Emmanuel Akintewe, a Nigerian ex-professional goalkeeper, enjoyed a notable career during his six-year sojourn in Georgia. Now based in Manchester, United Kingdom, Akintewe’s journey to professional football was fraught with challenges, including a lack of support from his parents and guardians. As a child, Akintewe faced frequent punishment from his parents whenever he played football. Despite these obstacles, his unwavering passion for the game propelled him forward. Eventually, his father became a crucial supporter, ensuring he had the time he needed to pursue his dreams.
In stark contrast, Akintewe’s mother harbored hopes of him becoming a doctor. Reflecting on his the turn of his life, Akintewe believes that the lack of consistent support and guidance from his guardians impacted his career trajectory. He feels that with their advice, he might have been able to balance football with formal education or a trade, giving him a better plan for life after football.
Despite the adversity, Akintewe’s resolve remained unshaken. “Where your treasure is, there lies your heart,” he often says, illustrating his determination to find joy on the pitch, no matter the cost. His journey from a street hawker, reminiscent of Victor Osimhen’s story, to a professional footballer is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. Discipline, he asserts, is a key to success not just in football, but in life.
Akintewe began his football journey with Super Star FC, a boys’ club that trained at Railway Field in Ibadan, until the untimely death of their coach. He then joined Eagle Babes FA and later New System FA. A pivotal moment in his career came when he went for a trial at Talented Football Academy, where he was scouted for a trial in Georgia. Despite failing the first trial, he secured a second opportunity, where he performed well and was offered his first professional contract, leading to stints with Sparta FC and Mark Star FC.
Unfortunately, recurrent injuries forced Akintewe into early retirement. Returning to Nigeria, he initially struggled, squandering much of his earnings due to a lack of a post-playing career plan. However, he eventually decided to get his life back on track, securing a job as an academy coach. This role marked the beginning of his second career, where he successfully coached his own team and facilitated scouting opportunities for his players. Two of his mentees have since gone on to play professional football.
Now, Akintewe is focused on building a career in talent management. Working assiduously towards this goal, he hopes to leverage his experiences and insights to guide the next generation of football talent, ensuring they have the support and planning he once lacked. His story is a powerful example of resilience and the importance of discipline in achieving success, both on and off the field.
Emmanuel Akintewe’s experiences underscore the critical need for footballers to have plans for their post-playing days. The career span of a professional athlete is often short, and unforeseen circumstances such as injuries can cut it even shorter. His journey highlights several vital reasons why having a transition plan is essential.
First, financial stability is a primary concern for many retired athletes. Without a clear plan for the future, players risk financial instability once their playing days are over. Akintewe’s story exemplifies this risk; after his premature retirement, he squandered much of his earnings due to a lack of foresight and planning. A sound transition strategy can help athletes manage their finances better and invest wisely for long-term security, ensuring they maintain their standard of living.
Additionally, planning for life after football allows players to identify and develop other skills and interests. This not only prepares them for a second career but also enhances their personal growth and satisfaction. Akintewe’s eventual move into coaching and talent management illustrates how finding a new passion can lead to a fulfilling second career. By preparing for life beyond football, players can ensure they remain engaged and productive, leveraging their unique experiences and insights in new ways.
Moreover, many retired athletes have valuable insights and experiences that can benefit the sport in various roles such as coaching, punditry, or talent management. Transitioning into these areas ensures that their expertise continues to contribute to football. Akintewe’s current focus on talent management showcases how former players can shape the future of the sport by nurturing the next generation of talent.
Finally, without preparation, retired players may fall into pitfalls such as poor financial decisions or lack of meaningful engagement. A well-thought-out plan helps avoid these risks by providing clear steps and goals. Akintewe’s journey from financial instability to a structured career in coaching highlights the importance of having a roadmap for the future.
By focusing on these aspects, players can ensure a smoother transition from active sports to a fulfilling post-playing career. Emmanuel Akintewe’s journey from a professional goalkeeper to an aspiring talent manager exemplifies the importance of planning and resilience in navigating life after football. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and preparation, the end of a playing career can be the beginning of a new, rewarding chapter.
