Discover the Brazilian mind behind the phenomenon Haaland, the star who shone against Brazil in the 2026 World Cup and revolutionized the soccer market!
The elimination of the Brazilian national team in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup by Norway, with two goals from the unstoppable Erling Haaland, certainly still resonates in fans’ memories. However, behind the brilliance of the Manchester City striker, there is a Brazilian mind orchestrating every step of his meteoric rise: São Paulo-born lawyer Rafaela Pimenta.
At 53 years old, Rafaela Pimenta is not just an agent; she is the strategic force that has transformed a young talent into one of the biggest stars in world soccer, standing out in a predominantly male universe with her competence and business acumen.
A Journey of Passion and Persistence
Rafaela Pimenta‘s journey in soccer began in the late 1990s, focusing on the legal aspects of international negotiations. This experience was crucial for her to become a fundamental partner of Mino Raiola, one of the most influential and feared agents in the sport, years later, actively participating in high-impact transfers on the European scene.
Raiola’s Legacy and Haaland’s Management
Following Mino Raiola‘s passing in 2022, Rafaela Pimenta took the reins of the agency, inheriting and expanding a roster of high-profile clients. Under her leadership, Haaland‘s career has reached new heights, including the strategic move from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester City, recognized as the Best Transfer of 2022 at the Globe Soccer Awards, and a recent contract renewal until 2034.
Global Influence and Strategic Vision
Now based in Monaco, Rafaela Pimenta leads the agency Tatica, specializing in elite athlete management. Her work goes far beyond negotiating fees and transfers, encompassing image rights, sponsorships, commercial strategies, and meticulous career planning that ensures the future of her clients.
Recognition of her influence transcends borders. In 2026, the Brazilian was included in Forbes‘ prestigious “50 Over 50 Global” list, solidifying her position among the most impactful personalities in global business and culture. In addition to Haaland, Rafaela manages the careers of other important names such as Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, and the Mexican prospect Gilberto Mora.
The Heart’s Dilemma in the 2026 World Cup
The match between Brazil and Norway in the last World Cup brought mixed emotions for Rafaela Pimenta. A declared fan of the Brazilian national team, she is also the agent of the team’s main nemesis. A social media post of a divided jersey in the colors of both countries perfectly symbolized this personal dilemma.
The professional relationship and trust with Haaland began when the player was still a teenager, growing alongside his talent and rise. The 2026 World Cup only sealed the striker’s prominence, as he not only reached the knockout stage as one of the top scorers but also led the painful Brazilian elimination, leaving his mark on the tournament’s history.
Rafaela Pimenta‘s story is a testament to the passion and expertise that drive modern soccer. Her ability to shape careers and influence the market demonstrates that, with “Grit, Love, and Passion” (Raça, Amor e Paixão), Brazilian talent makes its presence felt in the most diverse corners of global sports. Her impact is an invitation to reflect on the future of sports management and the growing role of women in leadership positions, challenging paradigms and building new legacies, like the discussions about SAFs (Sports Limited Companies) and women’s soccer that she frequently addresses.
