Furthermore, researchers today often have access to much greater career support than did those of previous generations. I have witnessed this shift at first hand over my three decades in academic career consultancy. And, although provision remains patchy, universities are increasingly investing in professional-development programmes, dedicated career staff, mentoring schemes and coaching to help researchers prepare for careers in academia and beyond.

Of course, neither footballers nor researchers are motivated only by career prospects. For researchers, the opportunity to explore unanswered questions, make discoveries and contribute to society remains a powerful draw. Much like a footballer dreaming of representing their country, many scientists are driven by the chance to be part of something larger than themselves.

Not many footballers win the World Cup. Few researchers win a Nobel prize. But both professions continue to attract people willing to devote themselves to the pursuit of something uncertain. And for researchers, at least, leaving academia need not mean leaving the field.