Shablii, founder of the renowned ProStar Football Agency, shared insights into his agency’s mission. Based in London and originating in Ukraine, ProStar is dedicated to nurturing and representing top football talents across Europe.
Since its establishment, ProStar has quickly risen among the leading football agencies globally, praised for identifying, developing, and promoting young players in elite leagues such as the English Premier League and Italian Serie A.
Shablii’s vision has cultivated a trusted network within the football industry, significantly elevating the profile of Ukrainian footballers internationally.
ProStar currently represents notable talents, including Vitalii Mykolenko (Everton), Yehor Yarmolyuk (Brentford), and emerging star Georgiy Sudakov of Shakhtar Donetsk, who is drawing significant attention from top clubs in the Premier League and Serie A. ProStar agency also represents Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk, but due to the sensitivity of his current situation, the agency can’t provide any comments. These players alone are valued collectively at over 100 million euros.
Vadim defied the odds with his sheer determination and persistence to build an agency that competes with giants and is poised to amplify their achievements and activities in the upcoming transfer window.
The agency's effectiveness was highlighted when it ranked fifth worldwide for concluding the most football deals between July and September 2024, only surpassed by global giants Wasserman, CAA Stellar, CAA Base, and Unique Sports Group, while outpacing other prominent agencies like SEG.
Shablii also shared insights into his own journey from player to agent, the strategic management of high-profile clients, the winter transfer window and ProStar's expanding influence in major football markets.
Flashscore: Vadim, thank you for taking the time to be interviewed by Flashscore. It’s a great honour. Please tell us more about yourself - your background and how you decided to enter the football business world.
Shablii: "Thank you as well for your interest in my activities and the work of the ProStar Football Agency in general. Football has been part of my life since I was young. I was a footballer, and at an early age of about 21 years old, I realised that I did not have the qualities that are inherent in top-level players, and I didn’t want to settle for being average.
"Nevertheless, I was not going to leave football completely, either. I've always set ambitious goals for myself and tried to approach their implementation extremely seriously. And then I caught myself thinking that throughout my playing career, I always tried to help my football friends, and recommended them to different teams where I had acquaintances. That’s why I decided to improve the format of simply friendly help and reach a professional agent level. Although the competition in this area of the football market was already intense."
ProStar represents several top Ukrainian players in the Premier League. How would you describe ProStar’s mission in promoting Ukrainian talent?
"For us, as a football agency, the player must get the best possible chance for his development, regardless of nationality. When we talk specifically about Ukrainian football talents, our mission is to ensure they become as highly valued in the European football market as players from top leagues. I'm delighted that this attitude has started to shift recently, and we can already see that more and more players with Ukrainian passports are playing for top clubs.
"Among our clients, there are many young football talents who, I am sure, are waiting for their chance to prove themselves and attract the attention of scouts from Europe. For example, as you probably know, our footballer - goalkeeper Vladyslav Krapyvtsov - joined the first team of Spanish Girona this winter. This transfer took place thanks to his talent and hard work.
"Another example is Artem Smolyakov, a player of the Ukrainian U21 team and one of the most promising young defenders (left-back) in Ukraine, who in February moved from the UPL team FC Polissya to one of the best teams in the MLS - Los Angeles FC.
"For us, this is a moment of pride for both the players and the agency, as we continually expand our reach and increase our cooperation with clubs around the world. (Editor’s note, more information about the winter transfer window is below)."
One of the top players you represent is Vitalii Mykolenko, who is enjoying a successful period under David Moyes as Everton's new manager. What advice do you give Mykolenko regarding his career choices and potential future transfers? Do you think it's time for him to take another step forward in his career?
"He has already played more than 100 matches in the Premier League, and across all competitions for Everton, he's surpassed 114 appearances (at the time of this interview). Vitalіi is progressing season after season and proving that he is a major player for Everton.
"I can say that he is already an established, well-rounded player, with his own character and approach to the game, having impressive experience playing against strong opponents. I think he has a great chance to continue his career in a top club in the future."
Under the wing
Yehor Yarmoliuk is also under your wing, one of Brentford's young talents. What sets him apart as a prospect in English football, and how has he adapted to the demands of the Premier League and life in England?
