Journalist confirms key Spurs figure to leave after January window

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Fabio Paratici set for Fiorentina return after January duty at Tottenham

Fabio Paratici’s second spell at Tottenham Hotspur is set to conclude almost as swiftly as it resumed. As reported by The Athletic, the club’s co-sporting director will complete a move to Fiorentina at the start of February, once the January transfer window closes for English clubs at 7pm GMT on Monday February 2.

The timing matters. Paratici is expected to remain fully active at Spurs throughout the winter window, helping to steer recruitment before returning to Italy to lead Fiorentina’s football operations. The arrangement speaks to professionalism on both sides, but it also underscores how transitional this period remains in North London.

Italian pull and unfinished business

The Athletic revealed on December 21 that Fiorentina had approached Paratici about a surprise return to Serie A, little more than two months after he was reappointed by Spurs. Personal reasons are believed to have played a significant role in the decision, a reminder that football executives, like players, are often guided by family considerations as much as career ambition.

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Paratici officially resumed work in October following the conclusion of a 30 month ban from football activity, operating alongside Johan Lange as co-sporting director. He had previously served as Tottenham’s managing director of football from June 2021, appointed by then executive chairman Daniel Levy.

January work continues at Spurs

Despite the impending departure, Paratici has been involved in what is expected to be Tottenham’s first incoming of the winter window, the signing of Brazilian left back Souza from Santos. Spurs have agreed a fee with the Brazilian club for the teenager, an early indication that January business will continue regardless of boardroom movement.

This continuity is important. Spurs have endured a year of significant change, and the club have been keen to avoid disruption during a window that could define the direction of the season.

Complex legacy and Italian future

Paratici’s career has been marked by both success and controversy. He was one of 11 former Juventus executives banned from Italian football after being accused of financial malpractice, a suspension later extended worldwide by FIFA in March 2023. The case related to the inflation of transfer fees for accounting purposes during his time in Turin.

He resigned from his role at Spurs in April 2023 after his appeal against the worldwide ban was rejected, although the sanction was partially reduced, allowing him to work in football in a limited capacity. During that period, he continued to advise Tottenham on transfers on a consultancy basis.

Fiorentina, currently 18th in Serie A with just two wins from 20 league games, are yet to replace former sporting director Daniele Prade, who left by mutual agreement in November. Paratici’s appointment would represent a statement of intent from a club in need of direction.

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Paratici’s impending exit feels symbolic of a club still searching for stability above the pitch. Fans appreciate the work he has done in helping modernise recruitment structures, particularly during his first spell, but there is also fatigue with constant change at executive level.

Supporters will hope that his continued involvement through January ensures momentum is not lost. The Souza deal suggests planning has not stalled, yet fans remain wary. Too often, Tottenham’s windows have been shaped by shifting priorities rather than a clear, unified vision.

There is also an acceptance that Paratici’s heart has always been tied to Italy. If personal reasons are driving this move, many fans will wish him well. The greater concern is what comes next. Spurs supporters want clarity, accountability and a settled hierarchy that can support the head coach properly. This departure should be the final piece of upheaval, not another chapter in an ongoing cycle.

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