How to Enhance Analysis as a Video Scout
Today, I'd like to share the tools I use to enhance my analyses in the role of "Video Scout." As a freelance professional providing services to a club in the Netherlands, it's important to note that the highlighted tools may not be suitable for everyone or other clubs. The goal of this post is to provide insights for those taking their first steps in this field. There are various tools available, and the idea is not only to assist beginners but also to encourage those already using a specific tool to explore new possibilities or try something different.
1. Communication Tools
Let's start by talking about communication tools because efficient communication is essential for receiving requests and maintaining effective communication.
Tools Used by Clubs:
- Slack / Teams / Google Chat
These platforms are widely adopted by clubs due to their efficiency in internal communication. Slack, for example, provides specific channels for different areas, making discussions organized. Teams and Google Chat are equally robust, integrating with other collaborative tools. The choice of these platforms by clubs aims to centralize information, ensuring agile and transparent communication among team members.
Tools Used by Freelancers:
- WhatsApp / Telegram / Email
For freelancers like me, the versatility of these tools is crucial. WhatsApp and Telegram enable instant communication, speeding up the exchange of information and feedback. Additionally, many clients prefer these messaging platforms for more direct communication. Meanwhile, email remains a vital tool for formalizing proposals, sharing detailed reports, and maintaining more formalized communication.
2. Database
The database is where I gather information about the players in question. Here are some common databases that are part of my arsenal:
For Clubs:
- Wyscout / Eyeball / Pro Soccer Data
These platforms are fundamental for clubs due to their comprehensive and high-quality data. Wyscout, for example, offers a range of statistics, videos, and detailed player analyses. Eyeball and Pro Soccer Data also stand out for the accuracy of information, providing a comprehensive view that aids in strategic decision-making. The trust in these databases is essential for clubs seeking accurate and updated information about talents.
For Freelancers:
- Transfermarkt / O Gol / Football Manager Database
Freelancers, like me, find valuable data sources in these platforms. Transfermarkt provides a wide range of transfer and performance statistics, while O Gol offers detailed information about Brazilian football. The Football Manager database is appreciated for its detailed and realistic approach to player performance. I use these resources to complement my analysis and provide comprehensive insights to my clients.
Wildcard:
- ScoutDecision
ScoutDecision is a wildcard, used by both clubs and freelancers. It has been a crucial ally since my early days as a professional. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive data make the decision-making process faster and more efficient. If you haven't explored this tool yet, I recommend taking a look! Use the discount code "PENNA10." I promise you won't regret it.
3. Note-Taking
Now that the demand has been received and the player located, it's time to dive into the analyses. For this crucial step, I rely on several tools.
Digital Tools:
- Evernote, OneNote, and GoodNotes
Evernote is my choice for keeping organized and accessible notes anywhere. Its versatility allows the creation of specific notebooks for each player, facilitating cataloging and quick retrieval of important information. The ability to add images and links enriches the analysis process further. OneNote, with its efficient device integration, offers a seamless experience. The notebook and page structure is ideal for organizing detailed data on skills, statistics, and specific player observations. Its real-time synchronization capability makes sharing information with teammates agile and effective. For digital writing enthusiasts, GoodNotes is an excellent choice. With a natural paper and pen feel, this tool is ideal for detailed notes during performance analyses. The ability to add sketches and diagrams facilitates the visualization of tactical patterns and specific movements.
Embracing the Analog:
- Pen and Paper
Personally, I am a traditional method enthusiast. I use more than two notebooks per year, each dedicated to different analyses. The blue pen is reserved for general information, while the black pen allows me to make corrections and add additional information after the initial analysis. The tangible approach of pen and paper provides a unique connection with observations, allowing me to delve even deeper into the nuances of player performance.
4. Watching Games
Now that the workspace is ready, it's time to dive into the games. Let's explore the choices of video tools, considering the different needs of clubs and freelancers.
For Clubs:
- Wyscout / Eyeball / Veo
Wyscout is a top choice for clubs due to its extensive database and detailed analyses. With high-quality videos, it allows a thorough view of player performance, facilitating talent identification and tactical team improvement. Eyeball is preferred by clubs for its focused approach on specific videos, offering a more detailed view of matches. Its ability to highlight key moments and provide accurate analyses contributes to a deep understanding of the game. Veo has gained prominence among clubs due to its innovative approach with smart cameras. This technology allows automatic recording of matches and training, providing a complete field view and simplifying the tactical analysis process.
For Freelancers:
- YouTube / HBO, Paramount, Star+, Prime Video
Freelancers often turn to YouTube to access publicly available game videos. This broad and accessible platform offers a variety of matches, allowing the analysis of different playing styles and players—for free. For freelancers seeking access to specific leagues and competitions, streaming services like HBO, Paramount, Star+, and Prime Video offer live broadcasts and match replays. This variety of options provides extensive coverage, allowing freelancers to focus on specific analyses according to client demands.
