Kannur: Analysts experienced in European leagues are now finding roles in Indian football, particularly in the Kerala Super League. They systematically analyze various aspects, including opponents’ playing styles, weaknesses, player performances, heat maps, and transition statistics for the four clubs in the league.
Kiran K. Narayanan from Palakkad (Kannur Warriors FC), Odisha’s Abhinandan Mohanty (Calicut FC), Anjitha from Kasargod (Malappuram FC), and Anush from Chennai (Thiruvananthapuram Kompans FC) are working as analysts for different clubs in the Kerala Super League. As analysts are a relatively new role in India, few individuals from Kerala have undergone analyst training. While all clubs in the Indian Super League utilize this resource, not all clubs in the I-League do the same.
Currently, there are no analyst courses available in India, and those interested usually complete their studies abroad. Courses can be taken online or offline from countries like the UK and Spain. Required skills include technical knowledge related to football and the ability to operate various software and tools valuable for analysis.
In today’s football, scientific planning and the precise use of real-time data are crucial for a team’s success. This is why analysts have become one of the most vital components of a professional football club. Many aspects that coaches may miss can be identified through video analysis. Even minor adjustments in a team’s strategy to strengthen defense while scoring can be highlighted through analyst data. Kerala football is currently at a stage of adopting these changes. The role of analysts is critical for the development of young players and the improvement of veteran athletes’ performances.