Pathway · Lateral move
Top-Flight Professional Player to Pundit / Analyst (Media)
How to move from Top-Flight Professional Player to Pundit / Analyst (Media): what to learn, what to prove and what formal steps, if any, are needed.
Qualification check for Pundit / Analyst (Media)
Not needed
No qualification is needed for the new role. Evidence of results, reputation and relationships decide this move. No qualification is required. Credibility from playing, coaching or analysis, plus communication skill, drives hiring.
1 to 3 yearstypical timeline
2new skills to build
0qualifications to consider
-81%mid-point UK pay change, illustrative
The move at a glance
Top-Flight Professional Player
A full-time player in a top division or international squad.
Pundit / Analyst (Media)
Offers expert opinion and analysis on television, radio and online.
Skills and knowledge to build
Experience and routes that help
Qualifications to consider
No additional qualification is typically required. Experience and a track record matter most.
Tools to learn
What the new role asks of you
- Analyse matches and tactics for audiences
- Prepare clips and talking points
- Maintain a public profile
Practical steps
- Ask for a small piece of the new role's work before you apply, for example one of the tasks above.
- Close the top gap first: Broadcasting & Presenting.
- Keep a record of two results that show you working at the next level.
- Talk to three people who do the job. Ask how they got in, and who they would recommend you speak to.