Uporaba umetne inteligence in strojnega učenja v sodobnem nogometu: sistematični pregled literature

Rok Vrban; Seamus Kelly; Uroš Rajkovič; Mirjana Kljajić Borštnar

doi:10.31449/upinf.286

Authors

Rok Vrban University of Maribor, Faculty of Organizational Sciences
Seamus Kelly University College Dublin
Uroš Rajkovič University of Maribor, Faculty of Organizational Sciences
Mirjana Kljajić Borštnar University of Maribor, Faculty of Organizational Sciences

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31449/upinf.286

Keywords:

artificial intelligence, digital technologies, football, machine learning

Abstract

Machine learning and artificial intelligence are becoming key components in the development of modern football, enabling deeper insights into player performance and more effective decision-making.

The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review to analyze the use of these technologies in talent identification, injury prediction, match outcome forecasting, and technical-tactical performance analysis. The analysis included a total of 35 empirical studies published between 2020 and 2025, sourced from major scientific databases.

The results indicate that machine learning algorithms provide more accurate and reliable predictions and support the development of individualized training strategies compared to traditional approaches. The analysis confirms that data-driven methods enhance player selection, reduce injury risk, and improve teams’ tactical efficiency. This systematic review highlights the need for further development of standardized models to ensure the ethical, safe, and effective implementation of artificial intelligence in sports environments.

Author Biographies

Rok Vrban, University of Maribor, Faculty of Organizational Sciences

Rok Vrban holds a master's degree in economics and business sciences and works as an independent expert associate and project manager at the Scientific Research Centre (ZRS) Bistra Ptuj. His work encompasses managing international development and research projects. His research focuses on sports management, sports informatics, and the use of digital technologies and machine learning in decision-making.
Seamus Kelly, University College Dublin

Seamus Kelly is an Associate Professor in the School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science at University College Dublin (UCD) in Ireland, where he teaches sports and exercise management. His research focuses on sports management, performing under pressure, player and coach development and evaluation, and career transitions in sport.
Uroš Rajkovič, University of Maribor, Faculty of Organizational Sciences

Uroš Rajkovič is an Associate Professor of Information Systems at the Faculty of Organizational Sciences, University of Maribor. His research focuses on decision models, healthcare informatics, and process optimization using expert systems and simulations. He is an active member of the editorial board of the journal Uporabna informatika.
Mirjana Kljajić Borštnar, University of Maribor, Faculty of Organizational Sciences

Mirjana Kljajić Borštnar is a Professor and researcher at the Department of Informatics, Faculty of Organizational Sciences, University of Maribor. Her research focuses on decision support systems, data mining, machine and organizational learning, and digital transformation. She is the Editor-in-Chief of the journal Uporabna informatika.