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Atalanta has announced John Murtough as their new Director of Global Development. The Serie A team is looking to grow internationally, and Murtough, with over a decade of experience at Manchester United, is set to help. He held senior positions at the English club.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Murtough’s role at Atalanta is new, and he will work closely with Sporting Director Tony D’Amico and the club owners, the Percassi and Pagliuca families. This marks his first role in Italian football. He previously worked in England at Manchester United, Everton, Fulham, Coventry City, and with the Premier League’s Elite Performance division. Atalanta’s leadership has said his experience is a key part of their plans to improve the club internationally and welcomed him as an important part of their sports department.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Murtough’s arrival comes at a time when Atalanta is doing very well. The team, based in Bergamo, is third in Serie A and are current Europa League champions after a fantastic 2023-24 season. Under long-term manager Gian Piero Gasperini, they are known for attacking football and producing talented young players over the past few seasons. By hiring someone with such extensive experience, Atalanta are showing they want to build a stronger international brand and remain one of Europe’s top teams from the ground up by promoting academy graduates and young talents. Murtough was crucial in the transfer of Rasmus Højlund from Atalanta to Manchester United. His recruitment connections could benefit the Italian club as they search for global talent and business opportunities.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR ATALANTA AND MURTOUGH?
As Atalanta gear up for an important match against AC Milan in Serie A, they are focused on securing a spot in next season’s Champions League. Atalanta are third, closely competing with Juventus and trailing Napoli and Inter, who are second and first respectively. Murtough’s next steps involve reviewing Atalanta’s international partnerships, academy, and business operations, trying to build a worldwide brand instead of a domestic title contender. Both fans and football experts will be keen to see how quickly the former Manchester United executive can make an impact as Atalanta seeks more success.
