What careers do Premier League players pursue after retiring from professional football?

From coaching roles to entrepreneurial ventures, Premier League footballers often pursue diverse paths after retiring from professional play. The transition from the pitch to post-retirement life involves exploring various opportunities that align with their interests, skills, and financial goals. Join us as we delve into the common avenues retired Premier League players embark upon, highlighting notable examples and emerging trends.

Coaching and Managerial Careers

A significant number of retired Premier League players remain within the football sphere by transitioning into coaching or managerial positions. This path allows them to leverage their on-field experience and tactical understanding to mentor the next generation of talent.

Transitioning from Player to Coach

Many former players begin their coaching journey by obtaining relevant certifications and gaining experience with youth teams or as assistant coaches. This gradual progression helps them develop the necessary skills to manage teams effectively.

Notable Managerial Appointments

• Frank Lampard: After an illustrious playing career, Lampard ventured into management with Derby County in 2018, leading them to the Championship play-off final. He later managed Chelsea and Everton, and as of 2024, he took the managerial role at Coventry City.
• Kevin Phillips: The former Sunderland striker embarked on a managerial career post-retirement, with stints at South Shields and Hartlepool. In 2025, he managed AFC Fylde in the National League, though his tenure was brief due to the team's performance challenges. 

Media and Punditry Roles

The rise of sports broadcasting has opened avenues for retired players to share their insights as pundits and commentators. Their firsthand experience provides valuable perspectives to audiences.

Engaging with Sports Media

Retired players often participate in television and radio programs, offering analysis and commentary on current matches and football-related topics.

Examples of Media Engagement

• Stephen Warnock: Following his retirement, Warnock became a regular pundit, covering various football competitions for networks such as BBC, BT Sport, and NBC Sports. In 2024, he candidly discussed his struggles with depression post-retirement, highlighting mental health awareness among former athletes.
• Micah Richards: The former Manchester City defender transitioned into a successful media career, providing punditry for major broadcasters and earning acclaim for his insightful and charismatic analysis.

Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship

Leveraging their financial resources and public profiles, many retired footballers venture into business, exploring industries ranging from hospitality to real estate.

Diverse Business Endeavors

• Mark Viduka: The ex-Leeds United striker chose a tranquil post-retirement life by opening a coffee shop in Zagreb, Croatia. This venture reflects his desire for a peaceful lifestyle away from the football limelight. 
• Andrew Johnson: The former Crystal Palace forward transitioned into the property sector, running a property company and working for a business advisory firm. In 2024, he expanded his football involvement by taking on the role of director of football at AFC Croydon Athletic, a non-league club.
• Zat Knight: After retiring, Knight moved to Los Angeles, where he manages a real estate investment company and owns a fragrance line, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit beyond the football field.

Pursuing Passions and Unconventional Careers

Some retired players choose to follow personal passions or embark on unconventional career paths that differ markedly from their football days.

From Football to New Ventures

• Lee Sharpe: The former Manchester United winger engaged in various reality television shows post-retirement and, in 2021, opened a sports bar named "Sharpey's" in Xàbia, Spain. His ventures reflect a blend of media involvement and entrepreneurship.
• Henri Lansbury: After retiring, Lansbury pursued his interest in horticulture by focusing on his lawn fertiliser business, demonstrating a shift from sports to agriculture

Financial Planning and Modest Living

Not all retired players maintain the extravagant lifestyles often associated with professional athletes. Some prioritize financial planning and modest living to ensure long-term stability.

Prudent Financial Choices

• Andy Irving: The West Ham midfielder, despite his Premier League success, opts for a humble lifestyle, driving a modest car and investing in real estate to secure his future beyond football.

Mental Health and Identity Challenges

The transition away from professional sports can pose mental health challenges, as players adjust to life without the routine and identity provided by football.

Addressing Post-Retirement Struggles

• Anton Ferdinand: After retiring, Ferdinand faced identity struggles and weight gain. Participating in the television show "Dancing On Ice" helped him regain his spark and athletic spirit, highlighting the importance of finding new passions post-retirement. 
• Stephen Warnock: Warnock openly discussed his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts following his retirement, emphasizing the need for mental health support for former athletes.

Involvement in Football Administration

Some former players choose to influence the sport from an administrative perspective, taking on roles that shape club strategies and operations.

Administrative Roles in Football

• Richard Hughes: The ex-Portsmouth midfielder transitioned into football administration, serving as the sporting director for Liverpool FC as of 2024. His role involves overseeing player recruitment and club strategy, utilizing his on-field experience in a managerial capacity.