Joe Marler recently revealed his surprise when discovering Jimmy Bullard’s highest-ever salary as a footballer.
This came up during Bullard’s guest appearance on Marler’s Things People Do podcast, where the pair discussed various career highlights.
Marler’s Jaw-Dropping Moment
While chatting, Marler asked Bullard about his prime earnings in football, to which the former Fulham and Hull City player responded, “My biggest contract was £50k a week.”
Marler, clearly taken aback, couldn’t hide his shock, responding with an astonished, “£50k a week?!”
It was a figure that left the rugby star stunned.
Bullard’s Thoughts on Modern Player Salaries
The conversation quickly shifted to current Premier League wages, with Bullard speculating that some of Manchester City’s top players, like Kevin de Bruyne, could be earning as much as £350k a week.
In fact, Capology reports that de Bruyne is one of the highest earners in the league, pulling in a reported £400k per week.
Marler’s Retirement Announcement
Marler, who recently announced his retirement from international rugby at the age of 34, is transitioning into life beyond the pitch.
Though he’ll continue playing for Harlequins in the Premiership, he is preparing to shift toward punditry, much like Bullard did after his own playing days.
Marler made his retirement official after an impactful 12-year international career.
He first represented England in 2012, facing South Africa in Durban.
His decision to retire was, in part, influenced by his desire to focus on family life, with wife Daisy and their four children becoming his top priority.
Reflecting on his decision, Marler expressed both sadness and pride.
Reflecting on His Rugby Journey
Marler shared that playing for England always felt like a surreal experience.
He admitted to having moments where he felt he was living in a “dream bubble” and expected it to eventually burst.
But now, he recognizes that it’s simply time to move on.
He wants to cherish the memories of his career and be present for his family, especially as his priorities shift.
“I can’t do what I used to do as well as I once could,” he shared.
“I can’t keep talking about my family being my priority unless they actually are. I want to keep untarnished all these memories of my career.”
Marler also reflected on his 95 caps for England, expressing gratitude for the opportunities he had and for the support from teammates, fans, and those who helped shape his journey.
What’s Next for Joe Marler?
With his rugby career officially behind him, Marler is now focused on spending more time with his loved ones and exploring new opportunities, including the possibility of pursuing punditry, where he might follow in Bullard’s footsteps.
While it’s the end of one chapter, Marler’s story is far from over.
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