How does a footballer stay ready without a club?
A footballer without a club stays ready by training as if in pre-season, with running, strength and ball work most days, and playing matches wherever possible. Keep your profile, video and documents up to date so you can sign at short notice, and keep applying, because many free agents sign after the window shuts.
FTBL Exchange researchPublished 2 min read
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Stay fit
- Train most days: running, sprints, strength, and work with the ball.
- Train with a club, an academy or a group if you can. Ask a local club whether you can train with them.
- Play matches. Match fitness is what clubs test first.
- Keep a record of your training, so you can show a club you kept going.
Stay visible
- Keep your Transfermarkt profile accurate, and your contract status showing as free.
- Update your highlights video with your last season.
- Tell your contacts you are available, and what you are looking for.
- Apply to requests from clubs that need your position.
Be ready to sign
- Have your passport, proof your last contract ended, and medical records ready.
- Know your minimum wage, net or gross.
- Free agents can often be registered after the window shuts, so do not stop looking when it closes.
Free for players, agents and clubs
You should not need an agent to be seen.
Paste your Transfermarkt link and a highlights video. Once a person approves it, your profile builds itself, and you can apply to open requests.
Register free as a playerAlready registered? Sign in
Questions people also ask
How long can a player be without a club?
There is no limit, but the longer you go without matches, the harder it is to convince a club. Keep training and playing.
Can I train with a club without signing?
Often, with the club's agreement. It is a good way to stay fit and be seen.