Performance implications of interfirm knowledge resource mobility: evidence from professional soccer player transfers

The inter-firm mobility of knowledge resources results in formation of interorganizational network. Prior studies indicate the importance of such relations on firm performance. However, the significance of the network partner due to knowledge resource dependence is yet to be studied. In this study, we implement resource dependence theory and network concepts to examine the effect of partner on focal firm performance in the context of knowledge resource mobility. We would test our hypotheses using data from professional soccer player transfers involving European Big Five soccer leagues. We predict that the prior performance of the partner and relative autonomy of focal firm will have positive impact on focal firm performance. We also propose an adverse effect of network status difference in the performance of focal firms.