Frederic Massara is set to become the new head of the sporting area at Juventus, according to reports detailing the organizational restructuring led by newly appointed CEO and General Manager Giovanni Carnevali. This transition marks the official end of the French management era at the Continassa headquarters, with the departure of technical director Francois Modesto.
How is the Juventus front office changing under Giovanni Carnevali?
Twenty-five days after taking the helm, CEO Giovanni Carnevali is actively reshaping the club’s sporting hierarchy. While Massara takes the lead in the sporting area, the club has confirmed the retention of Marco Ottolini as Sporting Director. Giorgio Chiellini will continue in his role as Director of Football Strategy, maintaining his focus on institutional relations with bodies such as the Lega, FIGC, UEFA, and the EFC.
Who is Frederic Massara?
Massara, 57, brings extensive Serie A experience to the Juventus technical department. His professional relationship with Carnevali dates back to the early 1990s, when they worked together at Pavia—Massara as a young footballer and Carnevali as the general manager. The two also shared time with Massimiliano Allegri before both players were transferred to Pescara in 1991.
A protégé of Walter Sabatini, Massara began his executive career in 2008. His track record includes identifying high-profile talents like Javier Pastore and Josip Ilicic at Palermo, and later securing players such as Erik Lamela, Marquinhos, Mehdi Benatia, Kevin Strootman, and Radja Nainggolan for Roma. During his tenure at AC Milan, he partnered with Paolo Maldini to help secure the 2021-22 Serie A title, with his scouting successes including Rafael Leão, Ismaël Bennacer, and Mike Maignan.
Why does this appointment matter for Juventus?
The move represents a strategic pivot for the club. Juventus had previously considered Massara for a leadership role on two occasions: once in 2023, when he was reportedly supported by Massimiliano Allegri, and again last summer, when he was evaluated by Damien Comolli. By securing him now, the club is reuniting him with his hometown and a familiar network of Italian football professionals, including Luciano Spalletti, with whom he worked during his time in Rome.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is leaving the Juventus management team? Technical director Francois Modesto is departing, signaling the end of the club’s recent French-led management period.
- What is Giorgio Chiellini’s current role? Chiellini remains the Director of Football Strategy, focusing on external relations with football institutions.
- Is Frederic Massara’s appointment official? While widely reported as the new head of the sporting area, the club is expected to issue a formal announcement in the near future.
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