This study examined functional movement patterns, anthropometrical characteristics and motor skills in elite young soccer players using the well-established Functional Movement ScreenTM system (FMS™). Sixty elite male soccer players participated (age 16.7 ± 2.3 y, height 185.4 ± 5.7 cm, weight 82.8 ± 6.7 kg, BMI 24.1 ± 1.3 kg/m2) from four age-based teams. There were 7 Goalkeepers (GK), 17 Defenders (DEF), 27 Midfielders (MID) and 9 Forwards (FW). We measured 5 m, 10 m, and 30 m sprint times and participants` vertical jump height and long jump distance. The FMS™ was used to measure functional movement ability. Our study indicated that 5 of the 7 measured variables were significant when considering position assignment of advanced youth soccer players. These are the 5 m sprint, 30 m sprint, BMI, vertical jump, and FMS™ score. Functional movement ability may be useful in the physical development of soccer skills and performance. A FMS™ score of = 14 was found in 28% of players and asymmetry was noted in 41%, both considered an important risk factor of injury.
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