Analysis: Which leagues prefer experienced players, and which prefer youngsters?

For the first time in almost 30 years, Liverpool fielded six players aged 30 or above in the starting eleven in the season opener against Fulham.
Off The Pitch analyses the big five European leagues to see where older players are preferred, and where the youth is given a chance.
Why it matters: Giving young players minutes at the highest level is a great way to aid development and potentially create valuable assets for sale.
The perspective: Whether a player is heading towards the end of his career or is looking for minutes to aid his development as a youngster, playing time is crucial. The statistics show that certain leagues and clubs are more attractive for older players.

Prior to their demolition of Bournemouth, Liverpool’s two points in three games was the club’s worst start to a season since 2012. The management appears to have preferred continuity going into the new season, as few acquisitions have been made.

In the first five games, about 40 per cent of the minutes played by Liverpool have been played by experienced players aged 30 or above, exemplified by the season opener against Fulham when the club started six players in this age range

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