The soccer goalkeeper profile: bibliographic review

Objective The main aim of this article was to review the existing scientific literature on the soccer goalkeeper. Method This article has reviewed the scientific literature related to the soccer goalkeeper as long as they offered specific information about this position on the field, including a total of 56 scientific articles. Results The knowledge already recollected by authors to be able to apply it on training has been divided in the following chapters: anthropometric profile, conditional and performance profile (sprint, jump, agility, strength, aerobic capacity, mobility, and specific game technique), external load profile, and injury pathological profile. Conclusion The most noteworthy conclusions obtained are: 1) the higher the level of the team, the higher and heavier the goalkeepers; 2) in early ages (9-13 years) the training of goalkeepers is not well posed, since compared to the players are worse both in physical capacities and technique; 3) the aerobic capacity at long distances does not influence the performance of the goalkeeper; 4) the sprint, the jump, the agility, and the mobility are factors that determine the performance of the goalkeeper; 5) the goalkeepers are less likely to be injured than the field players, but there are certain typical injuries in the position that must be protected by a proper way of strengthening and technique.

Automated summary

This article reviewed the existing scientific literature on soccer goalkeepers, focusing on their physical characteristics, conditional and performance abilities, external load, and injury profiles. The study found that goalkeepers at higher levels tend to be taller and heavier, and factors such as sprinting, jumping, agility, and mobility play a significant role in goalkeeper performance.