Former England U17 World Cup winner Curtis Anderson has decided to quit professional football at the age of 24 and become a financial advisor. He is the only player in the 2017 champion team to have completely quit the game.
This former Manchester City academy student helped England win 5-2 against Spain in 2017. He now leads the sports department at an independent financial advisory company. Anderson achieved this historic victory in India with future Premier League stars like Phil Foden, Marc Guehi, and Morgan Gibbs-White.
The journey from champion to businessman
Anderson announced his retirement from football in 2023 after playing with Charlotte Independence, Wycombe Wanderers, and several non-league clubs. Speaking to BBC Sport, he said, “The passion for football was no longer there. I did not have the enthusiasm and love that I had five years ago.”
Now, the goalkeeper spends his time helping young footballers. He teaches them how to use money wisely during their young careers. “You can really change people’s lives by reducing financial pressure. Many people don’t understand basic financial things,” said Anderson.
Early success at Manchester City
Anderson joined the Manchester City academy at the age of 11 from Blackpool for £15,000. He rose through the ranks to become England’s trusted number one goalkeeper during the 2017 U17 World Cup campaign.
In a memorable penalty shootout against Japan, Anderson not only stopped a crucial shot but also scored one himself. “As soon as the game was over, it was a question of who wanted to take the penalty. I immediately raised my hand,” recalled Anderson.
Failure of US adventure
In a bid to get more game time, Anderson made the bold decision to join Charlotte Independence in the United States in 2019. But the decision proved wrong when the manager who signed him was sacked just three months later.
“Looking back I think what a rush I was in at 18,” said Anderson. “I was in a rush to achieve everything quickly. I expected immediate success after the World Cup.”
Focus on financial planning.
During the coronavirus lockdown, Anderson began thinking about his financial future and found he wanted to help others manage their money. He passed accounting and finance exams and then found his passion in financial advisory work.
Anderson now works with players from the Premier League to Ligue 2. He helps them plan for life after football. “Young players with well-paid jobs often don’t have the necessary guidance,” he said.
No regrets about leaving football
When asked if he regretted leaving football while his former teammates were succeeding in the Premier League, Anderson stood firm. “I’m proud of their success; I don’t sit and wish I was in their shoes,” he said.
“If I had the chance to swap places with them now, playing every week in the Premier League, I wouldn’t give that up for my current path,” Anderson added.
At 24, Anderson has found a career that gives him the control and security that lower league football couldn’t. His unique journey from World Cup winner to financial adviser shows that success can be measured in different ways beyond the football field.