Persistence and Knowledge Does

Most football players are taught to push through. Train harder. Play through the pain. But when it comes to the business side of football, those same players often struggle.

They think the FIFA Agent Licence is the goal.
It’s not.
It’s the starting line.

I see new agents mess this up all the time.
They pass the exam. Then think they’ve made it.
They don’t build networks.
They don’t study the market.
They chase clubs with no plan.
Some get lucky with one transfer — then vanish.

Luck isn’t a career plan.
If you want to last, you need knowledge, relationships, and relentless discipline.

Want to make it in the football business?
Here’s what really matters:

1. Know your objective inside out

If you’re trying to represent players —
Ask yourself:

– What type of player do you want to work with?
– What are their short- and long-term goals?
– What level are they at — and what’s realistic for their next move?

You can’t sell a player if you don’t understand what they need and where they fit.

Don’t just chase any opportunity.
Study the leagues.
Study the clubs.
Learn who’s in charge, how they recruit, and what they pay.

2. Have a plan — not just ambition

Most new agents wing it.

Real professionals map the route.
You should know:

– What markets to focus on
– What deals to target
– What your next 5 moves are

This is how top agents operate.
They play chess, not poker.

You wouldn’t take a trial without training.
So why approach a club without a strategy?

3. Break it down — step by step

Say your goal is to get a player into a League One club.
Ask yourself:

– Who’s the sporting director?
– Who makes final decisions?
– What kind of players do they sign?
– Can your player tick every box on their checklist?

Then build your steps:

– Build the relationship
– Get your player’s footage and CV right
– Send the right message, at the right time
– Follow up without being annoying

4. Don’t be scared to pivot

Maybe the player doesn’t get that trial.
Maybe the club signs someone else.
That doesn’t mean your plan failed.
It just means you adjust.

Football is fast.
Managers change. Clubs sack people.
You must adapt — quickly.

Smart agents move with the wind.
They don’t sulk or blame others.
They re-route.

5. Failure isn’t the enemy — ignorance is

You will get ignored.
Clubs will say no.
Players will walk away.

If you’re serious about working in this space, get used to rejection.

Don’t take it personally.
Take it apart.
What did you miss?
What could you do better next time?

Every failed move is data.

6. Train your mindset — every day

In football, physical training is obvious.
But how often do you train your mindset?

Your brain needs reps too.

– Read industry reports
– Watch transfer trends
– Learn what clubs are looking for
– Ask questions to people with more experience than you

This business is brutal.
But the people who stick with it, learn, and keep going — they win.

Becoming an agent isn’t about passing an exam.
It’s about building a business.**

You need to:

– Work smart
– Learn fast
– Be consistent
– Build relationships
– Think long-term

Persistence alone isn’t enough.
You need the right tools.
The right knowledge.
And the patience to build something real.

That’s what we teach at Sports BE. We don’t sell dreams. We show you what works.

Want to work in football? Stop waiting for luck.
Learn the game behind the game.

What’s Next?

If you’re preparing for the FIFA Football Agent Exam, understanding these rules is essential. Join our online training sessions every Monday and Thursday or attend our 2-day workshop in Manchester on June 10-11 to get fully prepared.

If you’re serious about becoming a FIFA Licensed Football Agent, Sports BE can help you achieve your career goals.

Ready to start? Join Sports BE’s FIFA Agent Training Today