Joaquim Evangelista, President of the Portuguese Players' Union, along with Liga Portugal Ambassadors Nuno Gomes and Tarantini, took part in a panel at the Thinking Football Summit moderated by Susana Feitor, to discuss the challenges athletes face after their playing careers.

The session began with a candid statement from Susana Feitor, former Olympic athlete and current President of the Sports Foundation: "There are two certainties in the life of any athlete: one is that they will end their career, and the other is that they will die." She stressed that the transition from a sports career is difficult for athletes who have become used to routines, competition, and camaraderie built over years, which, when they end, can trigger a "critical phase." Feitor noted that around 40% of former athletes suffer from mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts, according to FIFA studies.

Feitor also highlighted the financial struggles that many athletes face post-career: "Around 60% declare bankruptcy within five years of retiring, and 78% of professional athletes across various sports lack higher education or professional qualifications outside of their sport." She underscored the importance of addressing these concerns, urging action to prepare athletes for life beyond sports.

Nuno Gomes, reflecting on his own experience, agreed that the transition is a significant challenge. "It's a very important issue that has been talked about more recently, and there has been progress in preparing players for this reality," said Gomes. He shared that football was always his childhood dream, and thinking about retirement was difficult. "It was a change from one day to the next, and it had a brutal impact," he said, adding that it was only in the final years of his career that he began preparing for his future, focusing on staying within the football industry.

Tarantini, who has dedicated his post-playing life to education and professional development, emphasized how the landscape has evolved. "About 20 years ago, there was little information on this subject. Today, players are much more aware of the reality and the challenges they may face after their careers end," he said. Having pursued university studies while playing, Tarantini earned a PhD by the end of his career. "Being the only active player in the world to finish a PhD was my Golden Ball. I wanted to set an example and prove it's possible to balance education and a football career."

Joaquim Evangelista commended both Nuno Gomes and Tarantini as excellent role models for players at different stages of career planning. He emphasized the importance of initiatives that support players during this transition, including the ‘Qualifica Programme’ which helps athletes complete their high school education online, as well as partnerships with universities that offer advantageous conditions and scholarships for higher education. Evangelista also highlighted mental health support protocols with the Order of Psychologists, providing assistance to players struggling with anxiety or addiction. Additionally, the Players' Union funds consultations for these issues and offers internship opportunities to help unemployed former players re-enter the workforce.

"We need to shake up the players. Enough with the comfort zone," Evangelista concluded, challenging athletes to take action and prepare for the future while they still have the chance.