HOW PLAYERS IN KENYA CAN AVOID FAKE AGENTS DURING THE TRANSFER WINDOW

Fake agents have been a challenge in the football industry not only in Kenya but globally. They are individuals who misrepresent themselves as authorized agents or representatives of players, clubs, or other football entities.

Due to their scrupulous agendas, they often exploit players, clubs, and even unsuspecting third parties for personal gain, which can lead to various issues and complications.

KEFWA, in conjunction with FIFPRO and other football authorities such as FIFA and Football Kenya Federation , has been actively working to combat the issue of fake agents through regulatory measures, educational campaigns, and stricter licensing requirements for player agents.

These efforts aim to protect players, clubs, and the integrity of the football industry as a whole. However, despite these measures, the problem may still persist to some extent and that is why it is essential for players and clubs to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of any agent they work with to avoid falling victim.

According to KEFWA vice president Terry Ouko , more than 70% of players in several African countries have been approached by individuals claiming to be agents, with many left disillusioned by false promises. This, she notes, creates a dire need for continuous awareness so that players cannot fall prey.

”In the fast-paced and competitive world of football, players must be vigilant in protecting themselves from the menace of fake agents. By conducting extensive research, seeking legal advice, and building a reliable support network, players can safeguard their careers and aspirations from potential scams,” noted Terry.

With the ongoing fake agents campaign, FIFPRO, the global players’ union, has also joined forces with the Didier Drogba Foundation and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to combat this menace. The partnership aims to raise awareness, empower players, and provide them with the knowledge to avoid falling prey to deceptive agents.

Some of the challenges posed by fake agents in the football industry include player exploitation, contract disputes, financial irregularities, and transfer market manipulation where fake agents can interfere with deals, disrupt negotiations, and create unnecessary complications, leading to inefficiencies in the market.

How can professional football players in Kenya protect themselves from fake agents, ensuring a secure and successful football journey?

1.Conduct Extensive Research:

Before engaging with any agent, players should conduct thorough research to verify the agent’s legitimacy and track record. Check the agent’s background, past clients, and testimonials. Genuine agents will be registered with football governing bodies like FIFA, UEFA, or national football associations. Players can cross-check this information on official websites to ensure the agent is authorized to represent them.

2. Seek Legal Advice.

When dealing with contracts and negotiations, players should seek legal advice from reputable sports lawyers. Legal professionals with expertise in sports law can provide invaluable guidance in understanding contract terms and identifying any discrepancies that may indicate fraudulent behavior by an agent.

3.Say No to Upfront Payments.

Be cautious of agents who demand upfront payments or fees for their services. Legitimate agents generally work on a commission basis, receiving a percentage of the player’s earnings after successful deals. Avoid making any payments until contracts are signed and deals are officially sealed.

4.Watch Out for Unrealistic Promises:

Beware of agents who make unrealistic promises or guarantees. No agent can guarantee a player’s success or secure an immediate contract with a top-tier club. Genuine agents will be honest about the challenges and uncertainties in the football industry, avoiding false hopes and extravagant claims.

5.Build a Support Network.

Seek advice from experienced players, coaches, and mentors who can offer insights into reputable agents and the football industry. Building a support network helps players navigate through potential scams and keeps them informed about genuine opportunities.

6.Insist on Face-to-Face Meetings.

Whenever possible, insist on face-to-face meetings with potential agents. Meeting in person provides an opportunity to gauge the agent’s professionalism, credibility, and sincerity. Avoid agents who avoid personal meetings or always make excuses to delay them.

7.Protect Personal Information.

Players should never share sensitive personal information, such as bank details or identification documents, with an agent until they have been thoroughly vetted and a trustworthy relationship has been established.

8.Seek References.

Request references from other players the agent has represented in the past. Talking to former clients can provide valuable insights into the agent’s reliability, transparency, and level of commitment.

”Football is a journey that requires patience, hard work, and determination, and aligning with genuine agents can make all the difference in achieving long-term success on and off the field,” noted the vice president.

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