Former Ghana international Kevin-Prince Boateng has stepped into a new chapter of his football journey with the launch of his own player agency, Rookie & Champ.
Following his retirement from professional football, Boateng is now channeling his energy into mentoring the next generation of players—starting in his hometown of Berlin, with ambitions to expand globally.
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.
Reflecting with a rare dose of candor, Boateng added, “If I’d had this kind of support, I’d have played ten straight years at Real Madrid. No doubt.”
Boateng’s career spanned 521 club appearances with 76 goals, alongside 15 caps for Ghana, scoring twice for the Black Stars.
