From aspirations to exploitation : the hidden costs of restrictive transfer regulations in Maltese youth football

Abstract

In recent years, global concern has grown over the well-being and development of young footballers, particularly regarding recruitment, transfers, and risks of maltreatment. Although the International Federation of Association Football introduced regulations to protect minors, these regulations target international transfers and overlook domestic transfers. In places like Malta, a small European island in the Mediterranean with limited professionalisation in sport, young players are left vulnerable. This qualitative study explores the experiences and psychological impact of domestic club transfers on young players and their families in Malta. Nine parents/guardians of U15 and U17 players (six boys, three girls) shared their experiences of facing transfer restrictions and excessive fee demands (between 250 and 10.000 euros). Reflexive thematic analysis was utilised to analyse the data. Parents reported emotional distress, marital strain, and mental health issues, while they observed their children experiencing anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, and, in extreme cases, suicidal ideation. These findings expose gaps in domestic safeguarding regulations and highlight the urgent need for transparent policies. Sport psychology consultants are well-positioned to advocate for systemic reform and to support families throughout the transfer process. This study provides insights relevant to similarly structured nations seeking to protect the mental health and rights of young athletes.