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Methods

Writing Scout Reports

Crafting effective scouting reports for decision-makers

Effective scout reports communicate findings clearly and concisely to decision-makers. Elite reports balance data with observation, highlight strengths and weaknesses honestly, and provide clear recommendations. Understanding audience needs, structuring information logically, and backing claims with evidence separates professional reports from subjective opinions.

Key Points

1Start with clear recommendation: sign, monitor, or reject
2Balance strengths and weaknesses honestly without bias
3Support observations with specific examples and data
4Include tactical fit assessment for your club and system
5Address red flags directly rather than hiding concerns
6Provide context: opposition quality, league level, tactical system
7Keep reports concise; decision-makers lack time for essays

Metrics to Watch

✓Player attributes aligned with club needs and tactical system
✓Performance consistency across multiple matches observed
✓Specific examples supporting claims (goals, assists, key actions)
✓Red flags or concerns affecting recruitment decision
✓Age, contract situation, and estimated transfer fee
✓Comparison to current squad players in similar positions

Green Flags

+Clear recommendation backed by specific evidence
+Balanced assessment covering strengths and weaknesses honestly
+Tactical fit analysis aligned with club system
+Specific examples from matches watched
+Concise summary with detailed appendix for those wanting depth

Red Flags

-Vague claims without specific evidence or examples
-Highlighting only strengths whilst hiding weaknesses
-Recommending players without assessing tactical fit
-Failing to address obvious red flags or concerns
-Overly long reports burying key information in detail

Ask FootballGPT

“What should I include in a scouting report?”

“How do I structure a scout report effectively?”

“How long should a scouting report be?”

“Should I include weaknesses in scout reports?”

Frequently Asked Questions

What structure should a scouting report follow?

Executive summary with clear recommendation. Player overview (age, position, contract). Strengths with specific examples. Weaknesses with specific examples. Tactical fit for your system. Performance data summary. Transfer fee estimate and contract situation. Detailed match-by-match notes as appendix. Decision-makers read summary; coaches read detail.

How long should a scouting report be?

One-page executive summary with 2-3 page detailed analysis. Busy decision-makers read the summary; coaches wanting depth read details. Appendices can include match-by-match notes, statistical comparisons, and video timestamps. Concise reports get read; lengthy essays get ignored. Respect reader time.

Should I include player weaknesses in scouting reports?

Absolutely. Credible reports acknowledge weaknesses honestly. Hiding concerns damages trust and leads to poor signings. Address red flags directly, assess whether weaknesses are coachable or deal-breakers, and explain how limitations affect tactical fit. Balanced assessment is professional; one-sided advocacy is amateurish.

How do I write recommendations without overhyping players?

Use clear categories: strong recommendation, recommend with caveats, monitor for development, or reject. Provide context comparing to current squad players. Be honest about uncertainties and risks. Support claims with specific evidence. Avoid hyperbole and emotional language. Professional reports inform decisions rather than selling players.

Should scouting reports include transfer fee estimates?

Yes. Include estimated transfer fee, contract expiry date, release clause information, and wage expectations when known. This context affects recruitment decisions as much as player ability. A brilliant player outside budget constraints wastes everyone's time. Business considerations belong in professional reports.

Expert Advisors

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General Coach

All-round coaching

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The Pro's Pro

Professional/elite coaching

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Academy Mind

Academy pathway U13-U18

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