"Yehor is a unique footballer, and I am glad that he is our client. By the way, we recently extended our cooperation and signed a new contract with him. It is important to us that young and promising footballers at the stage of building their careers choose ProStar from a variety of other agencies. On our side, we always strive to ensure that each football player is in the club and on the terms that suit him.
"Yehor's path began at SC Dnipro-1, where at the age of only 14, he was already training with the first team, and at 18, he moved to the Premier League. Brentford's style suits Yehor perfectly; he is resilient, technically gifted, and excels in pressing opponents, leaving all his energy on the pitch. He has certainly strengthened Brentford and can continue developing there.
"The club's management, head coach, and all the staff have supported and helped Yehor from day one. He is important to them as a project, and they are committed to doing everything so that he grows, develops all his professional qualities in this club, and becomes an indispensable player in the starting XI."
Another future superstar is in the making. Giorgi Sudakov is highly sought after, with several Premier League clubs, including Manchester City, reportedly keen on signing him - as confirmed by Shakhtar’s general director, Sergiy Palkin (speaking to GOAL). Can you please tell us more about it?
"First of all, I'd like to say that all of our players are stars. Some have already established themselves and play at the highest European level, while others are on their way to doing so.
"Giorgi is very interested in trying his hand at one of the leading European clubs. We are all open to offers, and when the right moment comes, I am sure that Giorgi will become part of a great club. Both Premier League clubs and Serie A clubs have long been interested in him."
Are there any specific Premier League teams that stand out as particularly suitable for his abilities and career aspirations? For example, could Pep Guardiola or Mikel Arteta be the ideal mentors for him?
"For Sudakov, as with any player, it is important to feel support and trust from the coach; of course, such famous managers could become the right mentors for him. I am certain many football players dream of spending at least part of their careers under their management. They are unique. It is impossible not to admire the commitment with which they live every game of their team."
Last summer, Napoli and Juventus showed interest. In the current market, do you expect any renewed attempts from Serie A teams, or has the focus shifted entirely to the Premier League?
"Giorgi would be happy to try himself in Serie A. We have received official offers from teams from this league (Serie A), but to successfully facilitate the transfer, all parties involved must be satisfied with the terms and give their approval."
Moving abroad
How does Sudakov view his potential move to England now? Has his mindset or preferred destination changed following the winter transfer window? And if he joins the Premier League, do you expect him to make an immediate impact, or would he need time to adjust?
"Currently, the transfer window for clubs that were interested in his transfer, and these are teams from the top five leagues, is closed. At the same time, Giorgi remains under contract with Shakhtar, and, of course, he is focused on being as useful as possible to his current club. He is a hard-working and intelligent footballer, so there is no doubt that we will soon see him wearing the colours of one of the best teams in Europe.
"As for the second part of your question, it is important to note that adaptation is an absolutely normal process for a football player when he transfers not just to another club but also to another championship. Everything in your life changes. And, of course, some time is needed for synergy with the new team and the requirements of the new coach to occur.
"Naturally, much depends on the climate within the team and the support that the head coach provides to the newcomer. Some players adapt very quickly, while others need more time. It is all very individual. However, we, as agents, are always ready to support and help a football player settle into a new place so that all his thoughts are only about football and his new team."
Winter transfer window
ProStar has completed several exciting winter signings, further strengthening its commitment to promoting Ukrainian talent across top leagues. Key deals include transfers to Girona FC, Trabzonspor, Los Angeles FC, FC Eyupspor, and Empoli FC, marking significant progress for the agency’s expanding roster.
VLADYSLAV KRAPYVTSOV (Free agent → Girona FC, contract until summer 2029):
Vadim, your agency finalised several transfers during the winter window. What key factors led to Krapyvtsov’s decision to sign with Girona, and how do you see his playing style complementing the club’s system in LaLiga?
"We all wanted Vladyslav to continue his career in one of Europe's major championships. Since deciding on this, we've worked hard to ensure that he develops and reveals his potential in a team that will need him.
"He had a long trial with Premier League giants Chelsea and Arsenal, and both clubs wanted to sign him. Unfortunately, regulatory restrictions blocked this move. We believe that Girona is the right place for Vladyslav to advance in his career.
