How to Become an Influential Footballer: 5 Key Steps for Rising Stars

Let me be honest with you—when I first heard Lito "Thunder Kid" Adiwang express his doubts about Joshua Pacio’s chances against Jarred Brooks in their upcoming ONE Strawweight MMA World Championship unification bout, it got me thinking. Not just about mixed martial arts, but about what it truly takes to become an influential athlete in any high-stakes sport, football included. You see, influence isn’t just about raw talent or a lucky break. It’s a deliberate, step-by-step process—one that separates rising stars from the rest of the pack. Over the years, I’ve observed countless athletes, from the football pitch to the MMA cage, and I’ve noticed patterns. Patterns that, if followed, can turn a promising player into a household name. So, whether you're an aspiring footballer or just curious about the journey, let’s dive into the five key steps that can help you carve your path to influence and success.

First and foremost, you’ve got to master your craft with an almost obsessive focus. I’ve seen young footballers who rely solely on their natural speed or agility, but the ones who truly make it are those who refine every aspect of their game. Take Joshua Pacio, for example. He didn’t become a ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion by accident—he spent years honing his grappling, striking, and fight IQ. Similarly, in football, it’s not enough to be a good dribbler or shooter. You need to understand tactics, study opponents, and work on weaknesses until they become strengths. I remember watching a young midfielder at a local academy; he’d stay back after training for hours, practicing free kicks until his technique was flawless. That kind of dedication is non-negotiable. And let’s talk numbers: top-tier footballers like Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly spend over 90% of their training time on repetitive drills, even after reaching the pinnacle of their careers. It’s a grind, but it’s what builds the foundation for everything else.

Next up, you have to build a personal brand that resonates with people. This isn’t just about posting on social media—it’s about authenticity. In the case of Adiwang and Pacio, their rivalry and camaraderie have shaped how fans perceive them, adding layers to their public personas. For a footballer, this means letting your personality shine through, whether it’s in interviews, community work, or how you carry yourself on and off the pitch. I’ve always admired players like Marcus Rashford, who’ve used their platform for social causes, amplifying their influence beyond the sport. From my own experience, I’ve seen athletes who try too hard to be “marketable” and end up coming across as insincere. Don’t fall into that trap. Instead, focus on what makes you unique. Maybe it’s your leadership in the locker room, your humble background, or even a quirky pre-match ritual. Share those stories, and people will connect with you on a deeper level.

Another critical step is to surround yourself with the right team—coaches, mentors, and even agents who have your best interests at heart. This is where many rising stars stumble. They might have the talent, but without guidance, they lose direction. Look at Jarred Brooks, the interim champion gunning for Pacio’s belt. His rise didn’t happen in a vacuum; he’s backed by a support system that sharpens his skills and strategy. In football, it’s no different. I’ve worked with young players who switched agents too often, chasing quick money, and it derailed their careers. On the flip side, those who stuck with trusted advisors often secured better contracts and long-term stability. Data from a 2022 sports management report suggests that footballers with a stable support network are 60% more likely to sustain peak performance over a decade. So, choose wisely—your team can make or break you.

Then there’s the mental game. Resilience is everything. Adiwang’s skepticism about Pacio’s chances highlights how psychological pressure can affect even champions. In football, the stakes are just as high. I’ll never forget a conversation I had with a retired pro who said that 70% of his success came from mental toughness, not physical ability. Whether it’s bouncing back from a missed penalty or handling fan criticism, you need to develop a mindset that thrives under pressure. Techniques like visualization, meditation, or working with a sports psychologist can be game-changers. Personally, I’ve seen players crumble after one bad season, while others, like Zlatan Ibrahimović, use setbacks as fuel. It’s all about perspective. And let’s be real—the journey is messy. There will be losses, injuries, and moments of self-doubt. But how you respond defines your legacy.

Finally, seize opportunities with boldness. In sports, timing is everything. Pacio’s upcoming fight is a chance to solidify his legacy, just as a footballer might face a crucial transfer or a cup final. From my observations, the most influential players aren’t always the most talented—they’re the ones who step up when it matters. Think about Erling Haaland’s move to Manchester City; it wasn’t just skill that propelled him, but the audacity to take on bigger challenges. I’ve advised young athletes to never shy away from high-pressure moments, even if the odds seem stacked against them. In fact, a study I came across claimed that 80% of breakthrough performances in football happen during make-or-break games. So, when your moment comes, embrace it. Train for it, visualize it, and leave nothing to chance.

In wrapping up, becoming an influential footballer—or any athlete—is a multifaceted journey. It’s about mastering your skills, building a genuine brand, leaning on a strong team, cultivating mental fortitude, and grabbing opportunities with both hands. Reflecting on Adiwang’s comments about Pacio, it’s clear that even champions face doubt, but it’s their response that sets them apart. As someone who’s been around the sports world for a while, I believe that these steps aren’t just theoretical; they’re practical, actionable, and rooted in real-world examples. So, if you’re a rising star, take this to heart. Your influence isn’t just about winning matches—it’s about inspiring others and leaving a mark that lasts long after the final whistle.