EXCLUSIVE: Prominent Agent Describes the ‘Remarkable’ Bellingham Family as Truly Unique

In a significant summer transfer move, Jobe Bellingham, the younger brother of Jude Bellingham, has decided to leave English football and pursue his development at Borussia Dortmund, the prestigious German club. This noteworthy switch from Sunderland was smoothly arranged by the family.

For talented athletes like the Bellingham siblings, it seems reasonable to consider having their family represent them rather than opting for the conventional football agent. Many would argue this is a sensible choice, especially given the general perception of agents, who are often viewed as self-serving individuals focused solely on wringing the best deals for their benefit, sometimes to the detriment of genuine growth.

“You’re only seeing the ones where it’s working,” John candidly remarks.

“What you don’t see are parents who attempt to represent their children, only to stumble along the way.”

“In this case, the Bellingham family stands out due to the trust they’ve fostered. The sons have faith in their mother and father. They’re not just your typical family; they’re astute individuals.”

Read more: John Viola aims to shape the next generation of football agents

“I’ve encountered countless situations where promising young players come onto the scene, and their parents want to take on the role of representation,” Viola, a pioneer in becoming one of the UK’s first licensed football agents, shares.

“I often tell them they are doing their child a disservice by lacking the necessary experience, background, and understanding of what it takes to navigate a player’s career.”

“Many assume that because they know their child so well, they will excel in guiding their career.”

“The reality is, most will struggle, but there are notable exceptions. While I don’t know the Bellinghams personally, I am aware through mutual connections that they are intelligent and meticulous in their approach.”

A Frequently Challenging Path

Numerous top-tier players choose family members to represent them, often resulting in sensational stories tied to failed contracts and unusual demands.

Stars like Neymar, Adrien Rabiot, Marcus Rashford, and even Lionel Messi have family as their official representatives.

Neymar’s time at Barcelona, however, was marred by a series of high-profile legal disputes regarding his substantial £50 million transfer from Santos. Despite the controversies, Neymar Sr. maintains that he has nothing to hide.

On the other hand, French World Cup champion Adrien Rabiot is frequently critiqued for losing out on major transfers to clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal due to “familial mismanagement.”

John points out that many others have attempted—and failed—to guide their children through the complex terrain of professional football, and he typically counsels against it.

“Neymar’s father is a noteworthy example, albeit a controversial one. I appreciate controversy, but I’ve encountered many who want to represent their children and I question them: ‘What makes you qualified to negotiate such a deal?’

“What gives you the expertise to identify the right club for them? What transferable skill set do you possess that can provide the football insight that you might think you have?

“It’s a perilous journey that isn’t simple, as you have a personal relationship with your child. That’s often where the difficulty lies.”

“Moreover, bear in mind you can’t represent your child unless you’re licensed. In the past that was possible, but it’s not the case anymore.”

“I’m cautious when someone says, ‘let’s involve the family,’ but if the family possesses the right expertise, I’m fully supportive. They know their child better than anyone else.”

“If anyone wishes to pursue this path, I’m more than willing to assist, provided they join my team.

“So if your son is an exceptional player and you’re looking to support him, I say, ‘Let’s get you licensed; I’ll guide you on how it works.’”

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