10 Best African Football Agents That You Can Rely On

Behind every player, there is a football agent pulling the strings in the background for a better professional life off the field. These days, few established football agents are more recognizable than the players themselves.

If you’re inquisitive about who an agent is or what their role is. It’s quite simple, the role of agents in sport generally can’t be overemphasized. The business has grown to a level that athletes themselves can’t do without them.

Why?

Agents are professional individuals who represent the interest of a player, which includes negotiating professional and juicy contracts anywhere in the world, in other to achieve the best possible outcome for their client.

Europe has some of the best agents in world football and also manages top footballers and coaches.

However, looking beyond the shores of Europe there are great agents in Africa who are well respected and know the rudiments of representing their clients professionally in sealing mouthwatering deals both in Africa and Europe.

Article was first published on Nov 8 2020 & Updated Oct 17 2023

Who are the most influential football agents in Africa?

1. Diomansy Kamara – (Senegal, DK Football Management)

After a successful playing career at Portsmouth, notably Fulham to mention a few. The former Senegal international became an official football agent recognized by the English Football Association.

Since Kamara retired and ventured into becoming a football agent, the mission has been to bring a new approach to sports business management, particularly in advising and supporting young footballers throughout their professional careers.

Apart from being a football agent, Kamara is also a respected consultant for the Canal Plus TV chain, part of the Lagardere group. As a successful international player, he brings his experience and viewpoint to the fore on the platform.

The former Fulham forward is also a specialized commentator, who has worked in the Premier League, the Champions League as well as the African Cup of Nations.

Diomansy helped Nicolas Jackson secure a lucrative deal with Villareal from Casa Sport(Senegal) and a host of other Senegalese players.

2. Ojo Paul – (Nigeria, P-Sports Limited)

Paul is a Nigerian football agent, who is registered under the Nigeria Football Federation Intermediary, and he is the founder of ‘P-Sports Limited‘, a sports management agency based in Nigeria and founded in 2016.

Paul is no doubt one of the most respected agents in Africa, having worked with some Nigerian players in the mode of Anderson Esiti who plies his trade in Greece with PAOK FC, Issac Success, and Wilfred Ndidi at Leicester City, as well as players and coaches on the home front.

To show how experienced and knowledgeable he is in handling the contracts of his clients, Paul was nominated for the ‘Best African Agent‘ of the year award during the 2019 African Sports Award in Johannesburg, South Africa.

This awesome Nigerian football agent is also well renowned for organizing several sports programs in Nigeria, which serves as a template for great agents across the globe to come in and scout for talented footballers. Among some of the programs he has held includes a scouting program at the Goodwill Akpabio International Stadium, and the invitee received at the program was the former Ghana international Willie Klutse, Chairman of Inter Allies FC, and Omar Nasser El-Eter.

According to the report, Paul was instrumental in facilitating the purchase of C.D Feirense, a Portuguese football club bought by a Nigerian Billionaire and sports enthusiast Kunle Soname through his Portuguese partner Calisto Tiago in 2015.

Paul is a well-dedicated agent whose priority is to bring the best of offers to his clients.

3. Ralph Nkomo – (Zimbabwe, Ralph Sports International)

Nkomo, a Zimbabwe-born South Africa-based football agent is regarded as the continent’s best and has represented some of the best-known names in African football.

He’s worked with former Zimbabwe international forward Benjani Mwaruwari, John Utaka, Kanu, and some top players on his management list.

Among some of the impressive things, he has worked with the Portsmouth football club as a chief scout in Africa. The South Africa-based agent is vast in helping African players secure professional contract in Europe and Africa.

In brokering deals for his clients, a good business year for Nkomo more often than not see him add up over a million pounds into his account as a percentage for work well done.

Working as an intermediary really does come with great skill, as such Ralph Nkomo has the skill to broker contracts and secure endorsements for his clients. When talking about some of the renowned football agents in Africa, Nkomo is certainly a name that comes to mind in the industry allegedly worth over 300m.

