Photo via BBC Sport

Why early-season data points to Premiership style shift

The Scottish Premiership is undergoing a noticeable tactical transformation this season, with teams embracing a more possession-based and patient style of play. Early data reveals a sharp rise in passing volume, with an average of 886 passes per game—up 58 from last term—and a passing accuracy of 81%, the highest in five years.

Clubs like Dundee United, now led by Jim Goodwin, have shifted their approach, with United’s possession climbing from 42% to 50% and accurate passes surging from 219 to 320 per match. Celtic and Motherwell lead the league in possession at 61%, while St Mirren and Kilmarnock have also adopted more expansive tactics under Craig McLeish and Neil McCann, respectively.

The trend extends to newly promoted St Johnstone and Hibernian, where Dutch coach Marink Reedijk’s appointment signals further evolution in the league’s style. Despite fewer goals per game (2.5, the lowest since 2021-22), teams are generating more shots (28.6 per match), though strikes from outside the box are declining, reflecting a broader shift toward higher-quality chances over speculative long-range efforts.

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