With an impressive roster of clients including Erling Haaland, Paul Pogba, and Matthijs de Ligt, Rafaela Pimenta stands as one of the most influential agents in the realm of football. In an exclusive interview with Flashscore, Pimenta offers a rare glimpse into her life and career, her collaboration with the legendary Mino Raiola, and her unique perspective as a woman navigating the complex world of football business.
The Unexpected Path to Football Agency
Our conversation with Pimenta, which began on a slightly delayed Zoom call, was scheduled for thirty minutes but extended beyond that due to the engrossing nature of her stories. Pimenta’s journey into football started almost by accident. With a degree in international law from Sao Paulo, she was initially teaching in Brazil. It was through a friend that she first stepped into the football world, attending a meeting that introduced her to Rivaldo and Cesar Sampaio, who were then setting up a football club.
At that meeting, she met Mino Raiola, who challenged her understanding of Brazilian football law. This encounter, where she gracefully stepped back after realizing Raiola’s depth of knowledge, led to a pivotal moment a year later. Raiola reached out to her, impressed by her honesty and willingness to disagree with him. This marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership.
Building a Legacy with Mino Raiola
Pimenta’s anecdote about her first football transfer highlights the chaotic and fast-paced nature of the industry. Tasked with accompanying a player to Argentina with assurances that all arrangements were in place, she quickly discovered that nothing was finalized. Her ability to adapt and find solutions in such high-pressure situations set the tone for her career.
When asked about her reputation for discretion, Pimenta emphasized that it stems from her legal background, where client confidentiality is paramount. She believes that agents should support their clients from the background, ensuring their success without overshadowing them. This principle of discretion, she argues, is essential in maintaining professionalism and client trust.
A Partnership of Equals
Contrary to popular belief, Pimenta clarified that she co-founded the agency with Raiola, rather than joining it later. She stressed the importance of recognizing the contributions of women in football, advocating for a balanced narrative that highlights their roles and achievements. This point is crucial not only for setting the record straight but also for inspiring other women to pursue their ambitions in the sport.
The Transfer of Erling Haaland
The discussion turned to the high-profile transfer of Erling Haaland to Manchester City. Pimenta was candid about the emotional challenges she faced after Raiola’s passing. Managing such significant transfers without her long-time partner was bittersweet. Despite the professional success, the absence of Raiola, who had been a constant presence in these moments, was deeply felt.
Pimenta’s approach to managing Haaland’s transfer was rooted in the longstanding relationship and trust they had built over the years. She refrained from delving into specific details of the transfer out of respect for her client and the principles of discretion she upholds.
The Role of Women in Football
Pimenta’s journey to becoming one of the most influential agents in football was not without its challenges, especially as a woman in a male-dominated field. She recounted the early days when she and Raiola would frequent a bar near AC Milan’s facilities, hoping for brief opportunities to network with key figures in Italian football. This persistence and strategic thinking were instrumental in establishing their agency’s reputation.
Despite the progress, Pimenta acknowledges that women in football still face significant hurdles. She shared anecdotes illustrating the casual sexism that persists in the industry, such as when a client’s success was attributed to a male colleague rather than her. She emphasized the importance of preparation, knowledge, and resilience in overcoming these obstacles.
Paul Pogba and the Importance of Support
Paul Pogba’s description of Pimenta as his “business mum” speaks volumes about the depth of their professional and personal relationship. Pimenta has been a steadfast presence in Pogba’s career, supporting him through significant milestones and challenges. She refrained from discussing ongoing issues, such as Pogba’s doping allegations, out of respect for the legal process and her client’s privacy.
Balancing Professionalism and Personal Life
A typical week for Pimenta is anything but typical. Constantly on the move, she adapts to the unpredictable nature of football transfers and negotiations. Her flexible approach and ability to remain calm under pressure are essential traits for success in this field. Despite the hectic schedule, she maintains a sense of humor and perspective, crucial for managing the demands of her job.
Advice for Aspiring Football Agents
For those aspiring to enter the world of football agency, Pimenta offers valuable advice: be prepared for hard work, continuous learning, and sacrifice. The profession requires more than just knowledge of football; it demands understanding physiology, nutrition, psychology, and legal frameworks. Passion and a genuine desire to support players are key to enduring the challenges and achieving success.
Pimenta also highlights the importance of integrity and respect for the rules. She advocates for agents to work collaboratively with other professionals to provide comprehensive support for their clients. This holistic approach not only benefits the players but also elevates the profession.
Rafaela Pimenta’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to her clients. Her journey from a law professor in Brazil to one of the most influential football agents in the world is a testament to the power of hard work, integrity, and passion. As she continues to navigate the complexities of the football world, Pimenta remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring agents, particularly women, proving that with dedication and perseverance, they too can achieve greatness in the beautiful game.