Official statistics obtained by i from the Premier League reveal that 97% of former elite academy players aged 21 to 26 failed to make a single Premier League appearance. The analysis covers 4,109 players born between 1 September 1995 and 31 August 2000 who were registered at Category One academies, which include top-tier clubs such as Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.
Of these players, 70% were not offered a professional contract at a Premier League or English Football League club. Only one in ten went on to make more than 20 league appearances in the top four tiers of English football. Fewer than half received a scholarship deal at 16, the typical age for full-time training contracts.
The findings come amid growing concern over the mental health impact on released academy players. Former Manchester City academy player Jeremy Wisten took his own life in 2020 after being released, with an inquest noting he did not receive the 'right support'. Former Fulham academy footballer Max Noble is campaigning for an aftercare system to protect released players.
The Premier League has identified aftercare as a key area in its ongoing review of the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP), launched a decade ago to professionalise academies. However, critics argue the EPPP has turned academies into money-making machines that exploit children. A 2022 ITV News survey found almost three-quarters of released players felt inadequately supported, despite 90% reporting anxiety and depression.
In response, a Football Association spokesperson said: 'The professional leagues and their clubs are primarily responsible for the development and wellbeing of players active in the elite academy system... We work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the highest possible standards are upheld and the welfare of current and former players is prioritised.'
