Comolli ‘privileged’ to be appointed General Manager of Juventus

Comolli has been a pioneer of the Sporting Director role in England, inspiring and mentoring a number of British incumbents, such as Stuart Webber, who went on to take the role at Huddersfield Town and Norwich City. 

Webber, who worked under Comolli at Liverpool, told TGG: “Originally I had wanted to be a Manager, but working at Liverpool with Damien I realised in quick time, ‘That’s the job I want.’ 

“Being able to have that longer-term vision and implement it – I got that from Damien. The interest in data – he was talking about that to me 15 years ago.”

At Juventus, Comolli will be responsible for the men’s football department, as well as marketing and commercial. Club legend Giorgio Chiellini will report to him as Director of Football Strategy.

Chief Executive Maurizio Scanavino said: “We are delighted to welcome Damien and extend our best wishes for his journey with us. His expertise and professionalism will play a crucial role in Juventus’ path to continued strength and growth.”

Comolli added: “I am thrilled and privileged to join a club distinguished by its history, identity and ambitious vision. From the very first day, I will dedicate my experience to Juventus with the ultimate goal of achieving victory — just as Juventus is meant to, and as our fans rightfully expect.”

A few days earlier, he had announced his resignation from Toulouse, saying: “This is undoubtedly the most complicated decision I have had to make on a professional level in my entire career, which I have been thinking about for several months now.

“Because the emotional bonds created with the club, the staff, the players, the coaches and the city of Toulouse are incredibly strong.

“We spent five extraordinary years filled with emotions that seemed more like dreams than reality when I think back to the situation in June 2020. I would like to thank everyone who helped us on this trip: the people of Toulouse for their warmth and welcome, the club’s management, staff, coaches, supervisors, and of course, the players.

“With a special mention to our incredible supporters who transformed the Stadium into one of the most beautiful atmospheres in France. And the VIOLA community as a whole.”

Speaking on the TGG Podcast in June 2022, Comolli had outlined how he oversaw the transformation of Toulouse. When he arrived at the club, they were in the doldrums in Ligue 2, before he led them back to the top flight and to victory in the French Cup in 2023.