Another team says I'd start for them – when is moving actually the right answer?

Question

I've been patient this season and I am getting minutes, but I'm still mostly the substitute. Another local team has asked if I'd be interested and says they need a striker to start regularly. I don't want to leave just because I'm frustrated, but I also don't want to waste a season. What should a 20-year-old player weigh up?

Verified Coach · Accepted Answer

I would compare the two environments rather than simply comparing 'starter' with 'substitute'.

Ask what you are currently getting from your present club: coaching, level of football, training quality, teammates, opportunities and whether your role is actually progressing. Then ask what the other team can genuinely offer beyond saying you will start. Managers can mean that honestly, but circumstances change quickly.

At 20, regular minutes matter, but so does the level and quality of the environment those minutes come in.

You should also speak to your current manager before deciding if you have not already. You may get a clearer picture of how close you are to starting.

Moving because another club fits your development better is different from moving after one frustrating month. Make the decision on where you are likely to improve and enjoy your football, not on a promise that cannot really be guaranteed.

sophie_p · Answer

I'd also ask why they want you. 'We need a striker because ours left' is more believable than 'you'll definitely be our number nine all season'. Details matter.

AnnaH · Answer

At 20 I'd put development and proper minutes ahead of being loyal for the sake of it. Staying somewhere just because leaving feels awkward isn't a great reason either.

GeorgeAgain · Answer

Talk to your current manager before deciding. You don't need to threaten to leave. Just ask honestly how he sees your next few months and whether your role is likely to change.

BexInHove · Answer

If the other team is only selling you 'you'll start every week', I'd be careful. No manager can really guarantee that once form, injuries and new players change things.

ShinpadPocket · Answer

I'd compare the two football situations, not just the promised start. Better training and a higher level might still be worth fighting for where you are. But if you're barely playing and there isn't a clear route, that's different.

Another team says I'd start for them – when is moving actually the right answer?

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