Giovanni Becali, a prominent football agent, has acknowledged the growing challenges he faces in facilitating the transfer of Romanian players to teams abroad. The 74-year-old, who has successfully negotiated numerous deals over the years, expressed concern over the current state of Romanian football.
The remarks come as Romania prepares to face Sweden in a Nations League match on October 5 at 21:45, a contest that will be broadcast live on Antena 1 and Antena Play.
Becali pointed to a decline in Romanian teams’ presence in European competitions as a significant factor in his struggles. He noted that recent performances by the national team have not met expectations.
He specifically referenced the under-21 team’s disappointing 0-2 defeat to Finland in the Euro 2027 qualifiers, stating, “We lost without a chance. Finland, not Norway, Denmark, or Sweden, which have players taller than 1.90 meters who can play football. They beat us decisively.”
Giovanni Becali: “Our Relationships Can’t Overcome Current Challenges”
Becali further emphasized the difficulties in securing transfers even with established relationships in the football world. He lamented, “Some of us can no longer do this, as the world sees who we are. To transfer players, clubs need to be in European competitions. You need players on the national team and to qualify for finals, which we are failing to do.”
He concluded by reflecting on the changes within his agency, stating, “For my office, where three or four of my guys work, we have aged, but it will be tough for them. They will earn just enough to live decently, but achieving the results I once had will be difficult.”
