How has the number of South Asian footballers in England changed?

The number of South Asian professional footballers in England has nearly doubled since the 2021-22 season, reaching 28 players last season compared to 16 five years ago.

What challenges do South Asian footballers face in England?

South Asian footballers face challenges including tired myths, cultural expectations, and a lack of infrastructure, as well as historical issues with access to training and transportation.

What initiatives are supporting South Asian footballers?

The Asian Inclusion Mentoring Scheme (AIMS) provides support, mentorship, and workshops to Asian footballers on the elite pathway, aiming to help them succeed in the game.

Home / Sports / South Asian Footballers Surge: FA Strategy Yields Results

South Asian Footballers Surge: FA Strategy Yields Results

24 Jan

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Summary

South Asian players in England nearly doubled since 2021-22.
Despite growth, they represent just over 1% of elite players.
Tired myths and cultural expectations hinder progress.

South Asian Footballers Surge: FA Strategy Yields Results

The presence of South Asian men in English professional football has seen a significant increase, nearly doubling since the 2021-22 season following the Football Association's (FA) participation strategy. Last season, 28 South Asian players competed at an elite level, up from 16 five years prior. Despite this growth, they represent just over 1% of all elite players.

While interest is high within South Asian communities, with substantial participation across all levels, several barriers impede breakthroughs to the top. Players and experts cite outdated myths, cultural expectations, and a lack of adequate infrastructure as key reasons. Historical issues like limited access to training facilities and transportation have also played a role.

Initiatives like the Asian Inclusion Mentoring Scheme (AIMS), co-founded by former player Zesh Rehman, aim to provide support and mentorship to Asian footballers. This program offers workshops and guidance to players on the elite pathway, addressing the challenges that many, including Rehman himself, faced. Malvind Singh Benning, a participant and now a mentor, noted the vast difference in representation during his career.