The third edition of the African Congress of Players’ Agents commenced in Rabat this week, with a focus on shaping the future of football in Africa through the vital role of player agents.
The three-day event, organized by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) in collaboration with FIFA, provided a platform for discussion on the evolving landscape of African football.
Opening the congress, FRMF President Fouzi Lekjaa delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the critical role of agents in the ongoing development of football across Africa.
According to Lekjaa, agents are no longer just intermediaries in player transfers; they are essential partners in fostering the growth of the sport on the continent.
“African football is undergoing rapid transformation, but its continued progress depends on strengthening all its key components—clubs, national teams, finances, infrastructure, and, most importantly, the support structure for players.
Agents are pivotal in this equation,” Lekjaa said, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to development. He pointed out that agents play an indispensable role in managing the careers of players, ensuring their success both on and off the pitch, and helping to increase the global influence of African talent.
One of the primary themes of the congress is the training and professional development of agents. Lekjaa stressed the importance of educating agents to ensure they are well-equipped to navigate the complex, ever-evolving world of football transfers and player management.
He underscored the importance of African agents gaining influence not only within Africa but also on the international stage, enabling them to manage African talent globally.
“Africa’s football future is closely linked to the success of its players,” Lekjaa continued. “But to ensure that African players are fully supported, we must ensure that agents are properly trained and equipped to manage their careers, both at home and abroad.
Our goal is to raise the standard of agents in Africa so that they can play a significant role in global football.”
The congress, which brings together leading football professionals, agents, and industry experts, aims to provide a comprehensive platform for dialogue on the challenges and opportunities facing African football.
With the rise of African players in major European leagues and the growing prominence of African competitions, the need for skilled, well-versed agents has never been more pressing.
As the opening ceremony drew to a close, a landmark agreement was signed between the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and the International University of Rabat.
The partnership, formalized by Lekjaa and university president Noureddine Mouaddib, will focus on the development and training of football agents, with an emphasis on enhancing the professional standards of agents within Moroccan and African football.
This collaboration is set to provide a strong foundation for the education and certification of future agents, ensuring that they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the increasingly globalized world of football management.
Both Lekjaa and Mouaddib expressed their excitement about the long-term impact this partnership will have on the future of African football.
“We believe this partnership will be a game-changer,” said Mouaddib. “By training the next generation of agents, we are not only improving the management of African talent, but we are also contributing to the overall development of African football.”
The congress is expected to continue for the next two days, with additional sessions dedicated to various topics, including the regulatory framework for agents, the evolving dynamics of player transfers, and strategies for increasing African football’s competitiveness on the world stage.
The discussions are set to play a key role in shaping the future of the sport, particularly as African football continues to expand its global reach.
With key industry leaders in attendance, the congress is seen as a crucial step toward empowering the next generation of football agents and ensuring African players have the representation and support they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive and interconnected football world.
