When I received my first professional paycheck in Belgium, I spent every cent without a second thought. The first thing I bought? A sleek black Golf GTI—a status symbol back then. Like many young footballers, I lived in the moment, never considering the future.

For three and a half years in Belgium, I didn’t save a dime or invest in education. I believed the “school of life” would be enough. After all, as players, we thrive on instant results—win, lose, or draw. High salaries and lavish lifestyles make it easy to ignore the reality that a football career is short-lived.

It wasn’t until later that I realized the importance of planning for life after football. I pursued my UEFA ‘A’ coaching license, which opened doors in administration. I returned to Zambia, first as Technical Director, then Vice President, and eventually President of the Football Association. My journey led me to FIFA committees and task teams, giving me a deep understanding of football management.

But success in administration isn’t enough. Most players don’t transition into coaching or football-related roles. Without proper education, financial planning, or secondary skills, many struggle after retirement. In Europe, pension schemes are mandatory—something African clubs should consider to protect their players’ futures.

Agents should do more to guide players, but ultimately, the responsibility lies with the athletes themselves. Too many former stars face hardship due to poor financial decisions and a lack of preparation. Football alone is not enough.

Education and skill-building are crucial. Learning languages helped me immensely—I became fluent in Dutch, Spanish, and improved my French, making me a valuable asset in international football. By the time I retired, I had multiple qualifications and a range of skills beyond just playing the game.

Young footballers must plan for the future from day one. Train the mind as well as the body. Don’t get caught up in the self-importance of today. When the final whistle blows, a new game begins—make sure you’re ready to play it.