Veronica Boquete Z6D1925

Development Beyond Football

Positively impacting players' wellbeing

All players should have the opportunity to develop their skills beyond football and FIFPRO strongly advocates for this. Football can be a fairly uncertain career. The next injury, coaching change or expiring contract may be career-ending. It is therefore important that players feel confident in their abilities to start a new chapter whenever the time comes.

What you should know

Positive impact on wellbeing and performance


Engaging in personal development can have a positive impact on the wellbeing and performance of a player.

Combining other pursuits with a playing career


Managing multiple demands is difficult and it is important that these demands are managed well, so that a player does not fail to achieve their potential in both sport and other pursuits.

Personal development pays off

Some players may feel that if they are engaging in personal development, they are less committed to their sport and are diluting their focus. However, research has found that this is rarely the case.

2.3 Education And Development

“As a player, exploring interests outside of football will make your life more rewarding – and your career transition easier.”

— by FIFPRO Player Development Manager Nienke van Gerven