How to Become a Professional Soccer Player At 16?

The beautiful game of soccer is one that many a young talent pin dreams of, and it does not get any better than signing a professional contract at 16. This is a promising age; many famous players have begun their careers at this age and could become legends. In this stage, not just exclusive refinement of skills but brand oneself as a great soccer icon.

You can read the full blog more about the recommendations and other details on Career Boosters.

Is 16 Too Late to Start Playing Soccer?

You can still play football at this age, and it’s not too late. You can still join various levels, including Club, Academy, school, and College. Below, you can read about each level to understand the benefits of playing there and what you can learn from these levels.

School Level

At the school level, playing soccer is a phase when we aren’t mature. Many people start their journey in soccer without knowing much about the game. They don’t even know how to kick a ball or pass properly when they begin playing. 

They just play and run around for fun until they’re exhausted. They don’t feel the cold or the heat while playing. This is how the soccer journey begins, and their passion for the game grows over time.

College Level

At this level, many people have played football during school, so they know how to play it since they matured. College life usually begins around the age of 16, and it’s here that real enthusiasm and passion develop in people as they consider whether they can become professionals. 

Many continue this journey, practicing consistently to become skilled and capable players.

Academy Level

In academy life, you meet coaches, captains, and many senior players from whom you can properly learn things. 

The academy is filled with professional players; many establish academies after retirement to pass on their skills. It’s one of the best places to learn, as you can understand and master various aspects of the game.

Club Level

Proper games and matches occur at the club level, where players can truly assess whether they have the potential to move forward. Players can identify their weaknesses during matches, games, and practice sessions. 

Many players work hard to improve these weaknesses, while some lose hope and give up on their soccer journey. 

As Cristiano Ronaldo wisely said, “Talent without working hard is nothing.“

Improve Your Chances of Becoming a Professional Soccer Player

Training & Skill Development

You should also work on improving your skills through constant training. You can join a local club or academy for the best fitness, practice, and competition.

You will become more strategic when you embark on popular, increasing your overall skill.

Fitness

Strength exercise is good for your body and physical health. You must concentrate on exercises that improve your endurance, speed, and strength to improve your soccer performance.

Compete Regularly

As much as you can, try to get into as many practices as possible playing with your school teams, clubs, actual leagues, etc. Competition should be scheduled in place and formally as often as possible since it provides you with experience, skills, and pressure.

The more practice you get in playing, the more confident you will feel and the better you will be.

Networking

Develop relationships with coaches, players, and scouts in the soccer fraternity. Go to games, training sessions, and events to meet people who will help you open the doors to your desired sphere.

Building relationships will create avenues for trials, recommendations, or even mentorship, which can greatly transform your soccer life.

Mental Resilience

Train your attitude about the idea that there will be both fun and boring days for soccer. It is important to have a positive attitude and stay on task during stress or after a blow.

Armed with mental strength, you are marshaled to soldier it out when facing obstacles, stand to be corrected when you fail, and, most importantly, persevere in attaining your goals.

Education

Improve their understanding of soccer by reading books, watching tutorials, and learning about the tactics.

Dozens of methods can be applied during the game, and you may make correct decisions using the information about the technical-tactical specialties of the game.