1. Talent: The first and most obvious reason is talent. Football is a highly competitive sport, and only the most talented players make it to the top level. While hard work and dedication can help players improve their skills, some individuals are simply born with exceptional natural abilities.

2. Work ethic: Another essential factor is the player's work ethic. To succeed at the highest level, players must be willing to put in the time and effort required to improve their game continually. This means practicing regularly, staying fit, and living a healthy lifestyle.

3. Opportunity: Making it to the first-team also requires opportunity. Even the most talented and hardworking players may struggle to break into the first-team if the team is already well-established with experienced players. Sometimes, players need to wait for their chance to prove themselves or even look for opportunities at other clubs.

4. Luck: Finally, luck plays a role in a player's success. Injuries, timing, and other factors outside of a player's control can all impact their chances of making it to the first-team.

It is important to note that becoming a professional football player is an incredibly difficult and highly competitive achievement. While many young players dream of turning professional, only a small percentage of them actually succeed.

There are several reasons why only a few football players fail to become professionals:

1. Talent: Football is a sport that requires a high level of skill, athleticism, and coordination. Players who possess exceptional natural abilities are more likely to be scouted by professional clubs and offered the opportunity to develop their skills at an academy or youth level.
2. Work ethic: Even with exceptional natural talent, players must have a strong work ethic to succeed at the professional level. Professional football players must train and practice regularly to maintain their physical fitness and improve their technical skills.
3. Opportunity: Opportunities to become a professional football player are limited, and the competition is fierce. Only a small percentage of young players who join football academies or youth teams will eventually make it to the professional level.
4. Luck: Finally, luck can also play a role in a player's success. Injuries, timing, and other factors outside of a player's control can all impact their chances of becoming a professional football player.

Overall, while many young players have the desire to become professional football players, only a small percentage of them will achieve this goal. It requires a combination of talent, hard work, opportunity, and a bit of luck to succeed at the highest level.