Player agents are the people who watch the most matches. The visible tip of the iceberg of their profession is known and often criticized: they organize transfers and receive a fee that ensures a lifestyle worthy of professional players.
However, their profession has evolved. They observe players to gauge their abilities. To do this, they visit the training grounds of training centers, their little notebook as a work tool. They take notes. Thus, they are capable of judging the characteristics of players and able to provide an objective critique.
Thierry Dubois, agent of notably Jérôme Rothen and Mathieu Bodmer, shares his opinion on the recruitment of the two clubs on the French Riviera:
“As for Nice’s recruitment, I would say that Antonneti knows Rool well having already had him under his command at Bastia. The others (Tchato, Fanni, Kone, Yahia, Bagayoko) are for me recruits who must prove that they are also, and especially, reinforcements; Ligue 1 is difficult if there aren’t multiple players of very high D1 level (8 to 10 in the squad, about 2 to 3 per line). At first glance, Nice seems set to play for survival… which will be the lot of quite a few teams, but who knows, maybe Le Gym will manage to surprise and defy the most cautious predictions, it would be a shame, in my opinion, for such a club to drop back to D2. The recruitment has been thoughtful to improve the squad. To be continued…
As for Monaco, they already have a solid base. Regarding the newcomers, ‘Gerard’ I don’t really know his level but his resume speaks for itself. Maoulida and Sorlin are not the equivalent of Rothen or Giuly but are good D1 players who, in the technical mold advocated by ASM, can make their mark ‘à la Deschamps’ provided they elevate their level of play a bit since, with Monaco, it’s the top of the table that is targeted!
But are they there as ‘replacements’ for Kapo and Meriem?
Meriem has undeniable technical qualities and game vision. His stint in a team that plays sophisticated football should benefit him provided he consistently raises his level of play and finds the exact place that suits him on the field. Sometimes a connecting midfielder, sometimes number 10, sometimes a winger. To improve and contribute to the team, Didier Deschamps will need to find a fixed position for him.
The season of a World Cup, if France qualifies, will be an additional motivation for him and I see him doing well this season.
As for Kapo, he’s an unknown as he possesses great qualities but is coming off a blank season… He must be eager to return to the highest level and we must not forget that he has had a taste of the French team. He might think of returning if Monaco starts the season on fire. We should find this club at the top provided, however, that the blend happens quickly.
So, the two neighbors on the French Riviera are not in the same situation, finances dictate, but we will see who will manage to fulfill their off-season ambitions.”