READ ALSO: Family Affairs: 5 Players Who Hired Parent As Football Agents

4. Mike Makaab – (South Africa, Prosport International)

Makaab is a former Orlando Pirates manager with whom he won the CAF Champions League in 1995 and PSL in 1994 respectively before he retired in 1997. He’s currently the CEO of the largest sports agency Prosport International Football Agency in South Africa.

Following his retirement in 1997 as a manager due to his passion for the game and interest in the world of commerce, he decided to venture into the world of football agency in May 1998.

His agency has been one of the best that took the interest of their clients as a top priority, which includes professional guidance, mentorship, off-the-field financial planning, wealth and tax management, public relations, sponsorship, and endorsement procurement.

As a football intermediary, Makaab is considered one of the leading agents on the continent among a host of other agents.

The former manager turned agent has worked with South African legend Siyabonga Nomvethe who was his first client to be transported to Europe up till he retired, and currently working with Anele Ngcongca of South Africa who plies his trade at Roeselare (Belgium) with some others in Holland and Germany.

According to Mike in one of his interviews with the media,

“Look, I will do just about anything to earn my commission, including take my player’s sick pets to the vet, arrange for a gardener to mow their lawns, and even on occasion, counsel players on how to get over a broken heart after a love affair”

That statement is a testament to the dedication of a man who knows his onions.

5. Abraham Luzzi – (Uganda, Businessman)

Businessman and philanthropist Abraham ‘Mr. Economy Luzzi‘ was added to the host of football intermediaries in Uganda when he decided to become a FIFA player agent.

“I decided to become a FIFA player intermediary because I want to help many of our footballers here in Uganda to get exposed. Here, they would get better-paying jobs and this means improved welfare for their families”.

As such, due to the promising growth of the football industry in the CECAFA region and Uganda particularly, Luzzi has been able to use that as an avenue to manage the players of the region in other not to fall into the hands of greedy and selfish agents in Uganda or outside the four walls of Uganda.

Among his reasons for choosing this path as an intermediary was because of his love for the game of football, as well as helping out footballers with viable connections.

6. Daniel Eke – (Nigeria)

Just like how great football agents such as Jorge Mendes, Mino Raiola, and Pere Guardiola rule Europe. Eke also rules Nigeria, particularly in the Nigeria Professional League, and he has established himself as one of the finest intermediaries in Nigeria, helping players seal deals in the league.

Eke is well known for his trust, no wonder he’s been able to distinguish himself from other intermediaries who are known to be fraudsters. Being a trustworthy agent, he has been a go-to agent for many players in the Nigeria Professional League.

He’s also well known for breeding youngsters, as such he has been one of the most sought-after agents by many club sides in Nigeria.

Some of the notable players he’s been involved in their transfer include, Cyril Olisema, and Emeka Atulomah to Enyimba, according to report he also has a hand in the transfer of Kelechi Ogoh and Joel Djondang to Wikki Tourists ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

7. Karabo Mathang-Tshabuse – (South Africa, P-Management)

In 2007, Mathang Tshabuse the first female FIFA-accredited football agent in South Africa decided to open her own agency called P Management which scouts for amateur football players and grooms them to become professional players.

Tshabuse was just 21 years old when she summoned the courage to start her own agency, adding to the fact that there were very few football agents at the time she saw the gap as an avenue to make a difference.

Two years later, she was the first female FIFA-licensed football agent in South Africa. As a matter of fact, she was also responsible for setting up the “Association of Accredited Agents” in Johannesburg, South Africa.

In her statement to the media:

“The accredited agents in our country have come together and decided not to be dogs to one another, this is one small way we are trying to curb this dirty murky industry”.

The elegant agent is currently working with players such as the South Africa international trio of Thembinkosi Lorch, Mbuso Sibisi, Tercious Malepe, Justin Shonga, and Francisco Madinga.

