Juventus has officially announced Damien Comolli as their new General Manager. Let`s delve into his impressive career and key achievements.
Early Career and Premier League Experience
Comolli`s journey began in AS Monaco`s youth academy, later transitioning to coaching their U16 team. He holds a law degree and coaching qualifications. His connection with Arsene Wenger led him to Arsenal in 1996, where he spent seven years as a European scout. During his tenure, Arsenal clinched three Premier League titles, including the legendary undefeated season of 2003-04.
Comolli`s talent-spotting abilities brought players like Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Eboue, and Gael Clichy to Arsenal. His influence extended to Tottenham, where he facilitated the transfer of future Ballon d`Or winner Luka Modric in 2008. Other notable signings under his watch included Dimitar Berbatov and David Bentley.
At Liverpool, Comolli orchestrated the high-profile transfers of Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll in January 2011.
European Football Ventures
Comolli`s career also includes a stint as sporting director at Saint-Etienne, though this period was marked by some financial challenges due to unsuccessful signings. After a brief engagement with Galatasaray, he took a hiatus from football before joining Toulouse as director of football and later as President.
Under Comolli`s leadership, Toulouse achieved promotion to Ligue 1 and won the Coupe de France in 2023, securing a spot in the Europa League. His appointment at Toulouse was reportedly recommended by Billy Beane, the renowned statistician behind the Moneyball concept.
Despite earlier rumors linking him to AC Milan, the 55-year-old Comolli has now resigned from Toulouse to take up his new role as General Manager at Juventus, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.