I am Boubou Diakite , a New entrepreneur from Paris developing a business in football scouting, player analysis and consultancy. My host entrepreneur, Jim Totem, works with Empire scouting network / Brandsen sports in The Hague. I joined Erasmus For Young Entrepreneurs to gain practical experience in professional scouting , football analytics and business development. My objective was to learn how to structure and commercialise scouting and analytics services, develop my professional network and improve my understanding of client acquisition. I also wanted to use the exchange to strengthen my entrepreneurial skills and prepare the development of my own independent activity in France, while exploring opportunities between the French, Dutch and west African football markets.
During my EYE exchange, I worked closely with my Host Entrepreneur on football scouting, player profiling, video analysis and business development. I learned and applied the FGA methodology and contributed to player profiling projects across different leagues. I also worked on collective match analysis using professional tools and developed market research for potential clients in France. Other activities included client prospecting, networking, producing football analysis content, exploring opportunities in West Africa and contributing to a proposal targeting the Malian Football Federation. My Host provided regular guidance, feedback and business insights, while progressively giving me more autonomy. This created a collaborative relationship combining learning, practical work and entrepreneurship.
The exchange has strengthened both my technical and entrepreneurial skills. I have developed my knowledge of professional scouting, player profiling, video analysis and the commercial side of football consultancy. I have also gained a better understanding of how to identify potential clients, structure a service offer and build professional relationships. Working with my Host has helped me become more autonomous, improve my communication and expand my network in the football industry. The experience is also helping me structure my own activity in France and identify potential opportunities across the French, Dutch and West African markets. I hope to maintain the relationship with my Host and explore future collaborations after the exchange.
EYE gave me the opportunity to turn knowledge into real experience. Working alongside an experienced entrepreneur helped me improve my scouting skills, understand the business side of football and gain the confidence to develop my own venture.