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The path to professional football is not only about training, matches, and talent. It also includes hundreds of conversations, contacts, and decisions that influence your career. Unfortunately, not everyone who offers a helping hand has good intentions. In the world of football – just like in life – you must stay alert and learn to distinguish real help from empty promises.
Many young players trust people just because they use big words, show pictures with footballers, or promise transfers abroad. But often, someone without an agent license – but with passion, knowledge, and genuine intent – can do more for you than someone with a license who only sees profit in you.
Here are 10 things you must avoid to not get scammed on your football journey:
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DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND
If someone hands you a contract and says, “Trust me, it’s just a formality” – don’t do it. Always consult agreements with a lawyer, a parent, or someone who understands football and genuinely cares about your well-being. -
AVOID PEOPLE WHO PROMISE QUICK SUCCESS
There are no shortcuts. If someone says they’ll get you into a top club in a week – something is probably wrong. Professional transfers take time, observation, connections, and often many attempts. -
DO NOT PAY FOR “TRIALS” BLINDLY
If someone demands hundreds or thousands of euros for organizing a trial, but can’t give you the name of the club, coach, or location – they’re likely trying to scam you. -
PAY ATTENTION TO WHO YOU WORK WITH – A LICENSE IS NOT EVERYTHING
FIFA introduced mandatory licenses for agents, but having a license doesn’t guarantee honesty, effectiveness, or commitment. In reality, someone without a license but with passion, knowledge, and proven results may do more for you than someone who treats you like another number in their database.
Sometimes, their track record matters more than a FIFA license. Look at what the person has actually done – have players made it to clubs thanks to them, how do they communicate, and what does their daily work look like? Today, Instagram or other social media platforms can tell you more about someone’s credibility than a certificate on the wall. Check whether they show real activity – attending matches, negotiating contracts, developing players.
What matters most are results and integrity – not titles. -
DO NOT FALL FOR EMOTIONAL BLACKMAIL
If someone tells you, “Only I believe in you,” “You’ll fail without me,” or “You’ll let me down,” they are manipulating your emotions. A professional relationship is based on mutual respect, not pressure. -
AVOID MIDDLEMEN WHO LACK TRANSPARENCY
If someone doesn’t say who they work with, which clubs know them, or what proof they have of their work – be cautious. A good agent or manager doesn’t need to brag, but should be transparent. -
DO NOT LET ANYONE CONTROL YOUR CONTACTS
If someone tries to cut you off from other coaches, agents, or people who could help you – they want control. You always have the right to explore different paths and seek other opinions. -
BE WARY OF PEOPLE WHO BADMOUTH EVERYONE ELSE
If someone keeps attacking other agents, coaches, or clubs instead of focusing on their own work – it’s a red flag. A good advisor doesn’t need to discredit others to prove their value. -
DON’T PAY FOR PROMISES – PAY FOR RESULTS
Instead of promises, expect concrete steps: contacts with clubs, trial invitations, or specific training sessions. If someone asks for money upfront “to arrange a deal” – walk away. -
DON’T LOSE FAITH IN YOURSELF BECAUSE OF BAD PEOPLE
Many players have been discouraged by scammers who promised much but delivered nothing. But that doesn’t mean your journey is over. Look for people with heart, experience, and dedication – they do exist.
SUMMARY
On your football path, you’ll meet people who support you and others who want to take advantage of you. Your job is not to trust everyone, but to separate words from actions. Always use reason, ask questions, seek advice, and most importantly – don’t let anyone make decisions for your life without your clear, informed consent.
Professional football is a dream – but reaching it requires not only physical performance, but also mental resilience and common sense. Stay sharp. Stay focused. And don’t let yourself be fooled.
