Former Ghanaian international and football star Kevin-Prince Boateng has launched a new football agency, Rookie & Champ, to help guide the next generation of footballers.
After retiring from professional football in 2023 at the age of 36, Boateng is now focused on mentoring young players and helping them avoid the mistakes he made during his own career.
Boateng, who was born in Berlin, had an eventful playing career, representing 15 different clubs across Europe. He played for top teams such as AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, Tottenham Hotspur, Hertha BSC, and FC Barcelona. Now, he is using his experience to support rising stars, especially those from his hometown of Berlin.
Speaking at a TransferRoom summit, Boateng shared how his own journey inspired this new mission.
“At 18, I turned pro, and I was loving every minute of it. But then I was sent to Tottenham, and just ten days in, the coach told me he didn’t want me,” he said.
This moment left a lasting impact on Boateng and sparked his desire to provide young players with the guidance he never had.
“Money, fame, or joining a big club isn’t always the right move. That’s why I want to share my experience and be there for my boys,” he said.
He added, “With Rookie & Champ, we have a player who’s ready for everything at 18. He’s prepared to take a penalty in front of 50,000 fans.”
Boateng admitted that if he had received proper support early in his career, things could have turned out differently. “If I had had this kind of support, I would have played for Real Madrid for ten years straight. Absolutely.”
In his interview, Boateng also reflected on his career path and decision not to become a coach. “I always dreamt of being a coach, but then I realized I don’t have enough patience,” he said. Instead, he decided to work directly with players as an agent and mentor.
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