A cliché.

Everyone is aware of this.

But understanding is something different.

Shall we start by assuming that Football is a business, and like any business, relationships drive opportunities?

Seems fair to assume that.

Therefore, it’s also possible to assume that you can have all the Tactical Knowledge in the World, the best Scouting Reports, or even a UEFA Pro License, but if you’re not connected to the right people, your chances of breaking into top-level Football shrink dramatically. 

The truth? 

Football is a relationship-based industry. 

Not the easiest, not the more transparent, at times, but definitely a relationship-based industry.

The biggest deals, the best jobs, and the smartest Scouting moves often happen before they even hit the public eye. 

If you’re not part of the conversation, you’re already behind.

Unlike other industries, Football doesn’t operate solely on CVs, applications, and job boards.

Recruitment? 

Definitely, works differently, specially if out of Junior, or internship roles.

Clubs rely on trusted scouts and agents. 

Hiring a coach? 

Sporting Directors choose someone they’ve worked with before or who comes highly recommended. 

Landing an Academy or first-team role? 

Someone in the club probably knows someone who will vouch for you. 

And, to be clear, this it’s not corruption—it’s trust. 

Just like you trust some people to work around you and other you don’t.

Are you corrupt because of that?

I know it may not politically correct to say this, but it is what it is.

When a Club invests in a Coach, a Scout, or a Director, they need someone reliable, competent, and aligned with their Football Philosophy. 

Or, even, someone they recognize the capability to build one (probably, a better version of what they have currently).

The best way to prove that? 

Through people who already trust you. 

So the question becomes: are you communicating with people, to start?
How are you presenting your work?
You need someone to pay attention, surely.

If you’re not building that trust before you need it, you’ll always be behind those who are.

Most people think jobs in Football are publicly listed. 

They’re not. 

The best opportunities don’t get advertised, the biggest deals happen behind closed doors, and the smartest Clubs identify Talent long before anyone else. 

If you want to work in Scouting, Coaching, Sports Management, or even Player Representation, you need to be inside the right circles—because by the time a role is Public, it’s likely already been filled internally. 

This is why Agents, Club Executives, and Coaches spend more time building relationships than sending applications. 

In Football, your Network is your currency.

Now, I’m fully aware it’s not easy to communicate regularly, in front of a camera, or in texts.

Definitely harder than one thinks.

It’s always easy to criticize those who get exposed and stay behind curtains.

I’m fully aware of that and the risks that being in front of a camera can bring in one’s career.

Opting to be marginal, political correct, not taking opinions it’s easy.

To be a sheep, basically.

Not me, definitely not me.

With the good’s and bad’s attached, one needs to know the Path is looking to achieve.

So, starting by this point, let’s be clear: Networking isn’t just about sending LinkedIn messages saying, “Hi, I love Football, can you help me?” 

That’s a waste of time—for you and the person receiving it. 

Instead, you need to be where Football people are. 

Attend Coaching Conferences, Scouting Summits, and Transfer forums, whichever makes more sense to your Path.

Another strategy may be to follow Club Decision-Makers on LinkedIn and engage with their content. 

Or, to join relevant online Communities where real discussions are happening. 

But don’t just be present—offer Value. 

Share your insights on Football, write Scouting Reports, or provide a fresh perspective in discussions. 

If you meet someone, contribute before asking for help, even if it’s just an interesting observation about their work.

Additionally, think long-term, make a guide of your relationships.

Understand that building relationships it’s about consistency. 

Engage naturally and let relationships develop over time. 

A well-placed message or a small favor can go much further than a cold email when you’re desperate for an opportunity. 

Football people respect those who contribute to the Game, not those looking for a shortcut.

Find gaps to explore with your knowledge, offer Value.

Always, offer Value.

Don’t just Network when you need something.

Please don’t.

Of course, there are mistakes that can kill your Network. 

If you only focus on short-term gains, people will see through it. 

If you treat Networking as a sales pitch, you’ll lose credibility fast. 

And if you don’t follow up after meeting someone, the connection is gone. 

A simple “Great to meet you, enjoyed the conversation on X topic” keeps the door open for future opportunities.

You might think Football is global, not only at the top level, but specially at the top level, it’s a very small Industry.

Coaches, Scouts, and Directors all talk, and your Reputation travels faster than your CV ever will. 

If you want to build a career in Football, start Networking before you need it, be part of the conversation, and put yourself where Opportunities happen. 

The right connections won’t replace Competence, but they will get you into rooms you wouldn’t enter otherwise. 

And in football, that can be everything.

That chance you need.

That chance I need.

That chance we are looking for.

Play smart, with intent.

And (for the 3rd time purposely) add Value.

How do you see other people growing in your area?

Is there anything they are doing (or have done) you don’t?
Who’s the most prominent person in your area of expertise?
What are they doing?

Study, analyze and understand how can you do it in your own way!

What do you think still needs developments?
How’s been your experience?

What’s missing?

Let’s discuss, I’m always open for a good discussion!