Kevin-Prince Boateng Reveals Impact of Agent's Greed on His Career

Former AC Milan and Barcelona star Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed how a self-interested football agent negatively impacted the early stages of his career, nearly derailing his path before he could reach the heights that defined his later years in professional football.

Boateng, who officially retired from football in August 2023 at the age of 36, had a storied journey that saw him play for some of Europe’s most iconic clubs, including AC Milan, Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Schalke 04, and Tottenham Hotspur. Yet, behind his rise to the top was a struggle marked by poor guidance, broken trust, and a lack of proper support during his formative years.

Speaking at the TransferRoom Summit, Boateng opened up about the darker side of football that often goes unnoticed—specifically the actions of agents who prioritize quick profits over the well-being and development of their players.

“It’s a huge world, football,” Boateng said. “But not everything in it is positive. There are agents who are only in it for themselves—just looking for quick money. I remember I signed with a new club, and only ten days later, the coach told me, ‘I never wanted you.’ He said it was the sporting director who pushed for my signing. I was shocked. Naturally, I tried to call my agent, but his phone was off. He had completely disappeared.”

Boateng recounted another particularly painful moment when he joined Tottenham Hotspur back in 2007. It was supposed to be a major step forward in his career, but it instead became a turning point that highlighted the absence of real support from the people who were supposed to have his back.

“After signing with Spurs, I tried to call my agent. I’ve never spoken to him since. That was in 2007—and now it’s 2025. Can you imagine that? That kind of abandonment sticks with you. These guys just take the money and vanish. That’s the reality for many young players.”

The German-Ghanaian midfielder, known for his technical skills and versatility on the pitch, now wants to use his own experiences to make a difference for the next generation. Motivated by the mistakes and hardships he endured, Boateng has launched his own football agency called “Rookie and Champ.” The agency is dedicated to guiding young players, not just in terms of contracts and transfers, but in making sound, long-term decisions that align with both career success and personal well-being.

“I’ve seen what happens when young players are left alone to figure everything out. I want to be the kind of agent I never had—someone who actually cares and stays present,” Boateng said.

His agency’s name itself reflects the duality of a football career—the raw potential of a “rookie” and the polished excellence of a “champ.” Through this initiative, Boateng hopes to provide mentorship, transparency, and a sense of stability for upcoming talents who are vulnerable to exploitation.

His message to young footballers is clear: be cautious of those who are only interested in making fast money, and always seek guidance from people who genuinely have your best interests at heart.

Kevin-Prince Boateng’s story is not just a reflection of personal hardship but a call to action for reform in how young footballers are supported. Through honesty, reflection, and a desire to change the game from within, Boateng is turning his past pain into purpose—ensuring that others won’t have to walk the same difficult path alone.