Fabio Paratici has opened up on what his interactions with Tottenham fans made him feel over the last two years, and the role those played in his decision to return to the club.
Two and a half years after being forced to resign from his role as managing director of Tottenham, Paratici is now officially back as Spurs sporting director.
The Italian will be sharing the responsibility with Johan Lange, who has been promoted from his previous role as technical director.
Reflecting on his return, Paratici has said that he loves Tottenham, and he has now expanded on why his affection for the club has grown over the last two years.
Fabio Paratici reveals Tottenham fans showered him with love
The 53-year-old has been going through a tough time over the past two years, owing to his alleged involvement in the Juventus capital gains scandal.
He has been working as a consultant for Spurs during his time out of the game, and he admitted that during that time, he had some touching interactions with the Tottenham faithful.
When asked how it feels to be back at Tottenham, Paratici told the club’s official channel: “It’s a great feeling. First of all, I would like to be thankful to the Lewis family, to Vinai, to Johan, and all of the employees who supported me during this period and made me feel a part of this family, even though I was not full-time at this club.
“I also want to thank the fans. They made me feel really important to them. They supported me everywhere when I met them. They showed me their love, and it means a lot to me. For this reason, this club is really special to me. And then coming back to this role and working together with Johan as a sporting director is a great feeling for me.”
Paratici admits he met Spurs fans all across the world
The Italian is very much a globe-trotter, having developed a wide network during his two decades of experience in the game.
He revealed that wherever he went, he came across Tottenham Hotspur fans, who were thankful for the contributions he had made to the club.
When asked if he ran into Spurs supporters often, Paratici responded: “Yes, of course, because Spurs fans are everywhere. Sometimes you can meet them in Rome, Milan or New York.
“They showed me really the love that they have, and not just in the stadium, but everywhere I meet them, they came to me saying thanks and supporting me. It means a lot to me. Joining the club again and working closely with Johan and Vinai will be great. It is a great feeling.”