Team Quality (according to Opta Sports, 22/23) How do things stand? 🦊 Leicester City: once champions-elect, now facing a test of character. With 26 victories under their belt, they stand atop the table. 1st | 81 Points | 36 Games | 72.2% Wins 🚜 Ipswich Town: a team defying expectations and rewriting the narrative. Newly promoted from League One, they weathered a stormy patch but emerged stronger, with six consecutive wins. 2nd | 78 Points | 36 Games | 63.9% Wins ⚪️ Leeds United: steeped in tradition and fueled by ambition, their unbeaten run faced a moment of reckoning against Huddersfield. Yet, with grit and determination, they roared back to victory against Stoke. 3rd | 76 Points | 36 Games | 63.9% Wins 👼 Southampton: embarked on a journey marked by twists and turns, overcoming setbacks to forge a path toward redemption and still remembering the 20th spot last year. They are the only team that has to face all the other candidates. 4th | 70 Points | 35 Games (-1) | 60.0% Wins The stakes have never been higher 🔥 Which team do you think will emerge to claim their place among football's elite? Despite the winners, one thing is certain: the heart-pounding drama and pursuit of excellence in the Championship resemble the essence of football we all learned to love ⚽ #Championship #EFL #Football

March 6, 2024
Miguel Gouveia Profile Photo
Miguel Gouveia

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MSc in Industrial Management and Engineering | Business Developer @ ScoutDecision | Researcher on Decision Support Models in Football | Football Fanatic 100% Verified

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