Exploring practitioner decision making in talent development environments: A multidisciplinary case study of an English Premier League football academy

Abstract

Multidisciplinary working is perceived as best practice within elite football. However, our knowledge of decision-making as a collaborative team and the contextual realities experienced by multidisciplinary practitioners during decision-making processes requires scholarly attention. This study aimed to explore multidisciplinary decision-making and communication in an English Premier League (EPL) academy, adopting an interpretive case study approach. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 10 EPL practitioners who formed a multidisciplinary team. Data were analysed through a process of thematic analysis. Findings highlighted challenges surrounding the use and interpretation of data amongst multidisciplinary practitioners when making key decisions (i.e., to retain, loan or release academy players). We also found an increased appreciation of the contribution of player care staff within the multidisciplinary team, which was highly valued in the decision-making process. Finally, we highlighted the importance of developing trust and credibility within working relationships in multidisciplinary teams, and related challenges faced following an increase in remote and hybrid working. The findings have important implications for the development of multidisciplinary teams in elite sport and professional football academies, along with suggestions for future research to further our understanding of multidisciplinary working.