Probably the most important moment in the development of any amateur football player's career shall be the moment he / she is offered a first professional contract with a club.
Naturally, it is understandable that most players and their family members shall view this moment as an opportunity that should not be missed due to all the time, hard work, and resources invested in developing a player's career.
However, a player, and / or parent / family member handling a player's affairs, may want to consider a number of issues before signing a first professional contract.
It is important to consider some points if only to ensure that those signing the agreement fully understand their rights and obligations under the agreement.
In this post we summarize some points that would be helpful for you to consider.
The best option is to instruct an experienced lawyer to obtain detailed advise about the implications of signing such any professional agreement, but where that option is not available it shall be helpful to consider the following points:
POINTS TO CONSIDER
📝1. KNOW THE RULES OF THE GAME
For example, off-field conduct such as scholarships, transfers, gambling and general behaviour are areas that are regulated.
📝2. WHAT SORT OF CONTRACT CAN YOU AGREE WITH A CLUB IF YOU ARE UNDER 18?
Football (soccer) contracts are regulated by Associations and FIFA so be aware of the restrictions (i.e. maximum contract duration, under 18s, etc).
👨👦3. DO YOU NEED AN AGENT?
If an agent is appointed you should find a licensed agent to represent you.
📜4. CHECK THE CONTRACTUAL TERMS
(a) Consider the length of contract and if there is an option to terminate the agreement if the relationship does not work out;
(b) Consider how the commercial terms
shall affect you over the full duration of the agreement, and try negotiate to ensure the contract includes terms that support your career development;
(c) Be aware that if you are under 18 years of age there are restrictions on entering commercial agreements;
(d) Be aware of the parties to the contract.
🤝5. IS THE CONTRACT YOU ARE SIGNING A GOOD DEAL?
Don't just consider the financial package when deciding whether or not to sign a professional contract.
Try to make sure the deal set out in the contract allows you to develop to your full potential, as already mentioned above.
🏢6. TALK TO PROFESSIONALS
(Lawyers, Agent, Accountant, etc)
Where the club do not provide access to professionals, it is sensible to discuss the issue with lawyers, accountants and financial advisors, so you are completely aware of the implications of the relationship you are entering into with the club.
We hope you enjoyed this post.
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