"Now, at 19 years old, he is Girona’s second-choice goalkeeper, and the club is interested in Vladyslav's development. Michel (Girona’s manager, editor’s note) has stated that Krapyvtsov is crucial for the club’s future. Therefore, we look forward to his debut in the first team.
"Vladyslav has all the necessary qualities that allow him to improve and play at a high level. He has excellent physical attributes for a goalkeeper, with well-developed reactions and footwork—all essential qualities for top-level goalkeepers."
OLEKSANDR ZUBKOV (Shakhtar) & DANYLO SIKAN (Shakhtar) – Both signed for Trabzonspor:
Let’s move to other transfers. Trabzonspor has secured two Ukrainian talents from Shakhtar with long-term deals (4.5 years for Zubkov and until June 2029 for Sikan). What does this double signing indicate about Trabzonspor’s scouting and long-term vision regarding Ukrainian talent?
"The length of Zubkov and Sikan's contracts suggests that Trabzonspor is betting on the gradual development of these players and plans to integrate them into the squad for a long period. The club is investing in the future and clearly sees potential in Ukrainian footballers. This move will positively impact the players’ performances for the Ukrainian national team as well.
"The Turkish Super Lig is an intense and competitive championship. It is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate and enhance their football qualities, which will be beneficial during international matches. Overall, their progress at Trabzonspor may attract interest from even larger European clubs in the future."
In your view, what specific strengths do these players bring to the Turkish Super Lig, and how will their extended contracts facilitate their integration into Trabzonspor’s playing style?
"This is more a question for the head coach of Trabzonspor, how and in what format he sees their integration into the team. I can say that Danylo Sikan is a strong striker with a great instinct for goal-scoring opportunities.
"Oleksandr Zubkov is a versatile attacking midfielder who can effectively play both on the flank and through the center. He thinks creatively, possesses excellent field vision, and knows how to deliver effective passes on time. Both players have all the necessary qualities to successfully consolidate their place in the starting XI of Trabzonspor."
VIKTOR KOVALENKO (Free agent → Empoli FC – return to a former club):
Viktor Kovalenko’s return to Empoli marks a homecoming of sorts. What do you think motivated this decision, and how might his previous experience with the club shape his future contributions?
"Empoli is a club where Kovalenko has already played and felt comfortable. Knowing the team and the style of play will significantly simplify his adaptation and speed up the process of integration into the team. Viktor is highly motivated and ready to return to big football."
ARTEM SMOLYAKOV (FC Polissya Zhytomyr → Los Angeles FC, long-term contract of 4+1 years):
Artem Smolyakov’s move to Los Angeles FC is somewhat unconventional, as young talents typically head to European leagues first. How do you envision his transition to MLS, and what role do you expect him to assume as he adapts to a new footballing culture? Do you expect the US market to be more involved for young European players?
"We're used to seeing MLS as a league where experienced players typically move later in their careers. However, MLS is becoming an increasingly popular league for both players and fans, at least due to the attraction of famous European players.
"I am sure that LAFC, one of the best clubs in MLS, will allow Artem to gain experience and reveal his potential at the international level. MLS is intense with its unusual schedule that requires adaptation, but I am sure that Artem, with his attitude and approach to football, will be able to integrate into the team quickly and show all his best qualities.
"I would also like to focus on the deal itself. Timely and profitable acquisition of players, and then timely and even more profitable transfer to other leading championships, represent the future of football. Therefore, I am grateful to the President of FC Polissya, Gennadiy Butkevych, who gave his approval for this transfer.
"We, as a football agency, always support the strategy of clubs that believe in young players, allow them to prove themselves, and are ready, on favorable terms for all, to let them go for further career growth."
Vadim on other talented Ukrainian players
Aside from Giorgi Sudakov, ProStar represents several other top talents in Ukraine’s Premier League. Who do you see as the next big names to watch out for? Could it be talents like Artem Bondarenko and Volodymyr Brazhko or any other names? What makes them stand out?
"Artem Bondarenko and Voldymyr Brazhko are players who have the potential for significant growth and development. They attract attention from teams in various European leagues, as does Vladyslav Vanat, for example.
"This is a young generation of talented footballers who demonstrate good technique and tactical thinking, have good physical characteristics, and all the necessary qualities required to succeed at the highest levels."
