Footballers are People, Like You and Me

It has been well documented over the last few years about racial abuse directed at footballers.  Newspaper have discussed high profile footballers, like Raheem Sterling.  Talksport radio also interviewed Ebsfleet United goalkeeper Nathan Ashmore on his struggles.

The sad disappearance and death of Emiliano Sala will have had a large effect on the thoughts and feelings of the Cardiff City players, as well as the Nantes players – as then manager, Neil Warnock mentioned at the time.

Additionally, some footballers have come out in public recently telling their own personal stories around mental health and how it has impacted their lives Aaron Lennon, Charlie Adam, Kris Boyd and David Cotterill are examples.

Yet people still often forget professional footballers are humans

Should professional footballers have different expectations about life just because they are famous and have privileges that come with the job?

Should professional footballers live by different rules?  

My opinion is an outright NO, footballers, whatever the level they play at, are human beings.  There is more to players than their technical, physical and mental qualities on the football pitch.  They are someone’s son, daughter, brother, or sister.  They may even be a mum or a dad. So deserve to be treated not only as footballers, but also as people.

Many players rise to fame at a very young age and find it difficult to go out and do basic things, like visit the supermarket without being recognized.   The better the player, the more they live their lives under greater scrutiny. 

That can be a lot of pressure to deal with 24/7.

Multiple technical and athletic skills are required to be successful in football.  However, ultimately success also depends on the whole person, their psychological characteristics and  well-being.

Clubs, academies and organisations should take note of the messages in the media today and be proactive not reactive.  Focusing on talent alone is not the way forward to develop footballers who play with a smile on their face and go on to fulfil their potential. Clearly support systems MUST include well-being practitioners and performance lifestyle support advisers, their roles are crucial and just as vital as a coach.

If you enjoyed this article feel free to forward it on to any coaches or directors who you think might find it helpful.  Or if you’d like to read regular updates related to Football Psychology be sure to sign up to “The Mental Edge” .

You many also have some questions about 1-2-1 Sports Psychology Coaching with a Leading Sport Psychologist, David Charlton, based near Newcastle upon Tyne – Face to face and/or via video call are available.