Thread by @Casemigos_

Biomechanics in football: William Saliba.

Thread.

First and obvious question, what is/are Biomechanics?

“The science of movement of the living body. The physics (mechanics) of motion exhibited or produced by biological (bio) systems.”

Biological characteristics (body) with traditional mechanics (motion).

Now, what are mechanics?

Mechanics are split into two components:

— Statics: Study of systems in a state of equilibrium (at stand-still/rest or constant state of motion).

— Dynamics: Study of systems in a state of accelerated or changing motion, reaction to alternation.

Biomechanical Analysis, two perspectives:

— Kinetics: Study of forces that inhibit, cause, facilitate or modify motion of a body. (Friction effect of artificial v real grass, e.g.)

— Kinematics: Study of the spatial and temporal characteristics of motion. (Traveling at speed.)

How do Biomechanics translate to football + what is the importance?

Biomechanics play a crucial role in modern recruitment models, to analyze optimal player movement and running styles, probability on injuries, overall fit for the team’s structure and tactical profile.

In… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

Specialized training schemes to build strong tendens, enlarge all the fibers in muscles to mitigate unnecessary injuries.

Boost running power and speed by emphasizing correct stances in motion, shin angle 90° relative to the ground + ankle out in-front of your knee to maintain… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

Saliba’s body composition = lab made, limbs to torso ratio is unparalleled. One of God’s favorites.

6’3 frame, muscular build, powerful legs, strong core. Remains light on feet + centre of gravity of a shorter player despite his frame. Physical Unicorn.

Hip flexibility, enables him to alternate step-count on command and defend low-to-ground to hack diminutive forwards in the channels. Broad upper body span to challenge powerful/tall CFs 1v1 or swift across the opponent in long-duels, French wall at the back.

Long legs to… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

Sideways stance to track the attackers movement and be mobile on-feet, chest aimed towards the ball, springy on toes to enable quick launches and or be able to react to sprint duels.

William Saliba is the master of this. Matches attackers stride once the (long)pass launches,… https://t.co/5CYV567PTdtwitter.com/i/web/status/1…

Granted I have missed valuable components (smarter brains will add it in the comments, I presume).

I’m still learning. Hope to have given some value and insight into biomechanics and the importance it holds in the modern game.