Federico Balzaretti, known for his time as both player and manager, is set to return to AS Roma as the club’s new Loan Manager starting January 2025. This significant appointment is part of the wider restructuring plan spearheaded by the Friedkin family, aiming to fortify the club's scouting capabilities and management structure.
Balzaretti, who played for AS Roma from 2012 to 2015, brings both historical significance and experience to this new role. During his tenure, he made 44 appearances and scored one memorable goal against Lazio, which fans fondly recall as he celebrated with tears of joy under the Curva Sud. His heartfelt connection to the club makes his return all the more special.
The decision to bring back Balzaretti was made by sporting director Florent Ghisolfi, who sought to expand the scouting department as part of the club's project to improve its organizational framework. Ghisolfi's choice was also influenced by AS Roma’s head coach, Claudio Ranieri, who holds Balzaretti in high regard. Their collaborative relationship traces back to Ranieri's past management roles, including discussions about player evaluations and reports on teams like Nantes.
"So che sei esperto del campionato francese mi puoi dire qualcosa sul Nantes?" ("I know you're experienced with the French league, can you tell me something about Nantes?"), noted Balzaretti, as recounted by Gazzetta dello Sport. The rapport built over time indicates the trust and respect Ranieri has for Balzaretti’s insights. This influence is pivotal as Ranieri continues to shape his team's future with strategic player acquisitions and proper scouting.
Returning to AS Roma is not merely about nostalgia for Balzaretti; it is about leveraging his expertise from previous leadership positions. He previously worked as the Loan Manager from 2015 to 2019, where he showcased his capability to manage youth players and monitor their development across various loan spells. This experience will be instrumental as he re-assumes his duties, ensuring AS Roma's talents gain the exposure and training they need at other clubs.
Ghisolfi's decision to reinstate Balzaretti aligns with the overarching ambition to reshape and strengthen the club's approach to player management, as echoed by many analysts. "Il rientro di Balzaretti è un pezzo di una strategia precisa: migliorare l’organigramma" ("Balzaretti's return is part of a precise strategy: to improve the organizational structure"), reported Corriere dello Sport, reflecting the club’s commitment to tapping expertise and enhancing operational functions.
After leaving his role as technical director at Udinese last June, Balzaretti's latest experiences as sporting director at Vicenza also add value to his capabilities. Under his leadership, Vicenza lifted the Serie C Coppa Italia, though it was also underscored by the challenge of relegation from Serie B. Nonetheless, these experiences have shaped him as a resourceful individual equipped to identify and nurture player talent.
His scouting responsibilities will not only focus on players who are currently on loan but also involve evaluating potential recruits globally. Balzaretti is expected to dedicate special attention to young athletes flourishing within lower tiers and those fresh from successful stints outside Italy. Highlighting names like Tammy Abraham and Marash Kumbulla among others who are currently working through their loan spells showcases Balzaretti's willingness to monitor and analyze performances continuously.
Balzaretti’s deep-rooted connections within the footballing world—gained from his career as both player and manager, as well as his previous stints with clubs—will be invaluable to AS Roma. The Friedkin family values this blend of professionalism and humility, traits reflective of Balzaretti’s approach, which prioritizes diligent work over seeking headlines.
Currently residing with his family in Rome, the former player’s enthusiastic return to Trigoria aims to meld personal passion with professional aspiration. His past experiences, paired with substantial knowledge of the club’s culture, are expected to facilitate his transition back to the organization seamlessly. Notably, Balzaretti's profession as an opinion writer contributes to his analytical perspectives on the game, aligning with the thoughtful cultivation of player talent within the club.
To conclude, Balzaretti's reintegration as Loan Manager heralds both continuity and change. With his commitment to scouting and managing loan players, he is positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping AS Roma's future success. Balzaretti’s presence signifies not just the return of familiar faces, but the strategic evolution of AS Roma under the Friedkin's management as they seek to reconcile their ambitions with operational excellence.
