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Writer's pictureAlan Deriard

The ONLY 2 Football Pathways to Pro (Amateur Only)

Updated: Aug 23


Alan Deriard standing with arms crossed in front of a graphic showing pathways to go pro in football, with signs pointing to big clubs and small clubs.

If you've ever wondered what going pro might look like, especially as an amateur player trialing overseas in Europe with professional clubs, this is for you. I'll be discussing the ONLY two real pathways for you. For those of you who don't know me, my name is Alan Deriard. I am a full-time football agent and the founder of Australia's largest player agency, Elite Football. We work with over 25 professional clubs across Europe, South America, and the Middle East. This year alone, we've signed four players to professional contracts and scholarships with pro clubs.


The Two Pathways

 Alan Deriard talking to a young football player on the field, providing advice and guidance on how to become a professional footballer.

So, every player who comes to me wants Football pathways to go pro, but there are usually two conditions they bring up.


First, most players want to go as high as possible. It’s rare for someone to say they want to be as realistic as possible from the start. These two categories separate based on different conditions, and if you’re unsure, you can always chat with myself or one of the other agents in my company. We offer free consultations to answer all your questions.


Here are the two pathways:

  1. Going as High as Possible

  2. Being as Realistic as Possible


I'll explain these pathways and how they apply differently based on age—whether you’re 15-18 or 18-23—since the experience will differ for each age group.


Pathway 1: Going as High as Possible


Division 1 and Division 2 Clubs

These clubs have huge setups, are well-run, and are very big with a lot of money and foundation. Regardless of age, you’ll have a good experience because everything is set up properly.


For 17 and Younger:

  • You land on day one and start with the club’s international section, where players from all over the world come for trials and development.

  • Your aim is to perform well enough to be invited to train with the youth team.

  • In Spain, youth finishes at under-19. If you’re 18, you’re considered a third-year youth player. Clubs want 18-year-olds to be good enough for their senior squads.


For 18 and Over:

  • Your pathway is similar, starting in the international area.

  • You aim to get into the C team. If not good enough for the C team, clubs may sign you and loan you to a sister club in a lower division.

  • The goal is to prove yourself in the sister club and then move up to the C team and beyond.


Pathway 2: Being as Realistic as Possible


Division 3, 4, and 5 Clubs

This pathway is suitable if you’re older, have limited time or money, or want to minimize risk. These clubs don’t have the luxury of an international area.


For 17 and Younger:

  • You go straight into their under-19s to train. If you perform well, you get signed.

  • The risk is getting kicked out after a week or even a session if you’re not good enough.


For 18 and Over:

  • You aim for the first team, but trials are difficult since these clubs prefer established players.

  • With the help of an agent, you might get into the under-19s and get some training with the first team to gauge your level.


Alan Deriard walking on a football field with Real Oviedo scout and young football player, discussing training and pathways to go pro.

Pathways to Becoming a PRO Footballer


For those 17 and younger, I recommend aiming as high as possible. For those 18 and over, be as realistic as possible.



However, every player is different. Your position, the time of year you’re going overseas, and personal preferences play significant roles.


Consultation and Evaluation


Understanding your risk tolerance and goals is crucial. For example, if you get a scholarship with a fourth division team, will you feel successful, or will you wish you tried for a higher division? Evaluating this will help you decide which pathway to choose.


If you’re interested in discussing your options further, feel free to book a free consultation with one of our agents. We'll help you understand what pathway might be best for you and answer all your questions.


Keep pushing forward, stay focused, and pursue your dream of going pro in football.




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