5. Video Editing
Let's address the editing stage, which, while not mandatory, can significantly enhance your work. If you want to expand your skills and value as a professional, mastering one of these video editing platforms is an excellent choice.
- Adobe Premiere Pro / Final Cut Pro X / iMovie
Premiere Pro is a robust tool widely used by clubs due to its versatility and advanced features. Its intuitive interface allows precise video editing, making it easy to create highlights, detailed tactical analyses, and engaging visual presentations for the coaching staff. Final Cut Pro X, popular among Apple device users, stands out for efficiency and superior performance. Its seamless integration with other Apple products and the ability to work with high-resolution videos make it a preferred choice for clubs seeking professional quality. iMovie is an affordable and effective option for freelancers wanting to start in the world of video editing. With a user-friendly interface, basic edits, creating highlights, and presenting analyses clearly are possible. It's an excellent choice for those starting and wanting to acquire editing skills without investing in more advanced software.
6. Report Creation
Now we've reached the crucial stage of the process: writing the report. This moment requires not only writing skills but also a deep understanding of the game, the ability to communicate effectively, and a clinical eye that transcends the obvious. Remember, whether working for a club or as an independent freelancer, integrity and fidelity to observations are essential. Your name is associated with success or failure, and honesty is the foundation of a solid reputation.
For Clubs:
- Pro Soccer Data / Wyscout
Clubs often rely on specialized platforms like Pro Soccer Data and Wyscout for report writing. These tools offer a complete range of statistics, detailed tactical analyses, and performance videos, providing a solid foundation for comprehensive reports. The accuracy and richness of data from these platforms significantly contribute to strategic decision-making.
For Freelancers:
- PPT / Word / Pages
Freelancers often opt for more flexible tools like PowerPoint (PPT), Word, or Pages for report creation. These platforms offer creative freedom in presenting information, allowing the inclusion of graphics, images, and insights in a personalized manner.
Wildcard:
- ScoutDecision
Once again, ScoutDecision stands out as a versatile and powerful tool for both clubs and freelancers. Its ability to integrate data, statistics, and videos into a single platform streamlines the report creation process. The intuitive interface and flexibility of ScoutDecision make it an effective choice for those seeking efficiency and accuracy in their reports.
7. Delivery
We've reached the final stage of the process: delivering the reports. Choosing the right platform for this moment ensures a smooth and efficient transition from analysis to the hands of clients.
For Clubs:
- Pro Soccer Data / ScoutDecision
Clubs often prefer specialized platforms like Pro Soccer Data for report delivery. This choice is justified by its direct integration with other tools used in the analysis process, ensuring a cohesive and efficient experience. The dedicated tactical analysis interface makes data interpretation easier, providing more precise information delivery. Once again, ScoutDecision stands out as a choice for clubs. Its ability to integrate data, statistics, and videos into a single platform offers a comprehensive solution. The ease of sharing reports directly on the platform simplifies the process for technical teams, promoting more effective communication.
For Freelancers:
- Email / WhatsApp / Telegram
Freelancers usually opt for direct communication platforms like email, WhatsApp, and Telegram for report delivery. These tools offer a personalized and direct approach, allowing closer communication with clients. Sending file attachments via email or messages is a common practice to ensure reports arrive quickly and securely.
Drive (Google / Microsoft / Apple):
Cloud storage platforms like Google Drive, OneDrive, or iCloud are popular choices among freelancers. The ease of file sharing and the ability to update reports collaboratively offer flexibility and convenience for both parties.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, the universe of "Video Scouting" is complex and multifaceted, requiring a strategic approach and suitable tools for each stage of the process. From receiving the demand to delivering the final report, choosing the right platforms plays a crucial role in the efficiency and quality of work. For clubs, specialized platforms like Pro Soccer Data and the versatile ScoutDecision offer an integrated approach, facilitating tactical analysis and strategic decision-making. The integration of these tools provides a smooth experience, ensuring technical teams are equipped with accurate and relevant information. For freelancers, flexibility and direct communication are essential. Tools like email, WhatsApp, Telegram, and cloud storage platforms like Google Drive provide a more personalized approach, allowing close communication with clients and efficient report delivery. Regardless of the chosen path, integrity and fidelity to observations remain essential principles. Whether working for a renowned club or as an independent freelancer, the reputation of the "Video Scout" is shaped by accuracy, clarity, and a commitment to excellence. In the dynamic field of football, where success and failure are measured in details, the combination of analytical skills, efficient tools, and effective communication is the key to standing out in this challenging scenario. May each analysis be a valuable contribution to the improvement of the game, and may each report be a faithful reflection of the nuances and strategies that shape the spectacle that is football. The game never stops, and neither do we.
#VideoScout #TacticalAnalysis #ExcellenceInFootball
P.S. For 2 months, the ScoutDecision team collected testimonials from scouts in our network about their jobs, the tools they use, etc. Now you can read the results for free here: Football Scouting Survey 2024
