What Age Is Too Old To Play Soccer (Pro or Rec)

Question from player:

“At what age does a soccer player start being considered old?”

This depends on exactly what you are asking…

How old is too old to go pro in soccer?
What age do soccer players usually retire?
What age is too late to start playing soccer?
What age is too late to play soccer in general?

Just to make sure I answer your question properly, I’ll give you some quick insight into each of these topics based on my personal experience playing, coaching, and also watching professional soccer for over 30 years.

What is the oldest age to become a professional soccer player?

On average most players reach the professional level between the ages of 18 – 23

However, many countries have well-developed professional leagues and players can be bought & sold by professional clubs at even very young ages (9–16 years olds).

It is possible to become a professional soccer player into your later ages but usually 25 is the cut off. Obviously, there are some exceptions of players going pro at 26 – 28 but this case is very rare.

Also, keep in mind there are different levels of professional soccer. You don’t have to play for Manchester United or Barcelona to be considered a pro soccer player. You can play Division 3 Albania and still get paid to play the sport you love.

What age is too old to play professional soccer?

If you’re asking when do pro soccer players start to be considered “old” and when do they usually retire, this questions varies based on position.

Most outfield players will usually play into their mid 30s.

Most retiring between 30 – 35 years old.

Exceptionally well-conditioned and physically fit players who keep their match fitness into their older years will often retire between 35 – 39. But very players are playing top level professional at the age of 40.

However, the oldest recored professional player I believe was a Japanese player who played until the age of 50. Was still in great physical condition but I believe he was also part owner of the club so had some control over coaching decisions and player selection.

Goalkeepers have an older age for retirement.

They will often play into their late 30s and sometimes 40s.

How old is too old to start playing soccer?

You are never too old to start playing soccer. You just might have to adjust your goals.

Don’t expect to become a professional soccer player, if you’ve never kicked a ball before your 18th birthday. But you can still start playing with your friends, local leagues, co-ed soccer, recreational sports.

You might even be surprised at how quickly you improve and start to move up the divisions in your city. It’s never too late to start.

And there are so many personal benefits to playing soccer. You develop your fitness, confidence, make new friends, build connections, and learn valuable life lessons through sport.

What is the oldest age to play soccer?

If you’re asking the simple question of when are you too old to play soccer. In my opinion, the answer is NEVER. You don’t have to play at a high level to enjoy the beautiful game.

You can start playing at any age because there are always leagues available for players of different ages and abilities.

I see many recreational players still kicking the ball in their 50s and 60s. They may not move as fast or play as intense but they are still loving the game.

Also, playing soccer into your later years is great for your physical and mental health. As well as improving the quality of your social life.

If you found this information helpful…

And would like to take the next step towards becoming a better soccer player, download the pre-match success guide and fill out your application for The Online Soccer Academy.

The Next Step

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About The Author

If you don’t know about me…

I used to be a soccer player who struggled with self-confidence. I felt slow, weak, and unmotivated. My coaches didn’t pay much attention to me, my friends laughed at my lack of skills. At one point, I even became so discouraged that I quit the sport altogether.

Enough was enough. I decided to take control of my own development and set out on a journey to become a better soccer player. This path led me on an incredible journey of self-improvement.

I went on to win league and goal-scoring titles, earn awards, lift trophies, and received a college scholarship. I’ve even earned international caps for my country.

I started sharing my knowledge with others and teaching them how to become the best soccer players they could be. My YouTube channel grew to over 500,000 subscribers.

In addition, I coached for several youth clubs in my local city, and even started my own soccer training company. I went on to coach the most prestigious men’s club in my city for several years.

But enough about me, let’s focus on you.

If you’re looking to improve your skills, let’s take your soccer game to the next level. I want to help you make a noticeable change in style of play and overall performance on the field.

I’m passionate about helping players achieve their goals in soccer, and I’d love to be a part of your journey. I can help you reach your goals faster and achieve more in this sport, but I won’t force you. If you’re ready to take the next step, here’s what I suggest you do:

1) Download The Soccer Success Planner (FREE)

2) Apply To The Online Soccer Academy (Limited Spots)

Coach Dylan
Progressive Soccer

Thanks for reading:
What age is too old to play soccer?