Back
Sitting in a meeting with Football Association of Wales chiefs recently gave Tottenham Hotspur star Ben Davies a taste of life off the pitch. As Wales captain, the 33-year-old joined officials to discuss the future of the game. Speaking to the BBC, Davies said, “There are a lot of people in that room with a lot of experience. But ultimately, I am here with a player voice.”
Because of that meeting, the Spurs veteran now fancies a club boardroom role one day. Most retiring pros head straight for the dugout or television studios. However, Davies told the BBC, “I would like to be someone who maybe, at some point, crosses that divide from a player to the boardroom or a front office kind of role.” He added that a player view helps when making decisions.
At the same time, a future in coaching remains firmly on the table. Davies already holds his UEFA A Licence. That badge allows him to lead an Under-18 side, work as a senior assistant, or manage in the Championship. Still, he admitted, “If something falls on my lap in the coaching world, then maybe that will be my route.”
"I'd like to be someone who maybe, at some point, crosses that divide from a player to the boardroom or a front-office kind of role, because I haven't seen too many players over the years who have done that."
— Gary Ward (@GaryRWard) October 29, 2026
– Ben Davies
Via BBC Sport#THFC #SPURS #COYS #TOTTENHAM pic.twitter.com/icoSt2BKfH
Even with those plans taking shape, Spurs fans will not see their longest-serving player retire soon. Since arriving from Swansea City in 2014, Davies has earned the trust of every boss in N17. In fact, he even scored against Coventry City on October 19. Speaking to the BBC, he said, “Look, hopefully retirement is still quite a few years away. I feel fit, and I want to play as long as I can.“
Ben Davies is the crossing the divide between pitch and boardroom ✅
— BBC Sport Wales (@BBCSportWales) October 28, 2026
Appointed to the FAW Council in August 2026 as a dedicated representative for Welsh players, the Wales captain hopes to bridge the gap between those who execute the strategy on the pitch and those who draft it… pic.twitter.com/zXhlDtImlg
Under Roberto De Zerbi this season, the Welshman has served as reliable cover at centre back and left back. Whenever he finally hangs up his boots, helping the Welsh game grow will stay close to his heart. Davies said, “I want to see that Welsh football is giving the best opportunity to all players at every level, throughout the Welsh leagues and down to the grassroots.” Either way, a bright future awaits.