Esteban Granero, Artificial Intelligence as a Competitive Advantage in Football Decision-Making
Explores how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing decision-making in football, reducing uncertainty and enhancing the value of data within clubs
He begins by explaining his early interest in data, which emerged after suffering a serious knee injury. He has a particular focus on the transfer market, both from a sporting and financial perspective, seeking potential profitability.
He outlines his view of the club as a business tool, where players are treated as assets to be bought and sold. In this context, he sees technology as an opportunity to make the entire process more efficient. Olocip was born from the research of this approach, evolving over the past 10 years into the company it is today.
From a human perspective, the goal is to mirror the process carried out by artificial intelligence: observing, understanding patterns, and attempting to predict what may happen in the future, always considering the possible pathways ahead.
By combining data with predictive models, it is possible to reduce uncertainty, placing greater emphasis on future projections rather than solely on past data—although these predictions are not infallible. There has been a significant evolution in data collection, from manual observation in earlier stages to today’s automated and autonomous systems, where cameras and image-based technologies capture detailed information.
Once the data and algorithms are developed, Olocip creates tailored solutions for its clients based on their specific needs. It is important to emphasize that these tools are not designed to replace human decision-making, but to support and enhance it.
Additionally, artificial intelligence helps improve accessibility and interaction in a more efficient way, significantly enhancing the user experience. As a result, information can be presented more clearly, allowing clubs to access it in a more intuitive and engaging manner.
The goal of AI is not merely to describe information, but to explore ways of providing solutions and increasing the reliability of decision-making processes. AI serves the sports industry and must continue to adapt in order to gain the trust and support of those who are still distant from it. It holds enormous potential, although it also has certain limitations.
Even so, its evolution is exponential, and it will gradually begin to perform tasks that currently seem unthinkable. Those who understand how to use AI and recognize its importance will find it easier to continue developing professionally, while those who do not may gradually fall behind. Ensuring access to information will be key to avoiding significant disparities between individuals.