The Road to Fame and Fortune: Insights on the Career Paths of Young Irish Professional Footballers in England

Abstract

In the minds of many Irish youngsters, a career in professional football with one of the leading teams in England (Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool or Leeds United) is a dream that may never be realized. The present paper (drawing on a recently completed study) details the career paths of those who have spent time with an English club during the 15-year period 1984-1999. The aims of the research endeavour were to identify the reasons why many Irish youngsters opt for a career in professional football, and do so in England. While the theory of career decision making and development is pertinent to the topic, there is little evidence of its application among the participants in the study. Study findings reveal that the majority of players surveyed decided on a career in football because they loved the game, and sought a move to an English club for career enhancement reasons and possible financial rewards. Less than one-half of the study participants sought career guidance while attending secondary school, and aspiring professional footballers do not undertake any preparation prior to making the move to England. Given the lack of preparedness, it is not surprising that many encounter difficulties during their first year in England—should the 'information gap' be bridged, perhaps some players might seek alternative routes to a professional football career, and those who do might have a better chance of 'success'.