Snakes and Ladders - Ali's Words
Ali El Jishi
Sporting Director | Football Recruiter | Founder - TFA Dubai | 30k+ Global Football Network | Always Open?for?Business
I am always drawn back to the image of snakes and ladders. We were close to signing a talented goalkeeper, and I shared the same wisdom with him; 'your career in football is a game of snakes and ladders. A few right steps and you find yourself on the top. One misstep and you will find yourself at the start.'
Obviously, a 19-year-old player is aiming to go to the top, and his/her motivation and talent are at their peak too, but which box you stand at depends a lot on who is giving you advice and why. A player must understand the business of football to have a clear view of the intentions of every advisor. A mindful coach and team will pick ladders you can hike on and grow with, whether they are small games in small countries or big games, as long as you are on the path to the final goal. However, there is no dearth of agents that will secure a fee and let you hop over the slippery slopes alone. Football, like life, does not come with a guarantee of success. I have seen dedicated players slide from 99 to 1 because of small, avoidable issues like injuries, sleep, diet, etc. Needless to say, there have been dozens and dozens who slipped long before they reached high because of bad guidance and unsustainable habits.
Make sure you ask the right questions, make sound decisions and seek referrals before you hand over the reins of your future because it only takes one wrong move.
Right forward winger at Rivers United Feeders
2 年I wish I can get a chance ( I mean just a chance) to attend a scout program or play for any football club outside my country (Nigeria).
Head of Talent Acquisition
2 年Being well surrounded is very important. 100% right. When it comes to decision making for your career, only you know which way you should go. A real mentor only guides you. He/she doesn't make the decision for you. There is a fine line between trust and self reflection. He/she is here to help you think the right way and ask yourself the right questions. It's always a combinaison of factors and the "obvious" is not always your best friend. Picking up the right team shouldn't be an underestimated criteria, especially in the early days of a career. That's how you really grow as a professional. Being well surrounded is priceless Decision making is an art.
Coach at Irchad chhim football club
2 年Very good article Mr.Ali. I would like to add that even in your life, as a footballer, you need luck, not just good choices. The ones who make it need some luck with their choices. No one want to be injured, it will hapen to anybody even to a professional footballer. But the most important is to be in the right way and your luck will come for sure.