‘It's a Lifestyle Choice’: The Reality of Work in Men's Professional Football Clubs in the United Kingdom

Working in men's professional football can be viewed as a prestigious and lucrative occupation. In reality, this is only the case for few, with many, such as backroom staff, experiencing high workload, stress and pressure in their roles. This article aims to more adequately assess the reality of working in men's professional football clubs. 51 backroom staff at professional football clubs across the United Kingdom were interviewed, and the data was theorised using a figurational sociological perspective. Working in men's professional football involved accepting challenges, such as excessive working hours, work–life imbalances and difficulties escaping work. The sacrifices required to work in football were accepted as necessary to survive within the industry. Despite roles being characterised by job insecurity, growing role pressures and an increasingly saturated market, participants typically viewed these as a ‘dream job’, as they had turned their passion for football into a career. While some questioned the long-term sustainability of roles in football, the ‘love of the game’ and fantasy-laden beliefs drove motivations to remain. This research helps further clarify the realities of working life in the men's professional football industry.