2.3.2. Career Transition

Career Transition

Life after football

The career of a footballer is short at the best of times, and can be cut even shorter due to forced retirement. While most people have forty years or more to earn an income in their chosen field, players generally have less than half that time to contribute to their life savings. Only a small number of players can achieve lifetime financial security from their professional playing careers. 
It is therefore imperative for footballers to be able to transition smoothly into a post-playing career.

What you should know

Transiting into a post-playing career is challenging for a variety of reasons

These include, but are not limited to, a lack of qualifications, limited work experience, and a loss of identity.

FIFPRO works closely with national player unions to help players prepare

This could be through higher education, raising awareness of the career opportunities that are available, or even simply making players aware of the transferable skills that they already possess.

The environment should step up to support players in this process

Encouragement by all those in a players' environment, such as parents, coaches, clubs, agents, national governing bodies and player associations is vital to help them prepare for the day that they stop playing professional football.

Karen Carney VISA Pundit
Career Transition Player story

Tatiana Saunders: My journey from Wall Street to professional football

Goalkeeper Tatiana Saunders has experienced a unique route into professional football – via Wall Street. Raised in New York, the former England youth international recounts her transition from the world of finance to playing professionally in Europe.

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Tatiana Saunders: My journey from Wall Street to professional football