News

The PFA and the English Football League (EFL) have launched the Off-Pitch Pathway Scheme (OPPS) – a new initiative designed to help former players and scholars move into meaningful, long-term careers away from the pitch.

Delivered by League Football Education (LFE), OPPS is a programme jointly funded by the PFA and EFL that will create will fund up to nine 12-month placements across EFL clubs during the 2025/26 season. Each club can apply for a £25,000 funded role, with placements offering workplace experience across a range of non-coaching departments.

With an investment of £225,000 by the PFA and EFL, OPPS aims to increase the number of PFA members transitioning into roles such as finance, administration, commercial, communications, operations, and analysis, keeping valuable football knowledge and experience within the professional game.

PFA CEO, Maheta Molango said: “This scheme gives our members a genuine opportunity to stay in the game and build new careers beyond the pitch. For many former players, the transition out of football can be difficult, but OPPS creates a structured and supported route into roles where their experience adds real value. Working in partnership with the EFL and LFE, we’re committed to ensuring that players have every chance to continue contributing to the professional game in meaningful ways.”

EFL Chief Executive, Trevor Birch said: “The Off-Pitch Pathway Scheme is an important step in creating further career opportunities for former players who have developed essential skills and knowledge throughout their academy journey. This initiative, in collaboration with the PFA and LFE, underscores our collective commitment to the continued personal development of our young players while providing our Clubs with access to off-pitch talent who have gained a unique perspective through their own individual pathway.

“Reflecting on my own journey from player to CEO, I know the transition can be challenging, but the transferrable skills, knowledge and experience our graduates develop are an asset for many roles across the football industry and beyond.”

The scheme is open to all PFA members. Candidates can apply for their placement at any participating EFL clubs and will receive structured support, training, and development throughout the year. PFA members can register their interest now to receive updates as and when opportunities go live. 

For more information about OPPS, please contact the PFA Personal Development team on personaldevelopment@thepfa.com