What Are Amateur Football Contracts and How Do They Work?
This blog will discuss what amateur footballers can expect when transitioning to professional football, focusing on their first contract. This is specifically for amateur players looking to break into professional clubs, not the top-tier stars. I'll also explain the differences between a professional contract and a scholarship, particularly for those trialling with clubs overseas.
For those unfamiliar with me, I’m Alan Deriard, a full-time football agent and founder of Elite Football, Australia’s largest player agency. We work with over 25 professional football clubs across Europe, South America, and the UAE, helping hundreds of amateur footballers secure representation and leap to professional football.
What to Expect in Your First Professional Football Contract
When moving from amateur football to a professional club overseas, you’ll usually encounter two options:
A Professional Contract
A Scholarship
Both involve investment from the club but differ in terms and expectations.
1. The Professional Contract
As an amateur footballer joining a professional club, expect the club to cover basic needs, including:
Food
Accommodation
Transport to and from training and matches
Registration fees
Visa fees
A professional football contract will typically handle these expenses, especially since you’re relocating. Players often stay in club-owned residencies or apartments provided by the club.
While some players may also receive a wage, it’s crucial not to expect a salary immediately, especially as an amateur footballer. The fact that the club covers all your costs is a significant step forward in your football journey.
For players over 16, you might get a small wage—“pocket money”—ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars monthly. For players under 16, expect the club to focus on covering their expenses rather than paying a salary.
2. The Scholarship
A scholarship is another option, particularly for younger or borderline players. Scholarships may cover only football-related expenses such as training, transport, and registration, leaving you or your family to manage other costs like food and accommodation.
Clubs often use scholarships to assess a player’s potential over an extended period before offering an entire professional contract. This allows clubs to see how well they perform and adjust to their league before making further investments.
Managing Expectations as an Amateur Footballer
It’s essential to keep realistic expectations. Your first professional football contract won’t be a multi-million dollar deal. Instead, think of it as a stepping stone toward future opportunities.
For players from countries like Australia, securing a contract with a professional football club abroad is a huge milestone.
Even if the contract doesn’t include a wage, the fact that a club invests in your football development is significant. Few young players immediately earn big money—most need to prove themselves before landing larger contracts.
Lower Division Clubs and Different Opportunities
Players trialling with lower division clubs, such as those in the third, fourth, or fifth divisions, might experience different terms. These clubs may offer a small wage but not cover all expenses, such as food or accommodation.
In some cases, clubs will offer a combination of covering partial costs and a modest salary, especially for older players competing for a spot on the first team.
Whether you secure a professional football contract or a scholarship, the most crucial factor is that a club is willing to invest in you. Your first contract is rarely your dream contract, but it’s a critical step forward.
You can build your career, climb the ranks, and eventually land more lucrative deals from here.
If you found this blog insightful, consider sharing it with a friend or liking it for more tips. It’s free, and you can always change your mind later!
Want to Secure Your First Professional Football Contract?
If you're an amateur footballer looking to go pro, Elite Football is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation and start your journey to signing with top clubs across Europe, South America, and the UAE.
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