Why Juventus are betting big on Modesto | OneFootball

François Modesto’s arrival at Juventus as technical director has sparked considerable discussion, with some supporters questioning the club’s recent tilt toward French footballing influences. Sporting director Malu Mpasinkatu, speaking to Radio Bianconera and cited by Bianconera News, weighed in on the appointment, emphasizing Modesto's experience, adaptability, and on-the-ground approach.

Mpasinkatu highlighted Modesto’s extensive familiarity with Italian football, having served as a player at Cagliari and then as an executive at Monza. “I know him well and he knows Italy well, after spending many years first at Cagliari as a player and then at Monza in management,” Mpasinkatu noted, describing Modesto’s journey through diverse footballing cultures.

He pointed to Modesto’s foundational work with Olympiakos, explaining that even though Modesto left for Monza before the Greek club claimed the Conference League title at Fiorentina’s expense, “that Olympiakos side was a direct result of his contributions.” Mpasinkatu further credited Modesto with his role at Nottingham Forest, where the club finally achieved promotion back to the Premier League after more than two decades away, suggesting a pattern of steady and effective influence.

Addressing criticisms about the so-called ‘Frenchification’ of Juventus under new sporting director Comolli, Mpasinkatu offered a pragmatic view. “It seems natural that Comolli would want to bring in someone he trusts and knows well,” he said, arguing there is little reason for concern. He insisted that Modesto’s expertise runs far deeper than French football: “He is a technical director who understands not only the French league but also the international market and, importantly, Italian football.”

Mpasinkatu described Modesto as “a talent spotter and an executive who is deeply involved with the day-to-day running of the squad.” He underlined Modesto’s reputation for developing close working relationships with coaches and spending time on the training pitch—a trait that, for Juventus, could prove crucial. “He is the perfect bridge between the squad and the sporting director, and I am convinced he will do an excellent job,” Mpasinkatu concluded.

The expectation around Modesto’s appointment is that he will bring the same hands-on approach and market knowledge that defined his stints at Olympiakos and Nottingham Forest. As Juventus looks to rebuild and modernize amid significant change behind the scenes, Modesto’s blend of familiarity with Serie A and international scouting acumen could offer precisely the connection between technical staff and executives that the club seeks.

(Source: Bianconera News)