Collecting football autographs is an exciting and prestigious hobby that is practiced by many around the world. Whether it is a fan in Lyon, France or a fan from Lisbon, Portugal, both fans share many things in common such as a passion for the beautiful game and it’s star players.

Collecting autographs first starts with the type of medium used. Where will the autograph be signed by the player? Will it be on a soccer ball that has many autographs already? Will it be a players team jersey that will be signed on the back? Or will it be a poster or photograph of the player?

There are other mediums of course. Autograph collectors are some of the craftiest people on the planet. Whatever medium you choose, make sure it can be signed by the player in a quick and hassle free way.

The second step of autograph collecting is catching the players. This is harder then you may think. Players who play for internationally known clubs such as Manchester United, Barcelona, Chelsea, Arsenal and AC Milan are constantly on the move and are usually accompanied by many private guards and stewards.

Therefore it is very difficult to get autographs of these players unless you live in the home city of the team. Fortunately for the rest of us many teams and players offer autograph signing sessions during the season.

If you can find the date of the sessions and attend one you will have an excellent chance of getting an autograph from a star player such as Sergio Ramos from Real Madrid. Some players are more shy then others and are harder to get. Just like different people in our families have different personalities so do football players have different tendencies. You may encounter a player such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic hanging out a pub in Barcelona and if you recognize him you can ask him for an autograph.

Getting autographs requires searching, scouting, extensive travel, and the ability to be able to spend money. Getting close to players usually means purchasing expensive tickets or being in on certain VIP events. Good luck to getting the autograph of your favorite player!

Here are a few tips to getting autographs. During friendlies most players are more laid back and more inclined to sign autographs before and after the match. Usually players will approach the front row seats and sign shirts/flags of team fans.

If you can spot a team bus, you may be able to get an autograph if people are allowed to view the players entering the stadium. Be alert and be willing to get close to the team. This will increase your chances of getting autographs. Happy autograph collecting.