Santiago Zurbriggen returns home: "Coming back was all about Unión" | OneFootball

Former defender Santiago Zurbriggen is going through a phase of professional transformation. After hanging up his boots, he returned to Club Atlético Unión to take on a strategic role. In a deep conversation with Maxi Bravo for «Estadio 9», the now executive analyzed his arrival at the Technical Secretariat, the engineering of the latest transfer market, and the comprehensive project aimed at enhancing the «tatengue» identity.

A Return Driven by Sentiment

For Zurbriggen, Unión's offer was the only reason capable of hastening the end of his football career. Although he planned to play abroad a bit longer, the club's call was decisive. “I think it's a decision solely because it's Unión,” he confessed, revealing that after talking with the president, the conviction was immediate: “I didn't hesitate for a second and was already looking for the return ticket.”

Despite having prior theoretical preparation, the executive acknowledged that the day-to-day demands constant learning, moving from books to resolving immediate unforeseen issues.

The Structure of the Technical Secretariat

Far from being an individual task, Zurbriggen emphasized that his management relies on a solid team. “I have very capable people by my side, people who have been at the club for years and know Unión,” he highlighted. The team divides specific tasks: Renzo Marzocchi in daily management, Augusto Ciutto in scouting from Buenos Aires, and Yamil Nasser in video analysis.

This structure focuses not only on signings but also on streamlining logistics and needs across all categories, from the youth teams to the professional squad.

Market Analysis: Austerity and Precision

The recent transfer period was marked by financial caution. According to the sporting director, “everyone agreed that this market would be much slower than usual, largely due to economic reasons.” Under that premise, the club prioritized maintaining the current structure and adding specific pieces (Mansilla, Menossi, and Cuello).

Regarding the failed arrival of Mauricio Martínez, Zurbriggen was blunt in explaining that the club's willingness clashed with budgetary reality: “We expressed our desire for him to be with us, but economic demands arose that we couldn't meet.” Faced with Rosario Central's demands, the Secretariat decided to act quickly and opt for Lucas as an alternative to avoid delays.

Youth and Departures on the Agenda

One of the project's pillars is safeguarding the «Unión DNA». The executive valued the prominence of the youth academy players and the contribution of Nicolás Vazzoler to the technical staff, facilitating the transition between Reserve and First Team.

Regarding departures, Zurbriggen updated the situation of key names:

A Vision for Growth

Regarding his relationship with the management and Luis Spahn, he noted that the dialogue is constant due to current responsibilities: “Today the relationship is much more fluid because we are in a decision-making position.”

Finally, he left a message of reassurance for the members, emphasizing the invisible effort that supports the institution. “Behind every result, there are many people working every day for the club to grow,” he concluded, reaffirming his commitment to the order and strengthening of Unión's sports project.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.