I HATE answering this question, and it also happens to be the number one question I get asked as a football agent: "Do you think I can go pro?"
Why I Dislike Answering This Question
There are many reasons why I hate answering, "Do you think I can go pro?" The first reason is that it is almost impossible to answer. Many people think that playing in NPL or State League means there is an equal translation to playing a certain division in Europe. While this makes sense on paper, it doesn't add up in practice. There are so many variables that come into play when an amateur player tries to transition to become a pro.
The Unpredictability of Talent and Success
When I first started this company with my dad, we used to sponsor players' journeys completely. There was one Brazilian player who was unbelievable in the NPL system. He was a forward who scored many goals and carried the team on his back. Everyone believed he would definitely make it as a professional. We invested money, sent him overseas, and he performed amazingly. But then, the variables came into play. He started missing his mum, girlfriend, little brother, PlayStation, dog, and so on. His head wasn't in the right place, and he didn't make it.
I've also had players who seemed average but went overseas, trialed, and got offered scholarships. This changed my perspective because it showed that it's not just about the football. There’s so much more behind each player, and it's hard to understand this without building a relationship with them. Some players flourish when they get away from their routines and families; others crumble. These are things you can't predict or put down on paper.
The Importance of Numbers and Persistence
There are 120 professional clubs in Spain alone, so just because 20 clubs say no, it doesn’t mean one won’t say yes. Statistically, if someone trials at every single club, about 2% of them should say yes. This is why opinions don't matter as much as people think. Every person sees things differently, and every club has different needs and perspectives. It’s almost like a numbers game.
The Role of an Agent
My job isn’t to tell you whether you will go pro or not. It’s similar to a lawyer’s job—whether a client is guilty or not, the lawyer’s job is to do their best to defend the client. Similarly, my job is to provide the best possible opportunities for my players. Even though I might give my opinion and thoughts to players, I never stop a player from pursuing their dream because you never know the outcome.
Players that play at higher levels generally have better chances, but there are so many personal variables. How a player reacts when overseas, how they handle being alone, and how they adapt to new environments are crucial. The reports I get back from clubs after trials help me place players better suited for them, but it takes time and multiple trials to get accurate assessments.
"Do you think I can go pro?" is a question I can never definitively answer because there are too many variables and personal factors at play. My role is to facilitate opportunities and support players on their journeys. Let me know if you agree or disagree with my perspective. Share your thoughts in the comments below; I’d love to engage in this discussion.
Remember, persistence, adaptability, and resilience are key. Keep pushing forward, and don’t let a single opinion or setback determine your path.
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