Players’ Perceptions of the Talent Development Environment Within the English Premier League and Football League

There is an increasing awareness of the importance environment in academy players’ development, yet limited research has investigated perceptions their talent development environments (TDEs). This study focused on soccer TDE and compared across English categorization (CAT) system. A total 136 U.K.-based male players ( M age = 17.7, SD 1.03 years) representing all four categories (1 highest to 4 lowest ) academies aligned professional clubs completed Questionnaire-5 (TDEQ-5). The within CAT1 had significantly more positive support network p .01) holistic quality preparation .03) than CAT3 counterparts. Across CAT2–CAT3, was least positively perceived subscale TDEQ-5, suggesting need for additional coach education this area. Soccer should consider how they ensure that areas service are associated with optimal TDEs by offering a well-communicated experience enhance effective personal player development. findings may have implications progression rates lower categorized academies.