Football super-agent Rafaela Pimenta has called for significant reforms to the sport’s transfer system ahead of the impending deadline day. Pimenta, who represents several high-profile clients including Liverpool manager Arne Slot and Premier League stars Erling Haaland and Matthijs de Ligt, asserts that clubs currently hold too much power over players.
Having taken over Mino Raiola’s client roster following his death nearly four years ago, the 53-year-old Pimenta emphasizes the need for a more balanced approach within the transfer process. With the deadline for Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, set for 7pm on February 2nd, Liverpool is in talks to finalize a deal for defender Lutsharel Geertruida, who is on loan at Sunderland from RB Leipzig.
In an interview with the BBC, Pimenta expressed concern for the treatment of players in transfer negotiations, stating, “Players are sometimes hostages of situations.” She highlighted the emotional toll that the current system imposes, pointing out that the financial demands of clubs often lead to situations where players are left disappointed when potential moves fall through. “There’s always a player crying because he could have gone, needed to go, and a club said they want £1m more,” she stated.
Pimenta reminisced about a time when football retained a more humane aspect, noting that football directors or club owners once had special relationships with players and were more likely to assist them in their career moves. “Today, football is becoming so much of a business that there is a risk that players become an asset on the balance sheet; an asset has no voice, no feelings, no human needs,” she explained.
The current discourse surrounding football transfers gained traction following a landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice last October, which deemed certain FIFA transfer regulations anti-competitive and contrary to EU laws on freedom of movement. This decision stemmed from a lawsuit by Lassana Diarra regarding a failed transfer in 2014. The ruling has been lauded by FIFPRO, the global representative body for professional footballers, indicating a potential shift in the landscape of football labor rights.
Pimenta’s advocacy for reform reflects broader concerns within the sport and suggests a hopeful trend towards a more equitable and player-friendly transfer system. As the transfer window closes, her calls for change highlight the urgent need for a reassessment of the power dynamics within football.