Franco Baldini

Franco Baldini was born on October 3, 1960, in Reggello, Italy. He began his football career as a midfielder, playing for various Italian clubs including Sangiovannese (1979-1980), Varese (1980-1981), Bologna (1981-1982), Bari (1982-1984), Pescara (1984-1985), Campobasso (1985-1987), Foggia (1987-1988), Casertana (1988-1989), and Colligiana (1991-1992). In 1981, he was called up to the Italian U-21 national team, though he did not make a competitive appearance.

Baldini transitioned into a managerial and directorial career, starting as Director of Football at Roma in 1999, a position he held until March 2005. He then joined Fabio Capello at Real Madrid as a Director in 2006. When Capello became the England manager in December 2007, Baldini was appointed as his assistant manager, focusing on scouting and managing supporting staff. He played a role in England’s successful UEFA Euro 2012 qualification campaign before returning to Roma as Director in October 2011, working on a club restructuring project alongside new owner Thomas R. DiBenedetto.

In June 2013, Baldini was appointed Technical Director at Tottenham Hotspur. In this role, he oversaw significant player transfers, including the departure of Gareth Bale for a world record fee and the acquisition of several new players such as Paulinho, Nacer Chadli, Christian Eriksen, and Erik Lamela. He remained in this position until September 2015, leaving by mutual consent. His career reflects a progression from a professional player to key football administrative roles at high-profile clubs and national teams.