I want to talk about the three biggest football scams that have plagued the industry for decades. Whether you're a player, a parent, or someone who knows someone interested in football, reading this could save you and your loved one's thousands of dollars and prevent complete heartbreak.
I promise you that. For those of you who don't know me, my name is Alan Deriard. I am a full-time football agent and the founder of Australia’s largest player agency, Elite Football.
Scam 1: Fake Agents
It’s incredibly difficult for someone outside the industry to identify fake agents. These scammers often promote themselves on social media, showcasing fake signings and achievements. Here’s how the scam works:
False Promises
Fake agents reach out to players through DMs, praising their highlights and offering trials.
Residency Scams
They often have their own apartments or houses, renting them out to players at inflated prices, making a profit off the rent while providing low-quality training at random, low-level clubs.
Even well-meaning contacts, like coaches or friends, might unknowingly connect you to these fake agents, leading to a long chain of commissions with no real opportunity. The harsh reality is that many people in the industry don’t know any more than you do about what’s legitimate.
Scam 2: Fake Academies
The term “academy” is widely used and often misused. In Australia, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne, there are hundreds of so-called academies that don’t deliver on their promises. Here’s what you need to watch out for:
Licensing Scams
Some academies use licenses from well-known clubs like Barcelona or West Ham to attract players. They sell the dream of going overseas and training with these clubs, but it’s often just an experience with no real opportunities.
No Real Connections
These academies are often separate entities from the actual clubs and can’t offer genuine pathways to professional football.
Scam 3: Football Tours
Football tours are another big scam in the industry. Companies sell these tours with promises of playing against big-name clubs and getting scouted, but here’s the reality:
High Costs
These tours can cost up to $35,000 for a two-week trip...
Misleading Matches
You might play against teams wearing famous kits, but these are often just local kids in licensed gear, not the actual youth teams of those clubs.
False Hope
While some players enjoy the experience, it’s crucial to understand that these tours rarely lead to professional opportunities.
SO how do I Protect myself from the biggest football scams?
Research
Look at the websites and social media of the agents or academies. Check if they have a history of genuine signings and reach out to players they’ve worked with.
Verify Claims
Message the players or their contacts to verify if their experiences were legitimate.
Understand What You’re Paying For
If you’re paying for a tour or academy, ensure you understand whether it’s purely an experience or if there’s a real chance for professional progression.
Football is a tough industry, and scams are rampant. Awareness is your best defense. By understanding these common scams, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to false promises. My mission is to step on those who try to take advantage of people's dreams and hopes.
I hope this helps you become more aware of the scams in the football world. Stay vigilant, do your research, and make informed decisions about your football journey.
If you are interested in a FREE consultation with Australia's #1 Football Agency, please click below 👇
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