From Awoniyi to Azpilicueta: Footballers studying to become sporting directors

Professional footballers are increasingly turning to education to prepare for careers in football management, coaching, and sporting direction, as seen at the 2026 graduation ceremony of the PFA Business School held at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium. The ceremony celebrated graduates who completed qualifications alongside their playing careers, including Everton midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Coventry City striker Taiwo Awoniyi, and former Chelsea and Spain captain César Azpilicueta.

Dewsbury-Hall, 28, completed a postgraduate diploma in global football sport directorship, while Awoniyi, 29, earned his third academic achievement with the PFA qualification, which was his father's dream of prioritizing education. Azpilicueta, who studied before turning professional and later earned an MBA from Harvard, emphasized that education has helped him become a better version of himself both on and off the pitch.

The PFA Business School programme allows players to study alongside their professional commitments, with seminars scheduled to minimize clashes with training and matches, providing an opportunity for footballers to develop themselves during their careers.