Some sports enthusiasts have explained some of the challenges faced by children of former footballers trying to follow in their parents’ footsteps in the sport.
They shared their insights and opinions on the matter in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Former international footballer Azuka Izu said one of the major obstacles children of ex-footballers face in emulating their parents’ success is the issue of innate talent.
According to Izu, talent plays a crucial role in a footballer’s career, as it is not something that can be easily replicated, regardless of one’s lineage.
“Many footballers are born with talent, which makes it difficult for their children to replicate their success if they do not possess similar abilities.
“Most children of past footballers lack the talent needed to excel on the field. As a result, they find it very difficult to pursue a career in professional football.
“Interest is another hindrance because some children of ex-footballers do not develop a passion for football, making it difficult for them to follow in their parents’ footsteps.
“Some choose their careers based on their academic interests at school, which later affects their career choices,” he said.
Another football fan, Monday Iremi, said living up to their parents’ legendary status could be daunting, leading to pressure and stress.
He noted that competition in football is fierce, and opportunities may be limited, making it difficult for them to break into the sport.
“Children of past successful footballers may not feel the need to pursue a career in football due to their family’s financial security.
“Additionally, they may face constant comparisons to their parents, which could lead to criticism and negatively impact their confidence.
“They may struggle to establish their own identity and playing style, separate from their parents’.
“However, not all children of former footballers choose to pursue a career in football. Some may prefer to focus on other areas of sport,” he said.
A passionate basketball fan, Andrew Uguru, added that comparison and criticism were also major challenges faced by the children of former footballers.
According to Uguru, every move the offspring make on the pitch is scrutinised and compared to their parents’ performances.
He said: “It’s unfair to judge them solely on their parents’ achievements. They should be given the chance to prove themselves and earn their own recognition.
“The challenges faced by the children of former footballers are real and relatable.
“However, with the right mindset and support, these young players can overcome the pressure, expectations, and comparisons to forge their own successful careers in football.
“As one sports enthusiast aptly put it, ‘It’s time to give them the freedom to write their own story and create their own legacy.’”
Around the world, few children of former international football players have succeeded in outshining their illustrious fathers.
The few shining examples include Peter Schmeichel, the former Manchester United and Danish international goalkeeper.
His son, Kasper Schmeichel, has also played as a goalkeeper at the international level, representing Denmark and playing for clubs like Leicester City.
George Weah, the former Liberian international, is the father of Timothy Weah, who plays for Lille and the United States national team.
David Beckham, the former English international, is the father of Brooklyn Beckham, who has played for Arsenal’s youth team and represented England at the youth level.
Patrick Kluivert, the former Dutch international, is the father of Justin Kluivert, who plays for Roma and the Netherlands national team.
Alessandro Del Piero, the former Italian international, is the father of Tobias Del Piero, who has played for Juventus’s youth team and represented Italy at the youth level.
Frank Lampard, the former English international, is the father of Romeo Lampard, who has played for Chelsea’s youth team.
It’s worth noting that Romeo has not yet reached the same level as his father, just like most of the others.
