At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse opponents and support tactical planning for the first team.
- Company: Join Leeds United, a club driven by passion and performance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and exciting benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on match strategies and team success.
- Qualifications: 3 years in professional football analysis and strong tactical knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Location - Thorp Arch Training Ground, LS23
Closing Date - 20th May 2026
Due to the expected level of interest, applications may close earlier than the advertised deadline. We therefore encourage interested candidates to apply early.
Join the Team Behind the Team
At Leeds United, we know that success on the pitch starts with strength behind the scenes. The First Team Opposition Analyst will play a key role in supporting the club’s tactical preparation and performance planning. The role focuses on analysing upcoming opponents, delivering insights to the coaching and analysis team, and assisting in both matchday and post‑match analysis using telestration tools and video analysis to support tactical planning and game plan creation.
What You’ll Be Doing
The position requires working closely with 1st team coaches, analysts, and the data department to provide actionable intelligence that informs first team strategy and performance and support tactical planning and game plan creation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Opposition Analysis
- Play a central role in the department’s first team opposition analysis process.
- Deliver high-quality tactical insights using video analysis and telestration tools to support game plan creation.
- Work closely with other first team analysts to monitor tactical trends, innovations, and best practice.
- Attend all first team fixtures.
- Pre-Match
- Lead the preparation of opposition analysis, presenting findings to the first team coaching staff.
- Collaborate with the club’s data department to assess opposition strengths, weaknesses, and playing styles.
- Contribute to tactical planning and match strategy sessions.
- Match Day
- Perform live coding of match events and provide real‑time feedback to the coaching team.
- Prepare half‑time reports and visual aids to support in‑game coaching decisions.
- Post-Match
- Lead the preparation of post‑match content, including tactical and performance reviews.
- Create and maintain databases to analyse trends, opposition patterns, and playing philosophies.
- Assist the wider performance analysis team with ad‑hoc projects and analysis requests under the direction of the Lead First Team Analyst.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone proactive, personable, and who thrives in a busy environment. You’ll be a key point of contact within the MDT, so building trust, staying organised, and maintaining confidentiality are all essential.
You’ll have:
- Minimum 3 years’ experience working in a first team environment in professional football.
- Strong knowledge of Premier League football, including physical demands, tactical variability, and league‑specific trends.
- Experience working in the Premier League is desirable but not essential – other leagues will be considered.
- Strong proficiency with industry‑leading analysis software (e.g., Sportscode, Wyscout) and telestration tools (e.g., Studio).
- Experience working with dashboards, datasets, and performance metrics.
- Ability to translate complex data and video into clear, actionable insights for coaches and players.
- Strong proficiency with Mac software for video presentation and reporting (e.g., Keynote, PowerPoint).
- Undergraduate and/or postgraduate degree in Performance Analysis, Sport Science, or a related subject.
- UEFA B Coaching License or working towards it.
Why Should You Join Leeds United?
Whether you are on the pitch or behind the scenes here, we’re united by passion, pride, and a drive to always improve. You’ll be joining a supportive people team where your voice is valued and your development matters.
In return for your dedication, you’ll receive a competitive salary package and pension scheme, along with a range of exciting benefits.
If you’re looking to take the next step in your career and want to be part of a club that’s as committed to its people as it is to performance, we would love to see your application.
First Team Opposition Analyst employer: Leeds United
At Leeds United, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where every team member plays a vital role in our success. Located at the Thorp Arch Training Ground, you will benefit from a culture that values collaboration and innovation, alongside competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Join us to not only advance your career in professional football but also to be part of a passionate community dedicated to excellence both on and off the pitch.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land First Team Opposition Analyst
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the club inside out! Research Leeds United's recent matches, tactics, and player performances. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former analysts at Leeds United on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just put your application on the top of the pile.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Brush up on your video analysis skills and be ready to demonstrate how you’d analyse an opponent. Show them you can turn data into actionable insights on the spot!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team behind the team!
We think you need these skills to ace First Team Opposition Analyst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us:Before you start your application, take a moment to familiarise yourself with Leeds United and our values. Understanding our culture will help you tailor your application to show how you fit into the team behind the team.
Show Off Your Skills:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience with analysis software and your knowledge of Premier League football. We want to see how your skills can contribute to our tactical planning and performance analysis.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to explain your previous roles and how they relate to the position of First Team Opposition Analyst. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. Given the expected level of interest, we encourage you to apply through our website as soon as possible to ensure your chance at joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds United
✨Know Your Opponents
Before the interview, dive deep into the teams Leeds United will be facing. Familiarise yourself with their playing styles, strengths, and weaknesses. This knowledge will not only impress the interviewers but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've used video analysis and telestration tools in previous roles. Bring along any relevant reports or presentations that highlight your ability to translate complex data into actionable insights for coaches.
✨Be Ready for Tactical Discussions
Expect questions about tactical planning and match strategies. Brush up on current trends in Premier League football and be prepared to share your thoughts on how you would approach analysing an upcoming opponent.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with coaches and analysts, be ready to discuss your experience in team environments. Share examples of how you've built trust and maintained confidentiality while collaborating on projects.
