Marnick Vermijl, a former Manchester United player who once had the opportunity to showcase his skills under Sir Alex Ferguson, has now transitioned into a new role as a postman. The Belgian footballer had a memorable moment playing alongside Michael Keane and Scott Wootton in a match that led the Red Devils to a 2-1 victory over Newcastle during the Capital One Cup in 2012. Unfortunately, Vermijl only made two appearances for Manchester United, with his second outing being a disappointing 4-0 defeat to MK Dons in the same competition two years later under Louis van Gaal’s management.
Today, Vermijl splits his time between playing for Belgian third-division team K.V.V. Thes Sport Tessenderlo and working as a postman. The 32-year-old shared that he grew tired of the professional football environment and found more enjoyment in his current roles. As a postman, he appreciates being able to spend time with his family after finishing work by noon, a luxury he didn’t have in his previous football career.
After leaving Old Trafford in 2014, Vermijl had stints at various clubs including Sheffield Wednesday, Preston North End, Scunthorpe, and MVV Maastricht before joining his current club in July 2020. His journey reflects the challenges faced by many players who are unable to secure a long-term position at top clubs despite their talents.
The football world has seen several players from the Ferguson era struggle to establish themselves in the long run. For instance, Lee Roche, who played for United in the Champions League in 2003, retired at a young age of 27 and transitioned to a different career working on a building site. These stories highlight the unpredictable nature of professional football and the resilience required to navigate its ups and downs.
Vermijl’s story serves as a reminder that success in football is not solely defined by playing for prestigious clubs but also finding fulfillment and happiness in one’s career choices. His transition from a promising football career to a more balanced lifestyle demonstrates the importance of personal well-being and satisfaction beyond the realm of sports. As he continues his journey in football and as a postman, Vermijl’s experience sheds light on the diverse paths that athletes can take after their time on the field.