The role of the goalkeeper (GK) is one of the most specialised roles in football, but little research has explored its specific requirements. This study aimed to compare the technical and tactical demands and capabilities of GKs across three age groups in an English Category 1 football academy. The actions of Under 13 (n = 2), Under 15 (n = 2) and Under 18 (n = 2) GKs were analysed using a club-specific notational analysis system, during the 2023/24 season (n = 71 matches), to assess the prevalence and impact of in possession (IP) and out of possession (OP) actions. Results showed IP actions, as a percentage of total actions, increased with age (U13 = 69.75 ± 5.59%, U15 = 78.22 ± 5.99%, U18 = 85.29 ± 3.59%). There were differences between age groups in the prevalence and impact of IP actions, but no differences in the prevalence of OP actions, although the U18s performed more negative impact actions OP than the U13s. Findings suggest that GKs are increasingly involved IP as they progress through the academy, whereas, the OP demands remain similar, but become more technically challenging to deal with. Coaches should consider these findings to design age-appropriate, representative training sessions, track and predict players` progression, and inform individual development plans.
© Copyright 2025 International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching. SAGE Publications. All rights reserved.