Tag: Data

Why I use Wyscout and how I would improve the platform

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Data Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting

Data is essential to the performance-based analysis that we strive for at TheMastermindSite.com, looking to enhance the quality of our articles and insights; whilst backing up the eye test with further support. Many sites have helped with this quest over the years, each providing different avenues of support. However, if one data site could provide all of the features needed wrapped up in one, it would make the process smoother. With that, I assess why Wyscout has become the #1 resource that I use in my analyses and articles, and how the site could improve to ensure they stay ahead of the free data sites available.

The next evolution of my ‘Role Continuity Evaluation System’ one year later

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Data Analysis, Masterclasses, Most Recent, Recruitment & Scouting

At the beginning of 2022, I established twenty-two player roles that footballers often adopt on the pitch. One of the objectives of the RCES and the presentation of 'IQ scores' pertaining to a player's specific role was to present an alternative to the statistics sites that use data as their sole metric for evaluating players. But in creating a less subjective and more sustainable approach to the evaluation model, data must continue to be the centrepiece. As I always preach, we can then use that data to follow-up with an eye test before dissecting deeper or recommending a player to a club. So with that, 'Role Continuity' evolved.

Microsoft Excel: Inputting data + creating graphs and charts

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Data Analysis, Masterclasses

Microsoft Excel is one of the most commonly used platforms in businesses around the world, particularly for inputting and analyzing data. As an analyst, it will become a useful tool for you to keep information in one place, and create stunning graphs and charts on the data you find. It's used so much so that most platforms you will find (FBRef, Wyscout, etc.) even have the ability for you to download their statistics for your own purposes on Excel. Let's jump into how to use this well-known platform to your benefit when conducting football analysis.

Why Dusan Vlahovic is perfect for Juventus

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Data Analysis, Most Recent, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting, Serie A, Striker

Toward the end of the January transfer window, Juventus swept in with a big money move for Dusan Vlahovic, finally securing themselves a Cristiano Ronaldo replacement. The big Serb has made a name for himself in Serie A with his stunning run of goal-scoring form, bagging 38 goals in 58 matches for Fiorentina across the past two seasons. But Vlahovic doesn't just offer a team goals, and that is precisely why Juventus worked so hard to secure his signature at the end of January, for a hefty €82 million fee. Here is why Dusan Vlahovic is perfect for The Old Lady, and an adequate replacement for one of the game's all time greats.

Analyzing Europe’s best ‘Progressive Pass Receivers’

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Coaching, Data Analysis, German Bundesliga, Masterclasses, Most Recent, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Serie A

Disclaimer: This is NOT a sponsored post. But anyone who's read my analyses over the past few years will know that I'm a massive fan of the football data and statistics website FBRef. Powered by StatsBomb, FBRef is a free to use site with loads of data from footballing leagues around the world, including detailed scouting reports, a nifty 'Player Comparison Tool', and several practical statistics that can't be found anywhere else. So with that, today, I break down the underrated value of one of my favourite FBRef statistics - a lesser known thing called 'Progressive Passes Received.'

Analyzing the Premier League table based on Expected Points (xP)

by TMS Staff, posted in Data Analysis, Most Recent, Premier League

The use of probability models in football to calculate Expected Goals, Expected Goals Conceded and Expected Points, have taken off to new heights in recent years - with more fans, coaches, managers and even players paying attention to these hypothetical numbers. Between statistical probability, the actual result, and the expectations for all that has been produced, we analyze how many points each team should have won in each match, based on Expected Points.

Analyzing Dortmund’s future centre-back options

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Centre Backs, Data Analysis, German Bundesliga, Player Analysis, Recruitment & Scouting

Dortmund need to consider their centre-back options in the current market, and start planning for the future. We take a look at the very best defenders that could make for realistic and easy signings for the Black & Yellows to make this summer. Let's get into it.