Some recent findings that were brought to light by a global research that was conducted among footballers have revealed some very alarming facts in the world of Australian football.

More specifically, according to a statement that was released by the Professional Footballer’s Association (PFA), almost three quarters of all players don’t know what the future holds for them, with the coronavirus having placed an indefinite impetus on all matches.

Over 150 footballers took part in the Mental health symptoms in professional football during the coronavirus (COVID-19) global crisis study, that was held by FIFPro’s Chief Medical Officer Vincent Gouttebarge.

The results of this study leave more than enough cause for alarm as 77 per cent of male and female participants showed great concern for their professional future, while 58 per cent of players reported symptoms of severe anxiety and yet another 45 per cent had symptoms of depression.

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During regular play periods, the rate of anxiety symptoms usually reach their peak at around 8 per cent.

The PFA’s Chief Executive Officer, John Didulica, remarked on the report’s findings, indicating the difficulties of the current situation and pointing out that the importance lies not on the financial front, but on the players themselves:

“These alarming trends should be a wake-up call and should rightly reframe the focus of COVID-19 on football from economic impacts to the human and health impacts,” said Mr Didulica.

“Amplifying the challenges inherent in COVID-19 is uncertainty. We are all aware that the future economics of the sport will shift and that we all need to adapt to that. However, what shouldn’t change is a commitment to supporting our people – and the current uncertainty is central to the increased mental health challenges being experienced by players.”

From the outbreak of the coronavirus and the imposition of the restrictions by the Federal and State Governments, near 2,000 (1,992) footballers have received support from the PFA.