For young footballers aspiring to reach the next level, the prospect of being spotted by a scout is an exciting one. However, understanding what scouts look for can be the key to standing out from the competition. Most professional clubs develop player profiles tailored to their playing philosophy, style, and competitive level across different age groups and developmental phases.
Football Club Development Phases
1. Foundation Phase (Ages 6-12) – Focus on technical fundamentals and game enjoyment.
2. Youth Development Phase (Ages 13-16) – Tactical understanding and positional awareness.
3. Professional Development Phase (Ages 17-21) – Preparation for first-team football, mental resilience, and physical Development.
The Scouting Process
Most clubs observe and assess a player multiple times before making a final decision. Scouts compile detailed reportst o ensure they have a well-rounded understanding of the player’s potential. In addition to evaluating technical and tactical skills, scouts also gather background information on the player, such as family support, attitude, and overall character. This helps both the scouting team and the club provide the necessary guidance and support if the player is invited for a trial.
1. **Technical Skills**
Scouts assess a player’s technical ability. This includes proficiency with the ball, Receiving skills , Releasing skills, Scouts will look at the actions before the player is on the ball , whilst on the ball and after the ball is released.
2. **Physical Attributes**
Football is a demanding sport, and physical attributes often play a large role in a scout’s assessment. However, it’s not just about size and strength. Scouts look for players who can move quickly with and without the ball. Agility, the ability to change direction swiftly, is just as important as straight-line speed. Balance is also an important factor nd how well a player can hold off physicals Dules challenges while maintaining possession.
3. **Tactical Understanding**
Understanding the game is just as important as executing technical skills. Scouts look for players who demonstrate good positioning, pitch georgraph and awareness of the game’s flow, and the ability to read the play.
4. **Mental and Emotional Traits**
Scouts evaluate a player’s mental approach to the game, recognizing that attributes such as work ethic, determination, and attitude can be just as important as technical skill. A key factor in player assessment is their ability to handle performance problems during a match—whether it’s a mistake, a poor referee decision, or tactical challenges. Players who demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a strong mindset stand out to scouts. The ability to stay composed under pressure, quickly recrecognising setbacks, and maintain high levels of focus and effort is what separates good players from elite prospects.
Trial & process in the UK
In the UK, some clubs offer selected players the opportunity to attend:
* Selection Matches – Test performances against other trialists.
* Development Programmes – Extended training and assessment with the club.
* Straight Trials – A 6-8 week period training and playing alongside academy players.
During this period, the club conducts a full assessment of the player’s ability, adaptability, and mentality in a professional environment. Exposure to high-level training and competitive matches allows the club to determine whether the player is ready to be signed.
All football trials and club invitations are conducted in accordance with Premier League and EFL regulations.
These rules ensure a fair and structured approach to player recruitment, providing equal opportunities for young talent while maintaining professional standards across all clubs
“One club’s loss is another club’s gain.”
A Player who is released or overlooked by one club may go on to thrive elsewhere. Can you name any players who have achieved this?
“You never know who’s watching.”
Always give their best—because the right performance at the right time could be the difference that provide an opportunity.
Thank you!
James Mullane
Worked in Category #1 & #2 clubs in England! Currently head of national football scouting in Saudi Arabia! Go follow his journey @soccersocialuk
I think my grandson is worthy of watching as he matches all your attributes you have listed. He’s 17 this year but playes with the under 21 team at North cave at Hull.
My grandaughter plays for jpl under 16s but she is also playing for under 21 at chatham town, where are we able to get trials for other clubs