Bundesliga Player Criticizes 'Laptop Coaches' for Over-reliance on Data

Deniz Undav, a national player for VfB Stuttgart, has voiced strong criticism regarding the current trend of data-driven decision-making in professional football. He argues that while data analysis offers benefits, it has led to an excessive reliance on "laptop coaches" who treat players as mere robots.

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The data analysis brings a lot to football, but too much is being looked at on the laptop now. Footballers are viewed too much as robots in training management.

Undav expressed his concern that the focus on data often overshadows the individual needs of athletes. "We have your fitness data, and here is the latest fitness program, so you must do it exactly like this," he stated, lamenting that this rigid approach can be detrimental. He pointed out that players, especially those from different backgrounds like Brazil, might not be accustomed to certain exercises, leading to injuries.

"Footballers are viewed too much as robots in training management," Undav told the "Bundesliga-Magazin." He advocates for a more personalized approach, urging coaches to "take more account of the habits and experiences of individual players" when designing training regimens.

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We have your fitness data, and here is the latest fitness program, so you must do it exactly like this.

While emphasizing that his critique is general and not aimed at his current club, Undav praised VfB Stuttgart for its more nuanced approach. He noted that the club does not rigidly adhere to standard professional schemes and even accommodates his specific dietary preferences, such as occasional Döner or burgers, despite his generally athlete-appropriate diet.

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Then a player might come from Brazil and has never done such exercises in his life. And then you wonder when he is injured three weeks later.

Looking ahead, Undav, who is known for his goal-scoring prowess, aspires to a career in football coaching after retiring. He currently sees himself more in an assistant coach role, actively engaging in tactical discussions with VfB head coach Sebastian Hoeneß. He enjoys presenting his ideas for resolving game situations, even if it sometimes leads to him learning from the coach's counter-arguments.

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We must take more account of the habits and experiences of individual players when it comes to training again.