An increasing number of England's top footballers are choosing to play outside the Premier League. Players such as Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Anthony Gordon have become key figures for England despite pursuing their club careers abroad. Kane plays for Bayern Munich in Germany, Bellingham represents Real Madrid in Spain, while Gordon has joined Barcelona. This growing trend has also been reflected in England's national team, with seven players in the initial 25-man squad playing their club football outside the country.
Football Association technical director John McDermott described the development as a positive for English football. He said exposure to different leagues and football cultures could improve players' overall development. According to McDermott, playing abroad gives footballers opportunities to experience different tactical approaches while also allowing them more time to work on their physical conditioning and technical abilities. He also highlighted the personal benefits of moving abroad, including learning new languages, adapting to different environments, and developing independence.
McDermott added that players competing in European competitions could benefit from having fewer domestic fixtures than those playing in England's demanding football calendar. He said such experiences can help players become more technically and tactically accomplished while broadening their understanding of the game. England manager Thomas Tuchel has also welcomed the contributions of players based abroad, particularly Kane, Bellingham, and Gordon, whose performances have been influential for the national team.
Tuchel said there was no reason the trio could not continue playing decisive roles for England, while stressing that Premier League-based players also had the ability to make significant contributions. Gordon, who moved to Barcelona, said he felt his footballing qualities were receiving greater recognition since joining the Spanish giants. The winger argued that while he was previously appreciated in England for his pace and pressing ability, his technical quality and football intelligence were now attracting more attention.
Gordon has impressed at Barcelona, recording three goals and five assists in 15 appearances across all competitions. England captain Kane also praised Gordon, saying the winger was demonstrating that he belonged at the highest level with both Barcelona and the national team. Leeds United striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin equally welcomed the growing presence of English players at major European clubs, saying their experiences abroad could benefit the national team.
However, McDermott stressed that playing abroad was not the only route to development, noting that footballers could also improve significantly while playing in England. He cited the experiences of Jarell Quansah and Jobe Bellingham, who developed through English football before moving to Germany. McDermott added that England had about 26 to 27 per cent English-qualified players in the Premier League, while estimating that between 40 and 50 English players were competing at Champions League level or in European football.
The development suggests that, beyond financial opportunities and the attraction of Europe's biggest clubs, English players are increasingly viewing moves abroad as a means of improving their careers and expanding their footballing experience. The trend reflects a growing willingness among English footballers to seek opportunities outside the Premier League, with different football cultures and playing styles offering new challenges.
Key points
- Exposure to different leagues and football cultures improves players' skills and confidence.
- Seven players in England's initial 25-man squad play their club football outside the country.
- McDermott stresses that playing abroad is not the only route to development.
