The independent and impartial service will utilise the unrivalled expertise and extensive experience of its founding partners to provide personal and professional advice, tailored to the individual player and based on trust, integrity and authentic industry insight.

Player 4 Player will equip players with practical knowledge and support on issues such as career development and transition, commercial and financial advice, business planning, branding and PR, media training, education and legal advice. Across every stage of their footballing lives, this collective will help footballers to develop a sustainable pathway and a smooth transition to a future career.

Developed for players, by players, this unique platform fills a gap in the industry and provides trusted services and credible insight to promote and protect players’ careers.

Stiliyan Petrov, Celtic and Aston Villa legend and Player 4 Player Co-Founder, said:

“We’re delighted to launch Player 4 Player, a service that I wish had been available during my playing career. We will work to guide players throughout their time on the pitch and provide invaluable advice and support as they confront the inevitable ups and downs of a career in professional sport.

“Playing football at the elite level is an incredible and extremely rewarding experience but often players are unprepared for what happens when their playing career comes to an end. Player 4 Player ensures that they can look to the future with confidence.”

Emile Heskey, England and Premier League great and Player 4 Player Co-Founder, said:

“Player 4 Player will provide today’s players with a knowledgeable and trusted resource, based on our own experiences as footballers navigating the end of our careers. Often players are not encouraged to think about their lives after football – we hope we will change this and ease some of the uncertainties and stress that come with career transition.

“As a group we are here to help current and former players navigate the highs and lows of playing and transitioning into their second career. I just wish this was around for me 10 years ago because I know it could have helped me.”

Gaizka Mendieta, Spain and European icon and Player 4 Player Co-founder, said:

“Footballers display commitment and a laser focus to remain at the highest levels of the game on a day-to-day basis. This dedication and drive to succeed can often be all consuming and we are launching Player 4 Player to provide players with the resources and support to achieve success both on and off the pitch.

“Playing football professionally is only one stage of our lives and we all must be prepared for what comes next by laying the foundations as we are playing. As founders we have shared experiences with today’s players and, at heart, Player 4 Player is born out of these.”

To view Player 4 Player group and individual images, footage and video interviews visit: https://bit.ly/37aze2l