Football Agents… Know their market ! 👨🏾💼⚽️
As an agent, having a network is important but knowing the “market” of the agents in your network is equally important. You wouldn’t seek out the services of a property lawyer if you’ve been arrested. You’d be looking for a criminal lawyer right ? 🤔
Based on the time I have spent in the industry in various capacities, this is how I categorise some of the agents I have come across ⤵️
▶ The Nurturers – They focus on young talent (approx. 17-21), especially from Africa. They know it’s capital intensive, and know the difficulties with securing visas/work permits, but aren’t fazed. They support the player’s development, bring them to Europe and continue to grow with them. They are patient, kind and empathetic.
Most likely to say ➡️ “His visa was refused… Again!!! 😫”
▶ The Swoopers – They have a good network in the big leagues in Europe, Asia and the US, and prefer to work with the “elite” players. They don’t have much time for the grassroots. They wait until the hard work is done, and then 🦅. They can be a little arrogant, and are more ruthless and cutthroat.
Most likely to say ➡️ “I have Guardiola on speed dial. I can call him right now”.
▶ The Intimidators – They work with older African players (usually 24+). They have a network in North Africa, Turkey, Asia, China and other regions that seek out older, more experienced players. They tend to lack patience, and bully players into accepting offers by telling them they are getting old and by “threatening” to give the opportunity to another player if they don’t accept asap 🤣.
Most likely to say ➡️ “USD10,000 is a very good salary”.
▶ The Safebetters – They don’t like stress 😎. They work mainly in Europe, and don’t like taking risks.
Most likely to say ➡️ “I need a top striker, €2,500, EU passport only”.
▶ The Visionaries – They work mainly in the women’s game. They could see very early on how women’s football would explode and how interest would soar, and have been patiently waiting in a calmer, non congested market.
Most likely to say ➡️ “The club doesn’t have a huge budget”.
▶ The Promisors – They prefer to represent clubs. They find a player, the player is signed up, they get paid, and the relationship with the player (if there ever was one) is over. These guys make a lot of verbal promises to the players that never materialise.
Most likely to say ➡️ “You will play every single match with this club because they are seeking promotion”.
▶ The Opportunists – Their modus operandi is adding themselves randomly to player’s Transfermarkt GmbH & Co. KG profiles despite having no relationship with the player 😅. If a club takes an interest in the player they will naturally contact the agent to make enquiries. The agent then tracks the player down, claiming they “found” them a deal, and expecting a commission 😤.
Most likely to say ➡️ “I have been working very hard on your behalf”
Enjoy 😜
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