Unlocking Soccer's Diversity Dilemma: Urgent Action Required, Urges Manchester United Legend Rio Ferdinand

Manchester United and England legend Rio Ferdinand expressed the urgent need for the soccer industry to address diversity and representation in its leadership structures. He emphasized that decisions are currently being made by individuals lacking a comprehensive understanding or empathy for the players themselves. In an interview with CNN prior to the roundtable discussion "A Seat At The Table," centered around sports representation, Ferdinand openly shared his perspective on the necessary changes within organizations. He even expressed a willingness to assume a leadership role if given the opportunity.

"I believe that when you observe my sport, football, and look closely at the playing field and grassroots level, you will find a tremendous blend," Ferdinand expressed.

"However, the diversity we witness on the field is not adequately mirrored in other aspects of football, particularly in decision-making processes," Ferdinand added.

So, we're making decisions for the game, but... decisions are being made by individuals who lack a thorough understanding or empathy for the players actually on the football pitch. Therefore, I believe there is a pressing need for significant and rapid change in this regard.

Rio Ferdinand lifts the FIFA Club World Cup Trophy in 2008.

Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

According to a report from the Black Footballers Partnership in 2023, Black employees held 4.4% of management-related positions in English football's four professional leagues - the Premier League, Championship, League One, and League Two. This marks a rise from 3.7% in 2022, representing a total increase of eight jobs.

During the 2021-22 season, English Football League clubs advertised 83 coaching positions. Among the 1,597 applications received for these roles, 19% (300) were from minority candidates.

Out of the 300 applicants, slightly more than half had the requisite coaching qualifications needed to be considered for the available position. Only 81 individuals (23%) made it to the interview stage, and out of those, just over a quarter, specifically 22, were successful.

Ferdinand specifically praised Brentford FC, a West London club, for their comprehensive diversity throughout the organization. He viewed them as an exemplary model, leading the way in this regard, and suggested that many other clubs could learn from their approach.

Earlier this year, during its second season in the top tier of English soccer, Brentford was acknowledged by the Premier League for its accomplishments in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).

Preeti Shetty and Deji Davies hold positions on the club's board, making them the first South Asian female and the only Black British male, respectively, to serve on the board of a Premier League club, as confirmed by Brentford. Additionally, Lorna Falconer, a Black administrator, is the head of football operations at the club, and former professional player Justin Cochrane, who is also Black, serves as the head coach.

Brentford FC

Lorna Falconer revealed encountering racism and sexism within the realm of English football. Ferdinand emphasized his dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within his own enterprises, and acknowledged personally facing the need to address this same issue.

He stated that he received a presentation consisting of photographs, names, and job titles of some senior employees in the company. After reviewing it, he promptly returned the presentation with the message that it could not be sent out.

He expressed his astonishment, pointing out that he was the sole person of color among the six individuals featured in the photographs and names. Therefore, he strongly urged for the presentation to be discarded and replaced.

"I genuinely prefer to select the best individuals, or more precisely, those who walk through our door. However, at times, we must actively engage with the community and encourage them to come in. Many people believe that opportunities are limited, particularly at large companies like ours. They may feel that our company's door is closed, and the distance to reach us is too great.

Therefore, we will actively reach out to the community, even if it means providing training to those without experience. Diversity holds immense significance to me on a personal level," he further emphasized.

Ferdinand, the former captain of England, who has secured several Premier League titles and the Champions League, expressed his willingness to assume a leadership role within the sport.

"Yeah, I believe I can and will do so in due course. Currently, I am engaged in various business ventures that demand my time," he stated.

I am confident that there will come a time when I will be prepared to take on such roles. However, I am uncertain about the specific level and organization at which this will happen. Nevertheless, I believe in my abilities and I am determined to make it happen.

Warner Bros. Discovery is the owner of TNT Sports and CNN.

Tune in to TNT Sports 1 at 8 p.m. BST on 19 October to catch Black History Month - A Seat At The Table. Exclusive streaming on discovery+ will be available for viewers in the UK and Ireland, while discovery+ streaming is restricted to UK viewers only.