Critical Thinking as a Defense Against Exploitation: Preparing Young Footballers for Life Beyond the Game

  • Author(s) / Creator(s)
  • This work examines the intersection of critical thinking, football, and neocolonial exploitation, focusing on challenges faced by young footballers from marginalized communities. Drawing on Critical Race Theory (CRT) it argues that critical thinking empowers players to resist systemic exploitation. The global football economy commodifies young talents, particularly from Africa, perpetuating neocolonial dynamics. While football academies, agents and scouts offer opportunities, they often prioritize athletic performance over holistic development. This study proposes a multi-disciplinary framework integrating critical thinking, financial literacy, ethics, and cultural awareness. It emphasizes culturally responsive mentorship and partnerships with
    governments, NGOs, academies, and clubs to promote systemic change. By fostering critical thinking and self-awareness, the framework aims to empower young footballers to resist exploitation, assert their identities, and advocate for a more equitable football ecosystem.

  • Date created
    2025-04-01
  • Subjects / Keywords
  • Type of Item
    Research Material
  • DOI
    https://doi.org/10.7939/r3-zt3c-em25
  • License
    Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International