Are you passionate about the world of football agents? Well, you've come to the right place! StrawPoll has assembled an all-star lineup of the most famous football agents, who have played pivotal roles in shaping the careers of legendary players and negotiating record-breaking contracts. Now it's your turn to step into the spotlight and vote for your top choice or suggest a missing name in Wintips compelling ranking of "Who is the best agents in football?" right here!
The best agents in football in history
1. Jonathan Barnett
Jonathan Barnett made an impression not only by representing football players but also by managing prominent boxers. He is the agent of Lennox Lewis, the renowned Canadian-born British boxing legend. In 2005, Jonathan was involved in a controversy along with Ashley Cole.
He orchestrated an unauthorized move to Chelsea without Arsenal's consent, the club to which Cole was contracted. Following this incident, he largely shifted his focus to behind-the-scenes activities and lower-profile ventures. However, he remained a prominent super-agent in football, representing high-profile clients such as Wojciech Szczesny, Joe Hart, Ashley Cole, Darren Bent, and Gareth Bale.
2. Jorge Mendes - One of the best agents in football
If there is one agent who enjoys the utmost trust from both players and coaches, it is Jorge Mendes. The Portuguese 'super-agent' excels in player management and maintains strong connections with many of his fellow countrymen who are football stars. Mendes's most successful deal propelled his name onto the world stage, cementing his status as one of football's most influential agents.
The transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United to Real Madrid took place in the summer of 2009. Not only did CR7 contribute greatly, but the Spanish giants also owe a debt of gratitude to Mendes. Only Ronaldo could help Real Madrid compete with Messi's Barcelona in their battle for dominance for nearly a decade. Mendes's strength lies in his keen observational skills; he quickly identifies exceptional footballing talents.
3. Mino Raiola - One of the best agents in football
Mino Raiola is considered one of the best agents in football. He is currently a renowned super-agent in the football world, a name that many clubs see as a "thorn in their side." However, Raiola earns his clients' trust by always prioritizing their interests. Paul Pogba, Matthijs De Ligt, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Marco Verratti, and Erling Haaland are among Raiola's top clients.
Based on calculations of the total value of contracts executed by the 53-year-old super-agent, the figure stands at £621 million. This figure is expected to rise significantly, as Raiola represents numerous world-class players.
4. Pini Zahavi
The purchase of Chelsea by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich in 2003 was a turning point in the career of super-agent Pini Zahavi. Zahavi played a key role in Chelsea's recruitment strategy, particularly during the club's early rebuilding phase.
However, there's more to Zahavi than just that. When it comes to negotiating skills and revolutionizing football transfers, Zahavi surpasses even Mino Raiola and Jorge Mendes. The deal that truly shocked the football world was Neymar's transfer from Barcelona to PSG in 2017. Officially, Neymar's father was the representative of the Brazilian forward, but it was Zahavi who orchestrated and directed that groundbreaking transfer.
5. Kia Joorabchian - Among the best agents in football
Joorabchian has emerged as a significant figure in the world of football agency. His involvement in high-profile transfers has earned him widespread recognition and considerable influence within the industry. One of his most notable deals was the transfer of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano to West Ham United in 2006, which was highly controversial in the football world.
The unexpected transfer of Tevez and Mascherano to West Ham surprised many, given the high profile of the players involved. Joorabchian's involvement in this transfer propelled him into the spotlight, cementing his status as a top football agent. Despite initial skepticism and controversy over the deal, it ultimately allowed Tevez and Mascherano to prove themselves in the Premier League.
6. Paul Stretford - One of the best agents in football
Decades ago, Paul Stretford placed his trust in a 16-year-old footballer. His gamble paid off, as that 16-year-old was none other than Wayne Rooney—who went on to become a legend at Manchester United and a symbol of English football.
Paul has been the key figure supporting Shrek's career until now. Besides representing players, Paul also demonstrated his influence in football by managing renowned coaches, including Roberto Mancini and Harry Redknapp.
7. Volker Struth
Volker Struth is one of the most influential football agents in Germany. He represents several top players, including Marco Reus, Mario Götze, and Toni Kroos, solidifying his status as a key figure in the football industry. Struth's early life was filled with adversity and hardship.
After losing his mother and grandfather at a young age and being abandoned by his father, he was raised by his grandmother. Growing up in challenging circumstances, Struth faced daily struggles to make ends meet and find food. These hardships instilled in him a sense of resilience, humility, and determination.
8. Stefano Castagna - One of the best agents in football
Castagna is a renowned football agent representing top stars like Paulo Dybala, Federico Chiesa, and Nicolò Barella. Known for negotiating high-value transfers, he has played a key role in some of football's most sensational deals.
Leveraging his vast network and deep knowledge of the football market, Castagna has become a key figure in the industry. Known for his sharp negotiation skills and success in securing lucrative deals, Castagna has gained widespread recognition and respect.
Conclusion
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See also: Best free agents fantasy football all of time you not know