Volodymyr Brazhko was recently linked to clubs like Betis, Girona, and Feyenoord. What factors would influence Dynamo Kyiv’s decision to release him, and which league do you think best suits his style?
"Brazhko is a versatile player who can adapt to different playing styles, so he has proven himself in many championships. However, he is not just an important player for Dynamo; he’s also a graduate of their academy, and now he is needed by the team, which has an ambition of becoming the champion of the Ukrainian Premier League this season.
"That’s why the contract between the player and Dynamo was extended until 2029. At the same time, I am sure that the interest from Europe's football giants in Volodymyr will remain strong during the upcoming summer transfer window."
Dynamo Kyiv famously produced Andriy Shevchenko, one of the world’s best strikers. Do you believe 22-year-old Vladyslav Vanat from Dynamo Kyiv has the potential to replicate Shevchenko’s success? His stats are impressive - 14 goals and 7 assists in the 2023/24 season. What qualities put him on a path towards potentially reaching Shevchenko’s level?
Shablii: "Yes, you’re absolutely right. Vladyslav Vanat was the top scorer in last season’s UPL, and now he is also leading the scoring charts again, having scored 12 goals in 19 matches (at the time of the interview).
"I would not compare him with Andriy Shevchenko, a world-class player, because each player is unique and talented in his way, especially since football has changed a lot in recent years and has become more dynamic and technical.
"Sometimes, it is a battle of tactics, and sometimes a battle of endurance and speed of decision-making. In any case, I believe that Vladyslav demonstrates stable and high-quality performances.
"He has good tactical thinking and understanding of the game, and this helps him score many goals in the Championship. High efficiency at a young age is a good sign. If he maintains his current rate of progression, he has every chance of becoming a strong and outstanding striker."
With rumours of interest from Serie A clubs like Inter Milan and Lazio, do you see Vladyslav Vanat potentially following in Shevchenko’s footsteps by moving to Italy, or do you think his style is more suited to the pace and physicality of the Premier League?
"Adaptability is quite an important skill in football now, so I believe the younger the player, the easier it is for him to integrate and adjust to the style of play needed by the team. Vanat can successfully play both in Serie A and in the Premier League.
"His transfer to one or another league will depend on which club offers him the best conditions for development and the best opportunity to realize his potential. Also, the conditions of the potential club must satisfy the transfer requirements of his current team, Dynamo Kyiv."
About ProStar’s vision and future
How does ProStar maintain close relationships with Premier League clubs, and how important is this for future transfers?
Shablii: "Our footballers already play for top Premier League clubs, and we must continue and expand this cooperation. I’d also like to note that our players often participate in trials with Premier League clubs; this tendency is also very pleasing.
"The Premier League is a serious championship - it’s a global showcase that consistently attracts attention from clubs and scouts everywhere. It’s an honour for us to cooperate with such teams."
What are your expectations for ProStar in the coming years in terms of talent representation and market expansion? Shakhtar Donetsk earned a reputation for bringing Brazilian talents to Ukraine’s Premier League, which had a big impact on the league’s quality and international visibility. Do you have any plans to expand ProStar’s reach to Brazil, considering its wealth of talent, and do you intend to bring more young Brazilian players to Ukraine or other European leagues?
"The transfer policy and the development vector of the club in this area differ from how it is organized in a football agency. Shakhtar has had a very successful experience of working with Brazilian footballers. This market is incredibly rich in talented young players, but it has changed now, as has the cost of players in this market. This is a separate ecosystem.
"Many talented players from across South America try to move to the Brazilian Serie A so that they are noticed by scouts from the top championships. We have agents who specialize in the Brazilian football market, so we are working to improve our activities in this region. Our agents working in Brazil speak Portuguese; they are close to and understand the culture of players from these countries. It is important not only to negotiate well but also to understand the mentality of the players, their needs, and their values.
"In general, all football agencies work differently; some focus more on individual markets, taking leading positions in them, while others, on the contrary, want to have their own representative offices in many countries without having a large number of players in each of them.
"Our ProStar team is interested in increasing the company’s visibility and importance at the European level, demonstrating our competence and reliability, and building trust with clubs and players in new football markets."