Arsène Wenger, the legendary former Arsenal manager and now FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, has spoken several times about how elite footballers today are starting younger compared to previous generations. 🗣️ On Players Starting Younger: Wenger has noted that modern elite footballers are entering top-level football earlier than in the past, often by the age of 17 or 18, whereas in previous generations, players typically peaked or broke through later — often in their early 20s. “The age at which players start their professional careers is getting younger,” Wenger said in a FIFA technical report. “Young players are better prepared technically, physically and tactically due to improvements in youth development systems.” 🧠 Why This Is Happening: • Improved Youth Academies – Clubs now have more structured and data-driven training from a young age. • Advanced Physical Preparation – Players are fitter and stronger earlier due to better sports science. • Tactical Educati...