And a host of other players who ply their trade in the South African League, not to forget managers like Ian Palmer and Teboho Molo who are under the flagship of her agency.

READ ALSO: Grooming Talents: 10 Of The Best Football Academies In Africa

8. Augustine Ramaita – (Kenya, Shujaa Sports Management)

Ramaita is a Kenyan football intermediary who started in 2016, named Shujaa Sports Management, a company that represents and manages sportsmen but mainly focuses more on footballers.

According to Ramaita’s statement when he was interviewed, in the next five years where did see his agency to be? :

Shujaa Sports Management will be a big player in the transferred business not just in Africa but worldwide”, that is my vision and I want to venture into other sports too, not just football”.

As one of the most influential football agents in Africa, the Kenyan intermediary was involved in the transfer of Kenyan international Francis Kahata‘s move from Gor Mahia to Tanzania giant Simba. John Avire‘s transfer from Sofapaka to the Egyptian side of Tanta SC, and also has a hand in Duke Abuya‘s and Allan Kataregga‘s move to a new team respectively.

9. Yves Tamegnon Amagbegnon – (Ivory Coast, Tamegnon Consulting)

Yves is an Ivorian football intermediary who is well equipped with an excellent sense of contact, he also works with young players who have graduated from the Ivorian Football Federation and are approved by the football governing body (FIFA).

The Ivorian specializes in identifying promising young players, his agency also accompanies and helps young players to realize their potential in becoming professional footballers who could play for some of the best club sides in the world.

Tamegnon Consulting is regarded as one of the most reputable agencies in Africa, that put a keen interest in satisfying the need of their clients while ethically respecting and safeguarding the human and sporting values of clients.

The agency works with players such as Ivorian Jean Jacques Bougouhi who plies his trade in Ararat Armenia FC, Burkinabe international Abdul Karim Zoko (Gandzasar Kapan), Ivorian and Malian Cheick Kafumba Toure (Royal Antwerp) Ivorian Willie Dagou (Zurich FC) among other players.

10. Michael Sodeke – (Nigeria, Anfieldlane Sports Promotion)

Micheal is the acting coordinator and founder of the Football Intermediaries Association of Nigeria (FIAN), he’s also the CEO of Anfieldlane Integrated Services which includes Anfieldlane Soccer School and Anfieldlane Sports Promotion involved in the sports promotion and development of youngsters from grassroots to professional level.

His agency is also involved in representing clients’ interests in terms of transfer moves be it in Africa or Europe.

Michael a native of Ogun State began the journey of the football agency in 2009 and since then he has been involved hugely in the promotion and development of young players to the professional level.

He is known to be a well-trusted agent, as such his attributes of being trustworthy came to the fore in 2018 when he played a huge role in repatriating 10 football trafficking victims who were scammed and left stranded in Cape Verde by a fake agent.

Under the leadership of Michael, FIAN has recorded major achievements which include affiliation with the European football agent Association (EFAA) and a campaign against human trafficking through football.

He has been able to work with Akinyemi Seun (3SC ) FC Ifeanyi Ubah, and Kano Pillars, while Adesina Thomas who is currently under his agency has had a stint with Sunshine Stars, Lobi Stars, and Nasarawa United.

Through his agency, a lot of players have moved abroad including more than 10 players, he’s currently working with one under the flagship of his management.

11. John Shittu

The renowned football agent became popular on account of his role in the transfer saga of John Mikel Obi between Manchester United and Chelsea. Among Shittu’s partners, we can see Jerome Anderson’s SEM, a top sports agency in the UK, and Dan Fletcher, one of the best agents in England.

Shittu is famous for his exceptional work ethic, among the players he managed: were Isaac Promise, Chinedu Obasi, Onyekachi Apam, and Ambrose Efe.

Honorable Mentions

• Churchill Oliseh
• Paul Okoye
• Alex Ebegbune – (Nigeria, EM Sports Management)

FAQ

Who is the best football agent in Nigeria?

