Dual Career Exchange in London: Learning from Arsenal and Crystal Palace

Gaining practical insight into Dual Career support in Premier League academies

As part of the EDU-DC – EDUcation for Dual Careers of football talents project, partners recently took part in a Dual Career exchange visit hosted by two leading Premier League academies: Arsenal FC and Crystal Palace FC. The visit offered valuable insight into how top-tier English clubs support young players in balancing football, education and personal development. 

Across both academies, staff emphasised the importance of structured support systems, including roles such as the Head of Education and Head of Player Care — positions required at Premier League Category 1 level. While each club applies this framework in its own way, both place strong focus on safeguarding, wellbeing and preparing players for the many transitions they face throughout their football journey. 

These transitions include entering the academy, progressing through age groups, and eventually moving within or beyond the club. Arsenal and Crystal Palace invest heavily in proactive guidance to help players navigate these key moments with confidence. 

The visit concluded with a match between Crystal Palace and EDU-DC pilot club AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park, offering a live context and a memorable football atmosphere. 

The examples and experiences gathered in London will contribute directly to the continued development of the EDU-DC project, helping us strengthen Dual Career pathways across Europe.