Liverpool’s AI Revolution: TacticAI and the Future of Set-Piece Mastery

In the ever-evolving landscape of football, the fusion of cutting-edge technology and tactical acumen has become an essential ingredient for success. Liverpool FC, renowned for their innovative approach both on and off the pitch, have once again taken a bold step forward. In collaboration with Google DeepMind, they have embarked on a groundbreaking project titled TacticAI. This initiative aims to enhance the club’s set-piece efficiency, with a specific focus on corners, by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI). As Mark Carey reports in The Athletic, this collaboration marks a significant milestone in the club’s continuous quest for a competitive edge.

Liverpool's corner success was average last season.#LFC have been working with @GoogleDeepMind in recent years, and their latest project uses artificial intelligence to optimise corner strategy.

I spoke with @PetarV_93 for @TheAthleticFC 👇https://t.co/udCL3a0sHc pic.twitter.com/C6l2m2jfXa

— Mark Carey (@MarkCarey93) August 6, 2024

The Power of AI in Football Tactics

Liverpool’s analytics department, led by William Spearman, has been at the forefront of integrating advanced data analysis into football strategies. The partnership with Google DeepMind represents the latest frontier in this endeavour. The project, helmed by researchers Zhe Wang and Petar Velickovic, utilised data from nearly 10,000 corner kicks across multiple Premier League seasons. This extensive dataset included variables such as player height, weight, starting location, and movement, allowing the AI to predict potential outcomes and offer strategic adjustments.

As noted by Velickovic, “The aim is not to tell you that a player needs to move two or three metres to the left or the right. You make minor adjustments to a player’s location, orientation or velocity which are all relatively small, and that was deliberate.” The subtlety of these adjustments underscores the intricate nature of modern football, where minor tweaks can have a substantial impact on the outcome of a match.

A core objective of TacticAI is to assist coaches and analysts by providing a streamlined workflow. Traditionally, opposition analysts spend hours sifting through video footage, identifying patterns, and developing strategies. TacticAI simplifies this process by curating defensive strategies based on similar opponent routines, thus saving valuable time and effort. This efficiency is further highlighted by Velickovic’s observation: “This tool is designed to accelerate a coach’s ability to spot patterns.”

Real-World Impact and Future Potential

The practical applications of TacticAI extend beyond theoretical analysis. During testing, Liverpool’s experts, including assistant coaches and video analysts, found it challenging to distinguish between real-life corner routines and those suggested by TacticAI. In fact, the AI’s recommendations were favoured 90% of the time, illustrating its potential to enhance tactical decision-making. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that this technology is still in the research phase and has not yet been implemented in Liverpool’s matchday analysis.

This corner tactics from Liverpool vs Arsenal is killing me so bad tho they didn’t score I can see glimpses . What do you have for me Arne slot !!!! Slutty Ball 🔥🔥@CyrusAgogo @thekingadjor pic.twitter.com/tH0XzR8uBA

— They Say (@joe_the_boyy) August 1, 2024

The implications of this research are profound, especially in light of the increasing importance of set-pieces in football. As Carey points out, “The rise of dedicated set-piece coaches shows how many clubs are growing wise to this important part of the game — with 28 per cent of all goals scored from dead-ball situations in the Premier League last season.” For Liverpool, whose recent history is punctuated by memorable moments from corners, the potential to refine this aspect of their game could prove invaluable.

One such iconic moment was Alisson Becker’s last-minute header against West Bromwich Albion in 2021, a goal that kept Liverpool’s Champions League hopes alive. These moments underline the critical role of delivery, with players like Trent Alexander-Arnold being pivotal. As set-piece specialist Gianni Vio states, “The taker is the most important player in set pieces.” Without precise execution, even the most well-conceived routines can falter.

The Broader Implications of AI in Football

The collaboration between Liverpool and Google DeepMind is not an isolated venture but part of a broader trend in sports and other industries. The growth of AI technologies, particularly generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, has revolutionised how we approach complex problems. In football, AI’s role is to complement human expertise, offering objective insights that can be integrated with subjective analysis. While the data-driven approach is invaluable, the human element remains irreplaceable in interpreting and applying these insights.

As we look to the future, the potential for AI to shape football tactics is immense. The ability to continuously update and refine strategies based on evolving data sets opens up new dimensions in tactical planning. This adaptability is crucial, as what worked in the past may not be effective in today’s game. Liverpool’s ongoing collaboration with Google DeepMind exemplifies a commitment to innovation, a hallmark of the club’s approach under Jurgen Klopp and beyond.

We're already seeing Arne Slot's corner tactics for Liverpool 👀 pic.twitter.com/sx0wLkwz6h

— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) August 1, 2024

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s exhilarating to witness our club pushing the boundaries of football innovation. The TacticAI project is a testament to the club’s relentless pursuit of excellence, always looking for ways to gain that extra edge. While the AI’s practical application is still in its infancy, the potential benefits are undeniable. Imagine our set-piece routines being refined to perfection, with AI helping to pinpoint even the smallest of advantages. It’s a thrilling prospect that could see us scoring more decisive goals from corners, just like those unforgettable moments from Alisson and Alexander-Arnold.

As much as we all loved Klopp this 'Slot Shape' jazz is going to be fascinating to watch and write about – though less of the 3am finishes be nice please #LFC 🤣 https://t.co/8sGXvlkL7y

— Harper Morgan (@HarpMorgs) August 5, 2024

The collaboration with Google DeepMind also highlights the club’s forward-thinking mentality. In an era where football is becoming increasingly data-driven, being at the forefront of such technological advancements sets us apart. It’s not just about keeping up with the times; it’s about leading the way. As Liverpool fans, we take pride in our club’s rich history and innovative spirit. The integration of AI in our tactical setup is a continuation of that tradition, promising a future where we remain not just competitors but pioneers.