Northern Ireland GK Jackie Burns on plans for life after football

Northern Ireland goalkeeper Jackie Burns, 29, has signed for Burnley after departing Bristol City and says she’s already planning her next career after football. Burns, who has 15 years of experience across leagues in Iceland, Canada and Sweden, believes the transition is manageable when clubs support players beyond the pitch. She expects to move into a player-care role, helping teammates settle into teams “as a person too,” rather than focusing purely on football duties. A key factor in joining the newly promoted Women’s Super League 2 club was Burnley’s willingness to back her post-career ambitions, she said. Burns highlighted how practical support—like navigating housing and car arrangements abroad—can reduce stress for players and make relocation easier.