Motivators and Problems of Being a Global Migrant (Outsource) Soccer Labor in Turkey: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to reveal the motivators and problems of soccer players that pursue their professional careers in Turkey. In this qualitative research, convenience sampling and criterion sampling, which are kinds of nonrandom sampling methods was used to determine the participants. Eight male soccer players from the Genclerbirligi Soccer Team who were complied with the research criteria, voluntarily participated in the study. The demographic information form and semi-structured interview form were used as data collection tools. All interviews were recorded by audio and video recording devices. Data was analyzed by content analysis. The findings showed that; this study was supported the "mercenary", "ambiotis" and "nomadic cosmopolitan" items, which are in typologies that motivates athletes to migrate to a host country. In addition, language and cultural differences were the main problems for migrant athletes. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that besides the items in the typologies, "positive information" can facilitate the migration of athletes to a host country. Furthermore, it expressed the importance of inquiry on the cultural structure of the host country for migrant athletes, in order to minimize negative influences of problems.