A broader synthesis, without a calculated average effect
The researchers searched PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science for controlled trials up to May 15, 2025. They included 45 publications covering 41 distinct studies, with a placebo, a control group or another comparison condition.
These included 28 randomized parallel-group studies, two randomized crossover or repeated-condition studies, and 11 studies that were non-randomized or whose group allocation could not be verified. The protocols, populations and measured outcomes differed enough to warrant a qualitative synthesis rather than a meta-analysis. No quantified average benefit can therefore be derived from this summary.
Signals for explosive efforts, not a guarantee
Sprints, accelerations and jumps require rapid resynthesis of adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. This dependence makes creatine biologically plausible as a performance aid. The mechanism explains why it is worth studying, not whether it is effective during a match.
Some trials report favorable results for repeated sprints, anaerobic power and muscle strength. However, between-group comparisons remain inconsistent, sometimes unclear or non-significant. Results for vertical jumping and technical skills are also mixed.
Endurance and recovery: no consistent benefit
The review finds no consistent benefit for endurance or changes of direction. Findings on recovery and fatigue are also largely null or inconsistent. This does not demonstrate an absence of effect in every situation, but it does not support promises of improvement.
Body mass often increases, particularly after loading protocols. However, evidence of gains in lean mass is limited and inconsistent. An increase in weight should therefore not be presented as a demonstrated gain in muscle.
Limitations to keep in mind
Only the PubMed abstract was consulted, not the full text. Study heterogeneity and methodological uncertainties limit the conclusions. Methodological assessments were conducted at the study level, without a formal outcome-specific risk-of-bias analysis. Funding, conflicts of interest and detailed safety data were not verified.
What we can take away
For football, creatine remains a plausible option rather than an established benefit. This review supports neither a promise of better match performance nor a universal supplementation protocol.
Sources and provenance
- Creatine supplementation in soccer players: a systematic review.
Source date: 2026-10-02.
Systematic Review, Journal Article, Review · Résumé PubMed uniquement, texte intégral non consulté