The impact of Brexit on English football: what changes has it brought to the Premier League?

Brexit, the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union, has brought significant transformations across various sectors, and English football is no exception. Since its implementation, noticeable changes in the Premier League and lower divisions have reshaped the dynamics of the sport in the country.

With Brexit, footballers from EU countries no longer benefit from free movement and are now considered non-EU players. To join English clubs, they must obtain a work permit (GBE), granted through a points-based system evaluating factors such as:

This system has limited the arrival of young players and emerging talents who do not meet the established criteria.

These restrictions also affect lower division clubs, such as League Two, which have increased their recruitment of local or lower-league players to adapt to the new regulations, reducing reliance on foreign talent.

The English Football Association (FA) has seen Brexit as an opportunity to promote national talent. Restrictions on foreign players have pushed clubs to focus more on developing and promoting English footballers, increasing their presence in Premier League and lower-division squads.

Since Brexit, English clubs are prohibited from signing players under 18 from EU countries, following FIFA regulations banning international transfers of minors outside the European Economic Area. This has blocked the arrival of young European prospects, as was the case with players like Cesc Fàbregas or Gerard Piqué in the past.

The new regulations have led to higher average transfer costs, particularly from countries like Portugal, where the average price per player has reached significant levels. This trend reflects increased competition and the challenges of accessing international talent.

The Premier League, known for its diversity and quality, faces challenges in maintaining its international appeal. Post-Brexit restrictions complicate the arrival of top-tier European players, potentially affecting the league’s competitiveness and entertainment value in the future.

Given this scenario, English clubs have adjusted their recruitment and talent development strategies. There is increased investment in local academies and the training of young English footballers to compensate for Brexit-imposed limitations and ensure long-term sporting sustainability.