A recent study commissioned by the Black Footballers Partnership (BFP) has revealed alarming disparities in the representation of black players in managerial roles within the Premier League. The report, conducted by three academics and analyzing the off-the-pitch careers of former footballers from 1990 to 2010, found that black players were 50% less likely to transition into management compared to their non-black counterparts.
Despite making up 25% of Uefa-issued coaching qualifications, black players accounted for only 4% of managerial positions in 2022 and 2023. Delroy Corinaldi, executive director of BFP, lamented the lack of opportunities for black players in football management, stating that their progress is often hindered by systemic barriers.
The study also highlighted several key findings, including the fact that black managers are 41% more likely to be fired compared to white managers, even when performance levels are equal. Additionally, black former players on average accumulate only half the managerial experience of their non-black counterparts.
The report’s publication coincides with the UK government’s announcement of an independent football regulator, prompting calls from former professionals and BFP for greater diversity and inclusivity objectives in the Football Governance Bill. This push for change aims to address the discrimination and racial biases that black footballers face in their career progression.
As the footballing community grapples with these findings, there is a growing recognition of the need to collaborate with organizations like BFP to create a more equitable playing field for black players. The report serves as a call to action for the industry to prioritize racial equity and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to succeed in football management, regardless of their background.