Tottenham announced their new leadership structure earlier this week with Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange both working as co-sporting directors, and there’s now been clarity as to specifically how they will operate together at N17.
Spurs announce Fabio Paratici return with Johan Lange promoted
Many speculated that Paratici’s return could spell the end for Lange’s involvement in Spurs’ recruitment strategy, but as confirmed by the club, he’ll be working side by side with the popular Italian.
Paratici, who worked as a consultant for months before coming back full-time — advising Lange, CEO Vinai Venkatesham, Thomas Frank and ex-chair Daniel Levy — officially returns to North London over two years after he was forced to resign due to his worldwide ban.
The 53-year-old played a significant role in the signings of key Tottenham stars, including Cristian Romero, Dejan Kulusevski, Pedro Porro, Rodrigo Bentancur, Djed Spence, Destiny Udogie and Pape Sarr, with his comeback seen as a major boost for the Lilywhites.
1. Cristian Romero
£42.5m
2. Dejan Kulusevski
£25.5m
3. Rodrigo Bentancur
£21.5m
4. Pedro Porro
£40m
5. Djed Spence
£20m
He was a key ally of Levy, and the latter’s exit after 25 years last month threatened to derail a move for Paratici (talkSPORT).
However, Venkatesham, regardless of Levy’s departure, ultimately decided that Paratici should be involved in an official capacity, and it’s hard to argue given the transfer chief’s track record, extensive contact list and reputation as a fierce negotiator.
Paratici and Lange's very different Tottenham director roles explained
While Paratici and Lange are ‘co-sporting directors’ by title, the duo will actually have very different tasks, as explained by Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.
It is believed that Paratici will be the ‘dealmaker’, overseeing the task of getting star players through the door, while Lange’s responsibilities are geared more towards scouting and talent-spotting.
Paratici’s reputation as a transfer expert precedes him.
Having honed his skills at Juventus and Tottenham before, he is known for his shrewd negotiation tactics, ability to close high-profile moves and strategic approach to the market. Paratici excels at identifying the right moment to strike whilst leveraging relationships with clubs and agents to secure key signings.
By contrast, Lange brings a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of player development.
His background as a technical director at FC Copenhagen and sporting director at Aston Villa highlights his experience in scouting and building a sustainable recruitment strategy.
Lange’s focus on the long-term pipeline of talent, youth integration and data-driven scouting will back up Paratici’s deal-closing prowess, with the duo set to complement eachother nicely and divide key responsibilities.
It is a fantastic move by Spurs, and if their dynamic proves successful, other Premier League sides may even take inspiration.
