Fabio Paratici has defended his decision to leave Tottenham Hotspur for Fiorentina, rejecting suggestions the move was reckless and insisting it was instead a calculated and courageous choice, while also taking time to thank Spurs for their support.
The Italian sporting director’s second spell in north London lasted just over three months, bringing an abrupt end to his return after serving a FIFA-imposed ban that had curtailed his initial tenure in April 2023.
Paratici defends Fiorentina move amid relegation battle
Paratici returned to Tottenham in October following the completion of his suspension, but by late December reports in Italy had begun to link him with a move back to Serie A. Tottenham confirmed last month that the 53-year-old would leave to join Fiorentina after the winter window, with Italian media suggesting he had already begun work behind the scenes.
Despite Fiorentina currently sitting 18th in the table, one point from safety, Paratici dismissed the idea that leaving a more stable Tottenham side was a rash decision.
“It might have seemed reckless, but it was actually just courageous. A reckless person doesn’t know what they’re doing; a courageous person evaluates and weighs things,” — Fabio Paratici
He revealed that his decision was made well before the official announcement, following a direct approach from Fiorentina.
“I chose and decided to come to Fiorentina on December 15th or 16th. Ferrari came to London to meet me, and there I decided to come,” — Fabio Paratici
Why Fiorentina appealed despite league position
Paratici explained that Fiorentina’s broader structure, rather than their league standing, was the decisive factor in his choice.
He pointed to the club’s ownership, infrastructure and global profile as reasons he felt the move was the right one, adding that returning to Italy at this stage of his career made sense.
“I thought Fiorentina has a great and very serious owner, world-class infrastructure and a city that is a super international brand. I decided it was the right time to return to Italy,”
‘Huge challenge’ accepted with belief
While acknowledging Fiorentina’s current struggles, Paratici insisted the club’s situation demands realism and focus rather than short-term fixes.
He made clear that survival is the immediate priority and that progress will require sustained effort over the remainder of the season.
“It’s a huge challenge, but I’m facing it with enthusiasm and a lot of belief. Florence and Fiorentina deserve a higher level than the current one.”
Paratici thanks Tottenham after brief return
Paratici also took the opportunity to express gratitude to Tottenham for backing him during difficult periods, describing his time in England as a valuable chapter of his career.
“I also thank Tottenham Hotspur for giving me this opportunity to enjoy five wonderful years in the Premier League, waiting for me during difficult times,” — Fabio Paratici
Key Insights
- Paratici rejected claims his Fiorentina move was reckless
- Decision was made in mid-December after talks in London
- Fiorentina’s structure and ownership convinced him
- Survival is the immediate priority for the club
- Paratici thanked Tottenham for their support
What’s Next
Paratici will now focus on helping Fiorentina avoid relegation over the final months of the season, with longer-term planning expected to follow only if safety is secured. Tottenham, meanwhile, continue under Thomas Frank, having reached the Champions League last 16 and sitting 14th in the Premier League.
Was Paratici right to prioritise belief and structure over short-term league position, or did Tottenham represent the safer option?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *