From the school grounds to the Bernabeu, Paul Clement’s career trajectory has been one of rapid success.
However, becoming a Champions League winner, as well as league champion in England and Germany, was far from his mind when working as a PE teacher.
Speaking to students at UCFB Wembley, Carlo Ancelotti’s favourite assistant said: “At quite an early age I realised I wasn’t going to be at the level to be a pro player, so I embarked on anther pathway that would hopefully lead to a career in the game. I went to university and did a sports science degree, then my PGCE as well.”
The former Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich manager added: “My first time job was a PE teacher and I think that gave me a fantastic foundation for what I was going to do later in my career as a coach and as a manager.”
Before joining Chelsea’s first team set up, Clement spent time with the club’s youngsters making his way through the ranks. Hard work, he says, is vital to succeed in the football industry
Clement said: “I would have loved to have been a player, I tried to do that but I just didn’t have the natural talent, but I think I had the hard work. If you’re going to be successful in anything it’s a blend of those two main qualities - natural talent plus the work ethic and the desire to successful.”
