Family confirms death of football agent, Mino Raiola, who passed away at age 54

Information reaching Kossyderrickent has it that popular football agent, Mino Raiola, has died at the age of 54. His cause of death is allegedly linked to cancer, but it’s still sketchy. (Read More Here).

His family member released an official statement, confirming his passing away. 

He spoke several languages, including Italian and Dutch, and got his break in football in 1993 when he was asked to help with Dennis Bergkamp’s transfer from Ajax to Inter Milan in 1993 by the player’s then agent.

Mr Raiola landed a job at the agency but then set up on his own. As of his death he was ranked fourth in the world in Forbes list of sports agents, with a reported $84.5m earned in commissions and $847.7m in his players’ contracts.

In his defence of his player’s interests the agent was notorious for igniting the fury of fans and of managers, including Sir Alex Ferguson, Pep Guardiola, and Jurgen Klopp.

Mr Raiola had endured a particularly controversial relationship with Manchester United, with former boss Ferguson blaming him for Pogba’s early exit from the club.

However he represented several players who later joined following Sir Alex’s reign, including Ibrahimovic, although his involvement was reported to be among the reasons the club did not pursue Haaland.

His death was also confirmed by popular sports journalist, F. Romano, who wrote: “Terrible news. Football agent Mino Raiola has passed away after illness, he’s been sick for months, he was 54.

“Raiola was the agent of many football stars like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paul Pogba, Erling Haaland, Pavel Nedved and many others.” 

Family statement reads:

“In infinite sorrow we share the passing of the most caring and amazing football agent that ever was. Mino fought until the end with the same strength he put on negotiation tables to defend our players. As usual, Mino made us proud and never realised it. 

“Mino touched so many lives through his work and wrote a new chapter in the history of modern football. His presence will forever be missed. 

“Mino’s mission of making football a better place for players will continue with the same passion. We thank everybody for huge amount of support received during these difficult times and ask for respect to the privacy of family and friends in this moment of grief.”