Cypriot football clubs have highest ratio of foreign players in Europe

According to a press release issued by the Pancyprian Footballers’ Association, the PFPO survey shows that 72,3% of the players competing in Cypriot teams are foreign nationals. Players of Cypriot teams also have the highest age average in Europe, with the mean age standing at 28,02 years.

The findings of the survey, titled “Demographic study of footballers in Europe” are based on a census of 13.108 footballers, currently playing for 534 clubs in 36 top division leagues of UEFA member national associations.

According to PFA, the study confirms the Association’s concerns on the future of football players in Cyprus and of the course of football in general.

Findings also show that England follows Cyprus in the second place, with 58,4% of its players being foreign nationals. It is noted that 61% of the latter are international players.

Nicosia’s team “Olympiacos” ranks first among other European teams, with 85% of its players being foreigners. The team has also recorded the most transfers of players, which reached 95% of its players.

Also, Cyprus is the second country, after Portugal, employing most Brazilian nationals in domestic teams, the survey says.

According to the announcement, PFA notes its concern on the high employment rates of foreign nationals and the high age average of players employed in Cypriot teams, adding that measures to protect Cypriot football need to be taken.

FIFA – Cyprus – Ranking

Cyprus ranks 91st in FIFA's new world ranking, with 367 points. Compared to the previous FIFA ranking, on the 12th of January, Cyprus lost two positions.