Kevin-Prince Boateng, a former Ghanaian international, has started a new chapter in his football career by establishing his own player agency, Rookie & Champ.
After retiring from professional football, Boateng is now focusing his energies on coaching the upcoming generation of players, initially in his native Berlin with plans to spread throughout the world.
Speaking at the TransferRoom Summit, Boateng reflected on a defining moment early in his career: “I went pro at eighteen. I was that lad—full of energy, full of dreams. And then I got sent to Tottenham. Ten days later, the coach told me he didn’t want me.”
That experience, he said, left a lasting impact and is now driving his commitment to ensure young players get the guidance he never had.
“Money, fame, the big club—they’re not always the right steps. That’s why I’m bringing my experience. I want to be there for my boys,” he said.
With Rookie & Champ, Boateng’s mission goes beyond technical development. His focus is on preparing players mentally and emotionally for the pressures of the professional game.
“You have a Rookie & Champ player at eighteen—he’s ready. He can stand in front of fifty thousand people and take that penalty,” he declared.
“If I’d had this kind of support, I’d have played ten straight years at Real Madrid,” Boateng continued, reflecting with a rare sincerity. Without a question.
Boateng’s career included 15 caps for Ghana, two goals for the Black Stars, and 521 club games with 76 goals.
