The study was undertaken to investigate the relationships between linear speed, change of direction, and explosive power in the lower limbs of young soccer players. We aimed to determine the variables associated with effective change-of-direction speeds (time) based on the 30-m ZigZag (cutting maneuver) under 60° (CODS¹), and 30 m sprint divided into forward-backward-forward movement (CODS²). Sixty young soccer players (age: 17.4 ± 0.7 years, height: 1.76 ± 0.06 m, weight: 68.1 ± 8.9 kg) from soccer sport clubs were included. The participants performed 30-m change-of-direction sprints and 30-m backward and forward sprints. For the maximum speed evaluation, a straight-line 30-m sprint test was performed. Counter-movement jumps and standing broad jumps were used to assess jumping ability. Pearson’s linear correlation and a multiple stepwise linear regression model were used to adjust for variations related to the influence of functional speed and explosive power variables, which were analyzed based on the CODS¹ and CODS² data. Our results showed that 30-m CODS² and standing broad jumps were associated with CODS¹. The variation for the 30-m change-of-direction maneuvers under 60° could be explained by the results of 30-m forward-backward-forward change-of-direction. The standing broad jump explained 10% variation for the performances in change-of-direction sprint decrements and 9% variation for the 5-m change-of-direction with the best times, whereas straight-line sprinting was related to forward-backward-forward change-of-direction. The 10-m sprint explained 50% variation of the performances in the first 10-m forward running in the CODS² and 12% variation for 10-m backward-forward change-of-direction. The 30-m sprint explained 36% variation for 30-m forward-backward-forward change-of-direction. The 30-m sprint and overall body mass also explained 58% variation for 10-m forward-backward change-of-direction. For coaching purposes, we report that forward-backward-forward and cutting maneuver change-of-direction movements are independent and highly useful skills. This information can help to provide better training prescriptions.

• The aim of this study was to determine variables explaining the effectiveness of the COD speed in two different variation; 30 m zigzag (cutting maneuver) under 60°, and 30 m sprint divided into forward-backward-forward movement in youth soccer.

• The results showed that change of direction of movement (forward/backward/forward) and standing broad jump were associated with change od direction speed under 60°. Whereas straight-line sprinting was related to change of direction movement (forward/backward/forward).

• The results of this study provide further evidence to suggest that COD¹ (CODS over 45° to 60°), COD² (forward/backward/forward sprint) and straight-line sprinting represent three different physical qualities in soccer players. Therefore, we should determine these abilities via separate assessments.

• It is also important that the above-mentioned skills must be developed through a different type of conduction training.