Motor–cognitive dual-task paradigms (DTPs) reflect the interaction between cognitive and motor demands during match play. However, evidence in youth football remains fragmented. This systematic review synthesizes research on DTP in competitive youth football, focusing on assessment tools, acute performance effects, and training interventions. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to October 2025 following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Thirteen studies were included. Results indicate that motor–cognitive dual-task tests show good validity and reliability, effectively discriminating between competitive levels and talent status. Acutely, dual-task conditions consistently lead to immediate performance decrements; notably, secondary motor tasks induce significantly greater physical and tactical costs than cognitive tasks. Longitudinal studies demonstrate that dual-task training results in superior improvements in physical, technical, and tactical performance compared with conventional training, likely due to enhanced attentional efficiency. In conclusion, DTP provides a valid and ecologically relevant framework for holistic performance evaluation and development in youth football.
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