• Danjan Sports Consultant. 31 Ikpoba Waterside, Benin City, Edo State Nigeria
• Adeniji Jubril Awofe. 3 Bale Street, Shogunle, Lagos
• Darje Sport and Tourism Agency. 96 Ijesha road, Surulere, Lagos.
• TMD Sports Management. 2 Akinto Street Odo-ona, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Who is the richest football agent?

Jonathan Barnett, representing Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) and England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford (Everton), among others. He is said to have earned his maximum possible commissions of $128m out of negotiated $1.28b active contracts.

How do I become a FIFA licensed Agent in Nigeria?

You have to apply to the Nigerian Football Federation, notifying them of your intention to be a football agent in Nigeria. Your letter must be accompanied by such documents as your birth certificate, certificate of state of origin, and other certificates (academic and non-academic).

Who is the best agent in the world?

Most powerful agents in the world according to Forbes

• Barnett 114.8 1.165 billion Steller Group
• Boras 106.5 2.151 billion Boras Corporation
• Mendes 105.8 1.076 billion Gestifute
• Schwartz 65.0 1.613 billion Excel Sports Management
• Raiola 63.0 630.3 Mino Raiola

How do football agents get paid?

Football Agents are paid through commission for any transfers or contracts they negotiate, and this is the way that the industry works.

How much does a Football Agent make?

$46,143

Football Agent Salary
Annual Salary Monthly Pay
Top Earners $85,000 $7,083
75th $52,000 $4,333
Average $46,143 $3,845
25th Percent $27,000 $2,250

As of Aug 2, 2022, the average annual pay for a Football Agent in the United States is $46,143 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $22.18 an hour. This is the equivalent of $887/week or $3,845/month.

How do I become a football agent?

To be a football agent, you do not need any formal qualifications. You simply need to have successfully registered with the Football Association. However, due to the complex legal side of the role, many football agents were previously lawyers or had trained as lawyers, as this allows them the best chance of success.

Who is Ronaldo’s agent?

Jorge Mendes

Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is one of the most influential in world football and will be tasked with finding a new club for the Portuguese star.

Who is the biggest football agent in the world?

• Mino Raiola. 8 of 10
• Jonathan Barnett. 7 of 10
• Jose Otin. 6 of 10
• Fernando Felicevich. 5 of 10
• Giuliano Bertolucci. 4 of 10
• Thomas Kroth. 3 of 10
• Mondial Promotions. 2 of 10

What do football agents actually do?

A football agent serves as a representative and intermediary for football players. These professionals manage multiple aspects of players’ careers, from negotiating their contracts with clubs and sponsors to handling their public relations.

How much do agents make in the UK?

According to data from unitedpropertyconnect.com, UK residential estate agents earn an average salary of £41,392, which is significantly higher than the national average. Successful and experienced agents can earn anywhere between £50,000 and £100,000 after years of experience.

Who is the youngest football agent?

George Swan

After retiring from professional football because of persistent injuries, Swan became the youngest agent in football.

Is it hard to become a sports agent?

It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to become a sports agent. First and foremost, if you want to be a sports agent, you’ll need to get a college education. Most sports agents are required to have at least a Bachelor’s degree.

What age can a footballer have an agent?

17! A Representation Contract cannot be entered into by an Authorised Agent with a Player under the age of eighteen unless it is countersigned by the Player’s parent or legal guardian with parental responsibility.

Do soccer players need agents?

However, an agent’s primary role in contract negotiations remains the same as it has always been: to secure the best possible deal for his player. Aside from multimillion-pound salaries, agents have devised every possible incentive to get a few extra quid out of a club.

How long will it take to become a sports agent?

Typically, it takes about 8 years or more to gain education and 5 years of experience before gaining the first position as a sports agent. A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for this position; however, you can advance your career by continuing your education.

How do I become a UK agent?

