Football Experts in Madrid Discuss Reducing Muscle Injuries Through AI Technologies

G. E (Elbotola)

30 March 2026at11:30

The Spanish Football Federation headquarters in Las Rozas, Madrid, hosted the SCS Football Lab 2026 conference, which focused on strategies for managing competitive loads and preventing muscle injuries.

The event saw wide attendance from experts and representatives of major clubs across Europe and America, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Kansas City, to discuss the increasing physical challenges players face amidst congested match schedules and rising competitive intensity.

The conference showcased the InjuryPro tool, based on explainable artificial intelligence, developed by the team of Professor Pedro Emilio Alcaraz, Director of the High Performance Sports Research Center at UCAM University.

This technology aims to predict the risks of muscle injuries, which continue to rise despite technological advancements. Alcaraz stated, "We believe that by using new tools, we can predict the risks of muscle injury which, despite all the progress made, are increasing year after year."

Participants addressed the issue of physical fatigue resulting from the intensity of competitions, especially with the impact of crowded schedules on players ahead of upcoming World Cup tournaments.

Pedro Emilio Alcaraz, President of the SCS Strength and Conditioning Association, explained, "The excessive increase in competitive and training loads causes a large number of injuries, especially muscle injuries, which we can avoid."

Meanwhile, Francesc Cos, Sports Performance Director at City Football Group, highlighted the complexity of the situation, stating, "Injuries are not decreasing, but the intensity of play in football has also increased."

These discussions come at a time when scientific studies indicate that European leagues, including Spain's La Liga, are experiencing high stress levels, increasing the likelihood of star players suffering physical injuries.

The discussions in Madrid highlighted the importance of integrating advanced technology to counter the pressures imposed by the current match agenda on elite global football clubs.

Q&A

What was the main focus of the SCS Football Lab 2026 conference in Madrid?

The SCS Football Lab 2026 conference in Madrid primarily focused on strategies for managing competitive loads and preventing muscle injuries in football. Experts from major clubs discussed increasing physical challenges and showcased an AI tool designed to predict injury risks.

How are current football schedules impacting player injuries?

Current football schedules, characterized by congested match calendars and rising competitive intensity, are significantly increasing physical fatigue and the likelihood of muscle injuries among players. This trend is observed despite advancements in sports science.

What is the goal of integrating AI technology like InjuryPro into football injury prevention?

The goal of integrating AI technology like InjuryPro is to proactively predict the risks of muscle injuries, which are currently increasing year after year. This aims to help clubs avoid a large number of preventable injuries by better managing player loads.