Chiellini Cautions Footballers To Plan Retirement

By Joshua Walters

Giorgio Chiellini has cautioned footballers to prepare for life after football, saying many former footballers have become destitute for failing to plan their retirement.

The Juventus defender holds a degree in economics and commerce, and masters in business administration, but says he will remain in the sport due to his passion for the game.

However, the 34-year-old Italian stalwart insists there is the need for active footballers to invest in their retirement as not everyone can find a job in the sport after retiring.

"I would like to stay in football because it is my greatest passion, perhaps with a 'desk' job rather than a job in coaching," says Chiellini to  FIFPRO.

"Only a few footballers manage to find a job in football when they stop playing. There's also the risk of depression."

"And there are many former players with financial problems because they have not thought about life after football, they have not opened their minds by studying."