A degree in law or a business area such as marketing or public relations provides transferable skills for agent roles. If your degree is not related, you will also need work experience and extracurricular preferences to prove your enthusiasm for your desired area of agent work and to make contacts.

Do soccer agents travel a lot?

Working conditions and surroundings Sports agents are constantly on the move, meeting with coaches, players, and companies looking to sign representation agreements, among other things. They frequently accompany their player to games across the country, and they work many nights and weekends.

What skills do sports agents need?

• Business savvy. Sports agents are in charge of the business side of athlete employment contracts, so they must have strong professional skills to function effectively.
• Social Intelligence
• Negotiation Skills
• Passion for Sports
• Good Public Image

How do you talk to a soccer agent?

Keep your interaction brief and to the point. Inform the agent of your identity and the reason for your contact. To avoid calling the agency aimlessly, request a specific date and time to schedule a phone call. If the agent responds, express gratitude and confirm the call date.

Who does Mino Raiola represent?

The ‘super agent’ representing Ibrahimovic, Pogba, Haaland & more. Mino Raiola is one of the most powerful figures in football, responsible for handling stars such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paul Pogba, Erling Haaland and, in the past, Romelu Lukaku.

Who does Pini Zahavi represent?

Zahavi is one of the world’s most renowned agents, representing Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski, RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku, and Tottenham’s Pierre-Emile Højbjerg among others.

Are most football agents lawyers?

Among the ever-growing list of licensed agents on the Football Association’s website is a cadre of lawyers, often working on an hourly rate while others earn 10% or more of the multimillion-pound deals they are doing.

What are the cons of being a sports agent?

Cons of Sports Agencies: An agent may be relegated to an administrative role, making regular contact with athletes difficult. It can be difficult to provide a consistent level of service to all athletes on the firm’s roster when there are so many agents and clients.

Can you fire your sports agent?

If the agreement is terminated for a reason, either party may do so without notice. “You must notify your agent 90 days before firing them under this clause, unless you are firing them “for the cause.” For cause is typically defined in the contract or by law.

What percentage do football agents take?

The median fee paid to an agent in a deal less than $500,000 amounts to 18.8 percent of the total transfer fee as a percentage of the total. Given Fifa’s efforts to reform the transfer system, the figures are not without context.

Do football agents need a License?

There are no formal requirements to become a football agent. You simply need to be registered with the Football Association. However, because of the role’s complex legal aspects, many football agents were previously lawyers or had trained as lawyers, giving them the best chance of succeeding.

What should I ask a football agent?

• How many contracts have you negotiated in your professional career?
• How many players are you currently representing?
• What have you done to help your clients advance their careers on and off the field?
• How many years have you been representing client-athletes?

What do I send to a football agent?

When contacting an agent, please include all pertinent information about yourself as a player, such as your age, position, current team, and desired location. Send a CV as well as a highlight video, as no agent will be able to assist you unless you have a good highlight video that illustrates your qualities as a player.

Why is Mino Raiola so popular?

Raiola was fluent in Italian, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, French, English, and German. He was fluent in all of them, which contributed to his meteoric rise to representing some of the biggest names in soccer. In many ways, he reinvented the role of a soccer agent.

How much do players get from transfer fees?

Officially, a professional player receives no percentage of a transfer fee because the money is paid to the selling club. A signing-on fee can be agreed upon between the player and both clubs.

How much do soccer agents get?

Agents can also earn up to 25% commission on any sponsorship deals that their clients secure. As you can see, there is no set salary for a Football Agent, nor is there a set yearly salary that you can receive.

Why do football clubs pay agents?

The club pays because the agent is acting for them

The buying club may occasionally pay the player’s agent to act on its behalf during the transfer. You’d be correct if you thought this was a conflict of interest. In this case, the player must agree that his agent can work for both parties.

How many football agents are there in the world?

The list was kindly provided by FIFA and it included the personal contacts of 5,787 licensed agents worldwide.

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