Seattle Reign head coach Laura Harvey has revealed that she turned to ChatGPT for tactical advice this season, saying the AI tool helped her decide on formations against specific opponents.
Speaking on the Soccerish Podcast, the English manager explained that she began by asking the large language model questions about the team's identity and then sought advice on which formations to use against NWSL sides. Harvey said the AI suggested a back five against two unnamed teams, and she implemented the tactic.
Harvey stated she and her coaching staff conducted their own analysis before acting on the suggestions. The Reign have used a back five on multiple occasions this season, coinciding with a notable improvement in results. After finishing second from bottom in 2024, the club sits fourth in the table heading into the final day of the regular season, securing a playoff spot.
Women's soccer analyst Kim McCauley noted that the Reign first deployed a back five in April against Orlando Pride, losing 1-0 but generating approximately 0.5 more expected goals than usual. Harvey declined to reveal the other team for which she used the tactic.
Harvey, a three-time NWSL Coach of the Year, rejoined Seattle in 2021 and has previously managed Arsenal, Utah Royals, and served as an assistant with the US women's national team.
