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Football Insights Academy Podcast

Football Insights Academy Podcast

By: Tom Butterfield & David Bromley
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About this listen

 Welcome to The Football Insights Academy Podcast, the ultimate destination for football enthusiasts, aspiring analysts, scouts, and recruitment professionals who want to understand the beautiful game beyond what’s visible on match day. This podcast is dedicated to demystifying the world of football analytics, scouting, and recruitment while empowering listeners to elevate their understanding of the game. Each episode is packed with: Deep Dives into Playing Styles: Learn how teams operate on and off the ball with practical insights into identifying tactical frameworks, key player roles, and system dynamics. Data-Driven Decision Making: Discover how to turn raw stats into actionable insights, with a focus on metrics that matter, from the now mainstream expected goals (xG), through progressive passes, and defensive duels to cutting edge off-ball metrics. Player Evaluation & Recruitment: From uncovering hidden gems to identifying ‘appropriate’ players for specific roles and styles, we break down the process of effective scouting in a way that’s accessible to beginners and professionals alike. Real-World Tools and Frameworks: Gain hands-on knowledge of platforms like Wyscout and actionable workflows to identify and evaluate talent using data, including exportable metrics and case studies. Career Growth Tips: Learn how to get started or level up in football analysis, scouting, or recruitment with practical advice and career-focused strategies. Designed for those serious about understanding football beyond the surface, the podcast covers everything from core concepts like team playing styles and counter-attacking overlays to advanced recruitment strategies that clubs need today. We also explore the latest trends in football analytics, share inspiring success stories, and provide actionable takeaways for professionals working (or aspiring to work) in the game. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a budding analyst, or a seasoned scout looking to sharpen your skills, The Football Insights Academy Podcast is your go-to resource for developing a deeper understanding of football and making smarter decisions in the world of scouting and recruitment. Subscribe now and start your journey toward unlocking the game within the game!Copyright 2025 Tom Butterfield & David Bromley Football (Soccer)
Episodes
  • Ep39: Structure in Recruitment Decisions: Why Clarity Beats Guesswork

    Ep39: Structure in Recruitment Decisions: Why Clarity Beats Guesswork
    Dec 19 2025

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the complexities of football recruitment, emphasising the importance of structured decision-making processes.

    They explore the challenges faced by recruitment departments, the significance of understanding player roles, and the necessity of a systematic approach to evaluating potential signings.

    The conversation also highlights the role of modern tools and data in enhancing recruitment strategies while maintaining a focus on human judgment and context.

    Takeaways

    1. Recruitment decisions often lack a shared order of operations.
    2. Tools amplify existing processes but don't replace expertise.
    3. Understanding player roles is crucial for effective recruitment.
    4. Context matters in evaluating player performance.
    5. Availability is a key factor in player recruitment.
    6. The recruitment decision stack helps structure decision-making.
    7. Risk evaluation should be integrated into the recruitment process.
    8. Pre-mortem analysis can uncover hidden assumptions.
    9. Good recruitment is about repeatable reasoning and clear inputs.
    10. The order of recruitment steps significantly impacts outcomes.

    Merry Christmas Everyone!!

    Useful Links

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    41 mins
  • Ep38: Why Football Needs Better Thinking: Structure, Clarity & the Rise of AI-Supported Decisions

    Ep38: Why Football Needs Better Thinking: Structure, Clarity & the Rise of AI-Supported Decisions
    Dec 12 2025

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the intersection of AI and football, discussing how technology can enhance decision-making processes within clubs.

    They emphasise the importance of clear terminology and structured thinking, arguing that football's challenges stem from inconsistent language and unclear role definitions.

    The conversation introduces the concept of a 'context stack' for effective decision-making, highlighting how AI can be a powerful tool when used correctly.

    The episode concludes with a call for clubs to standardize their internal definitions to fully leverage AI's potential in recruitment and analysis.

    Takeaways

    • Football doesn't have a technology problem, it has a thinking problem.
    • AI isn't replacing people; it's exposing decision-making flaws.
    • Inconsistent terminology leads to misalignment in football clubs.
    • Clubs need to standardize their internal definitions for clarity.
    • AI can only work with clear behavioral definitions, not vague labels.
    • The context stack is essential for effective decision-making.
    • Good decisions come from structured thinking, not shortcuts.
    • AI magnifies ambiguity; clarity is crucial for effective use.
    • Football clubs must define terms to leverage AI effectively.
    • Better structure leads to better recruitment decisions.

    Useful Links

    Join the Free Kickstart Challenge

    Support The Show - Buy David and Tom a bag of peanut M&M's.

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    42 mins
  • Ep37: The Festive Fixture Pile-Up - Rotation, Recovery and Risk

    Ep37: The Festive Fixture Pile-Up - Rotation, Recovery and Risk
    Dec 5 2025

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the challenges faced by football clubs during the December fixture pile-up.

    They explore the impact of increased game frequency on player fatigue, tactical adjustments, and the importance of recovery. The conversation highlights the need for smart rotation strategies, the role of substitutes, and the significance of set pieces in a congested schedule.

    Takeaways

    • December magnifies existing problems in football.
    • Physical load spikes occur due to frequent matches.
    • Tactical complexity decreases during the festive period.
    • Recovery becomes a priority over training in December.
    • Mental fatigue affects players' decision-making.
    • Substitutes play a crucial role in December matches.
    • Set pieces become increasingly important in tight games.
    • Smart rotation strategies are essential for success.
    • Player chemistry can be disrupted by over-rotation.
    • Cognitive fatigue can lead to poor performance.

    Useful Links

    Join the Free Kickstart Challenge

    Support The Show - Buy David and Tom a bag of peanut M&M's.

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    36 mins
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