Fabio Paratici played a key role in shaping Tottenham’s squad, but with AC Milan now circling, should Spurs consider bringing him back?
Gone are the days when football managers had full control over player recruitment. The modern game has evolved, and with it, the role of the sporting director has become pivotal.
These figures are now at the heart of squad-building decisions, their names often surfacing when a club’s recruitment strategy is spot on.
Think Manchester City’s Txiki Begiristain and Liverpool’s Michael Edwards—key architects of their respective club’s transformations.
For Tottenham, one name stands out: Fabio Paratici. The Italian was instrumental in bringing several of Spurs’ key players to the club, shaping the squad with his extensive network and recruitment nous.
Fabio Paratici’s exit and Tottenham’s new direction
However, Paratici stepped down from his role at Spurs in April 2023 following his conviction for financial malpractice in Italy. His departure left a significant void, one that the club has since filled.
Johan Lange has taken up the mantle, leading Tottenham’s recruitment drive with a focus on young talents.
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Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall, Mathys Tel, and Antonin Kinsky have all arrived under Lange’s watch, reflecting a shift in strategy towards securing high-potential prospects.
Despite resigning, Paratici has maintained ties with Tottenham. But that connection could soon be severed, with AC Milan reportedly keen on securing the ex-Tottenham director’s services.
Spurs fans remain divided. Some Tottenham fans would welcome their former sporting director back, recognising his influence in previous transfer windows.
Others are indifferent, more concerned with the direction of the club rather than the individual in charge of recruitment.
Is Paratici the right fit for Spurs going forward?
The role of a sporting director is not just about signing players—it is about relationships, negotiations, and selling the club’s project.
Paratici’s extensive contacts, particularly in Italy, gave Spurs a pipeline into Serie A talent. Many of those signings remain key figures for the club, an edge he holds over Lange.
Recruitment is also about persuasion. A director must convince players of the club’s vision, ensuring top targets buy into the project.
Under Lange, Tottenham secured Mathys Tel, but only after Ange Postecoglou personally intervened to seal the deal. Small details, but they can be decisive.
Ultimately, a sporting director’s success hinges on the backing of the board. Without it, even the best in the business will struggle. Spurs now face a decision. Paratici has credit in the bank.
The question is, do they cash in on it? On the balance of things, I do think they should. After all, if Tottenham still consult Paratici even with Lange in the role, it’s not a great look.
The club has to get their preferred main man and plan the rebuild of the squad with him at the helm.