Being released from a football club is one of the toughest moments a young player can face. For some, it can lead to new opportunities.
For others, it can feel like a huge setback. It’s normal for this time to be confusing and emotional.
Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold launched The After Academy, a programme designed to support young players who have been released.
Clubs, organisations and families are now recognising how difficult this transition can be.
Here are the most common reason why a player might be released and why it isn’t always a reflection of their talent or potential.
Ability Levels
Sometimes the club feels a player’s technical skills aren’t developing fast enough for the level they’re playing at. This doesn’t mean the player isn’t good — it simply means the club has decided to go in another direction.
Physical Development
Football can be a very physical sport. If a player isn’t growing or gaining strength at the pace the academy expects, coaches might choose others who seem more physically ready. Many late developers still go on to become excellent players.
Injuries
Frequent or long-term injuries can slow down progress. If a player misses too much training or match time, it can be harder to keep up with the group.
Attitude and Behaviour
Work rate, discipline, and mindset are huge factors in football. Players who show poor attitude, lack effort, or disrupt the group may be let go for the sake of team culture.
Emotional or Mental Challenges
Academy life is demanding. Some players feel overwhelmed by pressure, strict routines, or living away from home. If this affects their performance or development, clubs may decide not to continue with them.
Strong Competition
There are only so many spots in an academy. When new players arrive — sometimes more advanced or more suited to the club’s style — others may be pushed out, even if they’ve worked hard.
Financial Reasons
Clubs, especially smaller ones, sometimes need to cut costs. This may lead to releasing players even if coaches believe they have potential.
Coach’s Preference
Different coaches prefer different styles of players. A new coach might want a different type of full-back or striker, and a player who once fit perfectly may no longer fit the system.
Tactical or Position Changes
Sometimes a club changes its playing style or prioritises certain positions. If a player’s role is no longer needed or competition in that position increases, they may be released.
Off-Field Issues
Lifestyle choices, poor time management, or lack of commitment away from the pitch can influence a coach’s decision. Professional clubs expect high standards both on and off the field.
Limited Pathway to the First Team
At some clubs, the path to senior football is blocked by established professionals. If a young player isn’t likely to break into the first team, the club may release them so they can find more realistic opportunities elsewhere.
Being released doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It simply marks the beginning of a new chapter.
What You Can Control
Even though being released hurts, there are many things’ players can do to move forward:
- Stay positive. It’s okay to be upset — but don’t let this be the end of your journey.
- Reflect on your experience. Think about what went well and what you want to improve.
- Set new goals. Decide which clubs to target or what part of your game to work on.
- Keep training. Stay fit so you’re ready for any opportunity.
- Balance your life. Spend time with friends and family. Have interests outside football.
What It Feels Like to Be Released
Many players spend years training with a club, dreaming of becoming professionals. Then one day, they are told they won’t be kept on.
This can be shocking and overwhelming.
Players who move from a top-level academy to a lower-level club may find the change hard — fewer facilities, different routines, and less support.
Some players use this setback as motivation to work even harder.
Others may struggle mentally, and sadly, there have been rare cases where players have harmed themselves because of the pressure and disappointment.
This is why staying positive, asking for help, and having the right support is so important.
Support Available for Released Players
Not all clubs offer the same help, but many now understand that players need guidance during this difficult time.
Support from Clubs
Some clubs offer:
- Help finding a new club
- Access to trials
- Use of their facilities whilst in transition
- Counselling or emotional support
- Medical help if player was injured
- Educational options abroad
Crystal Palace became the first academy to introduce a full aftercare programme to help released players build a career outside football.
Norwich City also launched an academy alumni programme in 2025 to support young players from ages 9 to 21.
Support from the FA and Governing Bodies
The FA and other organisations offer:
- Career advice
- Education opportunities
- Access to programmes that help players stay in the game
League Football Education (LFE) supports released players for up to three years. Many have gone on to new careers — like becoming pilots, NHS workers, firefighters, and more. LFE also provides chances to play abroad, especially in Sweden.
Independent Training Centres
Independent academies give released players extra training to stay sharp and earn new trials.
Education and Vocational Support
Some organisations help players gain academic qualifications or job skills.
UEFA For Players offers free online learning that covers life on and off the pitch.
As Lewis Simmons said after being released:
“Just because I had a setback, it didn’t mean football was over.”
Player Intermediaries and Scouts
Agents and scouts can help players find new clubs and opportunities using their contacts in the game.
Exit Trials
Assessment Trials also known as ‘Exit Trials’ allow released players to show their talent in front of scouts and coaches from many clubs.
This is organised by the LFE and encompasses the following:
Football Showcases:
Players take part in matches watched by scouts and coaches. The games are usually filmed and shared, and players can access highlight clips afterward.
Career and Education Support:
Alongside the football, players join classroom workshops on writing CVs, exploring new careers, apprenticeships, and further education. These are often run with help from groups like the PFA and Skills Development Scotland.
Networking Opportunities:
Employers and universities attend the events, giving players a chance to speak with them directly and explore jobs or study options.
Other Pathways
Players might:
- Join a club they were previously loaned to
- Take a scholarship abroad
- Return to grassroots football
- Move into a different job in football such as analysis, physiotherapy, or coaching
Support will vary based on the player’s age, ability, and location, so parents play a big role in exploring what’s available.
