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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport

Premier League is committed to the care and support of young players

Crystal Palace U21 v Chelsea U21, Premier League 2, Football, VBS Community Stadium, Sutton, UK - 02 May 2025 Photo by ALAN STANFORD/PPAUK/Shutterstock
An under-21 match between Crystal Palace and Chelsea in May. ‘While not all players progress into the professional game, the system is designed to ensure that every young person has a meaningful, life-enriching experience.’ Photograph: Alan Stanford/PPAUK/Shutterstock

The Premier League introduced the elite player performance plan (EPPP) in 2012 to modernise and professionalise youth development in English football. Since then, the education, care and support provided to young players, both within academies and beyond, has evolved significantly (Letters, 7 January).

The Premier League, clubs and selected partners work collaboratively to support players from under-nine level through to the first team, with a strong focus on mental health and wellbeing.

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