Mapping Research Trends in Soccer Physical Performance: A Bibliometric Analysis (2020-2026)

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the scientific structure and development of research on soccer physical performance through a bibliometric analysis. Bibliographic data were obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection database covering the period between 2020 and March 2026. The dataset was analyzed using the Bibliometrix package in the R environment and its web interface Biblioshiny to identify publication trends, leading authors and journals, keyword structures, and international collaboration networks. The results indicated that scientific production remained relatively stable between 2020 and 2024, followed by a noticeable increase in 2025, suggesting growing research interest in soccer physical performance. The analysis also revealed that a limited number of authors have played a prominent role in shaping the literature and that research output is concentrated in specialized sport science journals. Keyword analysis highlighted strength, speed, and power as central research themes, while fatigue, recovery, and injury have emerged as increasingly important topics. In addition, European countries occupy central positions in the international collaboration network. These findings provide a comprehensive overview of the intellectual structure and thematic evolution of soccer physical performance research. The results highlight emerging topics such as fatigue, recovery, and injury prevention, which may represent important directions for future research. In addition, the findings can assist coaches, sport scientists, and performance specialists in prioritizing evidence-based training, load monitoring, and athlete development strategies within soccer settings.