By John Ogunsemore
Former Super Eagles striker, Brown Ideye has cautioned upcoming footballers against signing lengthy contracts with agents.
The 2013 AFCON winner made the appeal in a series of posts on X on Wednesday.
Ideye also raised an alarm about predatory antics of so-called benefactors-cum-agents who entrap young footballers.
The former Dynamo Kyiv striker said many young footballers lock down their talents by signing contracts with agents who promise to help them get to Europe, a dream that is often not actualised.
Ideye said, “This is for all the young players in Nigeria, don’t lock your talent down by signing a contract with someone because he promised to get you a club in Europe.
“And make sure your international passport is with you at all time, because no one has the right to hold someone else’s passport.”
The Enyimba striker added, “Someone buying you football shoes and giving you transportation money is not your agent, be smart.”
He queried why young footballers should sign lengthy agreements with agents who exploit their naivety.
“All the young players from 17 to 20 years of age have already signed with an agent. This is alarming.
“You keep the players for years and don’t what to work with anyone to help the players. You think of your pocket alone and not the future of the players.
“Some of them have no contact whatsoever to help these players.”
Ideye referred to existing FIFA Football Agent Regulations which stipulates that no representation agreement between a footballer and an agent must exceed two years.
“Player and Agent contract is for 2 years not more. After 2 years if he can’t get you a club home or abroad, you’re free to leave and make sure you leave with your international passport,” he said.