Over the last decade-plus, the magic number for footballers nearing retirement has been 30-years-old. Although there are always exceptions, after 30 is when many players begin winding down their careers. This either means they play fewer minutes for their current club or move onto teams and/or leagues in which the strain isn’t as high. But the question remains, why do many footballers retire in their 30s?

Prior to the turn of the millennium, the pace of the game was much slower. There were fewer obligations during the regular season. There was a little more time during the week for players to rest between matches. Nowadays, footballers retire early because they do not have the time at the highest level as in the past.

Why do many footballers retire in their 30s?

Compare the Premier League with the likes of leagues in Asia or North America, which welcome players who have played at the highest level in Europe. The leagues in Asia and North America do not offer the demands on players like in Europe. Players have more time between fixtures, less pressure from the media and fans, and fewer footballing responsibilities. The same goes for players over 30 competing in lower league football in England and other countries in Europe.

The demand for players over the age of 30 isn’t the only reason for footballers retiring. Along with age, a football loses speed and strength. Typically, it is difficult for an older player to keep up with the pace of younger players. Stamina and strength can also be lost by players as they get older. 

One of the significant problems that players over the age of 30 experience are injuries. As they grow older, players are more susceptible to struggle with muscle injuries. Knee injuries are a common issue footballers experience and older players may rupture an ACL more easily than younger players. Rehab and recovery can take much longer and force footballers retire from the game.

Older footballers could be a thing of the future, however. With new training techniques and better self-care amongst footballers, we could see more players over 30 and nearing 40 competing at the highest level.