A year ago, I presented an in-depth analysis on my YouTube channel, exploring Ansu Fati's running mechanics, which I identified as a significant contributor to a devastating knee injury and a series of subsequent injuries in both legs. The original analysis can be found here: https://youtu.be/r0Y56N9MMn8
Recently, Fati faced another setback, sustaining an apparent calf injury in the right leg. Intrigued to discover if any adjustments had been made to his sports mechanics, I revisited his current technique. To my surprise, there were no discernible changes; Ansu Fati's technical capacity remains unchanged since the initial injury analysis.
In the attached report, you can compare the evidence alongside the video, highlighting the lack of improvements in his running mechanics. We can infer, therefore, that the persistent externally rotated legs might significantly contribute to the overload of the calf (and the other leg structures). When the foot is not aligned with the direction of running, one of the two gastrocnemius muscles bears more load than it is prepared for, while the other half carries a partial load.
The underlying concern is that each subsequent injury compounds the damage to structures and increases the overload in other anatomical areas, perpetuating a cycle that continues until the player either cannot endure the pain and frustration of constant setbacks or faces limitations that hinder their enjoyment of the game. Furthermore, these setbacks can impede the player's and clubs' ability to secure lucrative contracts, potentially hastening the premature end of their career.
This predicament highlights the cost that many young athletes and clubs pay when prematurely promoting players to the first team. Whether driven by institutional economic needs or other factors, the absence of a proper and methodical transition process places these athletes, their agents, and the teams they represent at risk of missed opportunities.
For a more comprehensive understanding of how to conduct an integrative performance analysis, please feel free to contact Daniel Kamenetzky at spandrelsport@gmail.com
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