What does a football scout do?
A football scout finds and assesses players, usually for a club, sometimes for an agent. They watch matches live and on video, study data, and write reports on whether a player could do a job for their employer. A scout recommends players but does not represent them or negotiate their contracts, which is an agent's job.
On this page
The work
- Watching matches, live and on video, often several a week.
- Writing reports: position, strengths, weaknesses, level, and a recommendation.
- Using data to find players worth watching, and to check what was seen.
- Following a shortlist over weeks or months, not judging on one game.
- Building contacts with coaches and other scouts.
What a good report covers
The player's role and how he fits the club's style, what he does with and without the ball, how he does against stronger opponents, his physical level, and a clear verdict: sign, watch again, or pass.
Scout or agent?
A scout assesses players. An agent represents them and negotiates their moves. Under the FIFA Football Agent Regulations only a licensed agent may perform agent services, so a scout who starts negotiating for a player needs a licence (article 11).
Scouting below the top tier
Many clubs below the top division have no paid scouts. Italy's licence for Serie B asks for a sporting director but not a scout (FIGC, Manuale Licenze Nazionali 2026/2027). Recruitment often rests on one or two people, and scouts often work freelance or for agencies.
See what clubs need before you pick up the phone.
Every request has to state the salary, net or gross, and the contract length. Propose the players you represent. FIFA licensed agents, intermediaries and scouts all register free. No subscription, no fee per player.
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Questions people also ask
Do scouts need a licence?
Not to scout. A licence is needed to act as an agent, representing a player or negotiating for him.
Can scouts register on FTBL Exchange?
Yes. Scouts register free and are labelled as Scouts to clubs.