Just another example that once again many young promising players make the mistake of immediately jumping to the largest clubs without getting many minutes. It happens over and over and suddenly they go from the next greatest thing to 2nd tier. Sure the money may be great at first but if you don't get to do much of what you love, what good is that? And yes the clubs are guilty of it too by continuously raiding their less financially capable counterparts.
I think it's also a symptom of how wide the gap in wages have been getting between clubs. He'd be easier for smaller clubs to retain players if there was a more even playing field financially and sports wise.
I don't have any stats but I'm pretty sure that on average players start at the pro level earlier and earlier for a variety of reasons (and play more games too). Out of Chelsea's 10 most expensive signings this summer, 6 are 22 or younger (and none older than 25).
Might also explain why some players are shot in their early thirties.
I wholeheartedly agree that, purely in sports terms, a lot of players would benefit for not rushing their development. But the whole system is not geared towards that and is inciting to maximise your career (including trophy opportunities) & earnings as soon as possible. There's also wage inertia, it's a lot easier to maintain high demands if you already are on a big salary.