He discussed the life of football agents, the allure of Montenegrin football, and the challenges of club negotiations. Vincenzo Cavaliere, an Italian representing notable players such as Romelu Lukaku, Mehdi Taremi, and Aleksa Mereta, shared his insights.

His roster also includes players from this region…

– Indeed, we have notable names such as Andrej Kramaric, Marko Livaja, and Dominik Kotarsky, while in Montenegro we represent Bodin Tomašević. Interestingly, we are the agency that typically retains players the longest throughout their careers, indicating our effectiveness. Many former players like Patrisa Stage, Pablo Zabaleta, and Dusan Baste continue to work with us,” Kavaljere told “Vijesti”.

You mentioned Tomašević, who transferred from Buducnost to Bologna this summer. How appealing is the Montenegrin market for agents?

– Montenegrin football is quite intriguing, particularly the 2006 and 2009 generations. I believe many players from the fifth league level will emerge from these cohorts. Clubs are doing well in supporting young talent, which is crucial for sustaining teams in this region – Kavaljere emphasized.

I FORESEE A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR MONTENEGRINS IN KALĆ

Alongside Tomašević, several other Montenegrin players have moved to Italy in recent years, including Nikola Krstović (Leće), Vasilije Adžić (Juventus), and young Andrija Vukoj (Inter). How suitable is Italian football for them?

– Italy is part of the top five leagues, and succeeding in any of them is exceptionally challenging. The gap between Montenegrin and Italian football is vast, making adaptation difficult, yet the players mentioned possess considerable talent, and I see a bright future ahead of them. Ultimately, skill and dedication determine a young player’s success wherever they may go.

Why is it essential for football players to have agents?

– Unfortunately, football agents have a negative reputation in the Balkans. This is often due to those who operate unprofessionally, creating challenges for serious agents like us. Every player, regardless of stature, should have representation. At the start of their career, an agent should mentor players, helping them grow, and later guide them in their decisions. An agent is a professional and it’s a complex role requiring connections with clubs, meetings with owners, directors, and coaches – Kavaljere noted, adding:

– I represent 34 players personally, and our agency has over 100 in total. If I were to lie or deceive, I’d have to be Albert Einstein to keep track of it all. It’s simpler to always be honest and transparent. An agent’s reputation is vital, and to achieve that, one must operate with integrity and efficiency.

I HAVE MIXED FEELINGS ABOUT ĐUKANOVIC’S TRANSFER TO STANDARD

Another Montenegrin talent illustrates that not everything unfolds as planned. Viktor Djukanovic faced challenges at Standard Liege, arriving at a financially troubled club where he lacked the coach’s trust, Ivana Leka.

– Players and agents occasionally part ways for various reasons, as was the case with Viktor and me. However, I’m pleased that he speaks positively about me in Montenegro, which indicates our collaboration was beneficial despite its conclusion – Kavaljere emphasized.

Djukanovic initially left Buducnost for Sweden.

– I felt proud of his move to Hammarby, even though I didn’t facilitate it. I valued the choice for player development over a financially lucrative offer from Sassuolo. He thrived at Hammarby; it’s likely he could have developed there too.

This was followed by a loan to Standard.

– I can’t take pride in that. The coach who initially wanted him didn’t give him a chance, unfortunately leading to disappointment. In the end, Đukanović opted for Dunajska Streda, even when we had a more favorable option. Sometimes you have to make swift decisions as clubs have immediate needs. Regardless, I have full faith in him. Đuka is an exceptional talent and will undoubtedly succeed – Kavaljere assured.

What transfers make you proud?

– Staying within our Balkan context, I’m proud of Kramarić’s transfer to Leicester, Marcel Brozović to Inter, as well as David Colina and Kelvin Jeboa to Augsburg, and Kotarski to PAOK. I take pride in Tomašević’s transfer; selling a player without an EU passport is never easy in Italy, especially to a Champions League team. Thankfully, Bodin is thriving in Bologna, and it bodes well for the Montenegrin national team – Kavaljere noted.

NEGOTIATIONS WITH PEOPLE FROM THE FUTURE ARE SMOOTH.

Are there clubs that pose negotiation challenges? Kavaljere suggests there’s always room for a mutually beneficial outcome.

– It depends on the individuals involved. Clubs are made up of people; if they are reasonable, they should strive for win-win outcomes. Success in any business requires happiness for all parties. If that’s the aim, negotiations are straightforward with any club – Kavaljere stated.

In terms of easy collaboration, one Montenegrin club stands out.

– I must commend Buducnost’s management—both past and present. From the outset, everyone has focused on serving the best interests of Buducnost, while also valuing player welfare. It is incredibly easy for an agent to work with the Podgorica club – Kavaljere concluded.

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