Leaving Malta makes sense for Barbara

Striker Etienne Barbara hopes the next generation of Maltese players will follow his example in looking to improve themselves abroad, advising them: "The sooner you try to make it abroad the better."

Brave decision
At the start of this season, the former Floriana FC, Marsaxlokk FC, Birkirkara FC and Sliema Wanderers FC player decided to abandon the comfort of his native Malta and try his luck in Germany with fourth division SC Verl. "I have always wanted to play abroad because it is the crowning achievement for a footballer," he told uefa.com.

Higher level
The 26-year-old is hoping his experience aqt Verl will lead to a move up the footballing ladder, but has already learned from his first few months in Germany. "My experience with Verl has got me started abroad," he said. "I always work hard and strive hard to learn from my coaches and team-mates. My target remains something at a much higher level."

Learning curve
Given that he has been capped 28 times by Malta, the move to Verl was a brave one for Barbara but he feels it is already paying off. "Here in Germany the tempo of the game is always very high, even at this level," he said. "Your game improves and you improve physically. I do believe I have gained a lot from this experience in Germany with Verl."

German attitude
His only real regret so far is the fact that it took him so long to move away. "The difference in footballing ability is not that big between Malta and Germany, it is more the approach to the game, the professional standards in training and the big sacrifices and hard work they put into the game that differs so much to Malta," he said.

Single-minded approach
"I am convinced Malta can produce players that will succeed abroad," he added. "Young talents are always emerging in Malta. The point is that these talents need to be taken good care of from a very young age. Many players lose their way due to things that happen in life, but I do believe that this issue is being taken care of in Malta."

Be ambitious
"My message to our young players is to work as hard as you can," concluded Barbara. "A footballing career is very brief, so have fun and enjoy your life, but be more professional when you look at it. I know it's not easy but it's the only way Maltese players can achieve their dream. And the sooner you try to make it abroad the better."