Former Premier League defender defender Steven Caulker has revealed that he is struggling to find a new job after retiring from professional football.

The 34-year-old announced his retirement in late 2025 and he recently worked as an assistant manager at Turkish club Konyaspor. 

Caulker says he holds a UEFA A coaching licence but has found it difficult to secure a new position since he left his coaching role at Konyaspor in September. 

He played for Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Cardiff City, Queens Park Rangers, Swansea City and Southampton in the Premier League with over 120 appearances in the English top division. 

Steven Caulker opens up on his job search

The former Sierra Leone captain revealed that his job search has been stressful, despite his experience of moving between clubs during his playing career.

He lamented the snub from recruiters despite holding relevant qualifications for desired roles he is applying for. 

"Being unemployed is stressful," Caulker wrote on LinkedIn: "I've been here many times before, I'm used to the rollercoaster of emotions, but it doesn't make it any easier.

"Applying for jobs for which I have all the qualifications yet am unable to get even an interview hurts, but that does not mean I should panic.

"Walt Disney was rejected over 300 times; rejection is part of most people's stories. The bit I find difficult is then turning down the jobs that do come my way which are not aligned with my goals.

"Staying calm and composed during these times is important, and adding some kind of structure to my day certainly helps. I've just finished my morning run and feeling pretty good after releasing some endorphins."

Steven Caulker targets a future Premier League managerial role

On Tuesday, Caulker confirmed that his public outburst has returned some positive impact with several offers from different industries.

The former Fenerbahce defender said he was back in the United Kingdom and wanted to gain more experience as he works towards his ambition of managing in the Premier League.

Caulker wrote on LinkedIn on Tuesday: "On Sunday, I posted about my ongoing job search. 48 hours later, I now have the following: 30+ podcast requests, 12 offers to invest in people's businesses, four events to attend, three potential job offers from different industries and 100+ messages of support.

"One post won't land me my dream job; consistently showing up and doing the right thing will. 

"I am an aspiring Premier League manager with two years of coaching experience, seventeen years of playing experience, and a UEFA A license, while working towards my Pro license.

"Alongside coaching, I am a radio and television pundit, having worked with Sky Sports, the BBC, Channel 4, and talkSPORT.

"Last but not least, I am a public speaker who delivers a range of workshops. If you are interested in knowing more, please send me a DM, and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

"Thank you everyone for all the love and support, and I am wishing those of you in a similar situation the best of luck."

Caulker is not the only former Premier League player to have moved into management in the English top flight.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, Manchester United’s Michael Carrick, Coventry City’s Frank Lampard and Chelsea’s Xabi Alonso are former Premier League players who are currently working as managers in the elite division.