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

Former defender Santiago Zurbriggen is going through a stage of professional transformation. After hanging up his boots, he returned to Club Atlético Unión to take on a strategic role. In an in-depth conversation with Maxi Bravo for “Estadio 9”, the now executive analyzed his arrival at the Technical Secretariat, the strategy behind the latest transfer window, and the comprehensive project aimed at strengthening the “tatengue” identity.

A Return Driven by Sentiment

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

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

The Structure of the Technical Secretariat

Far from being a solo job, Zurbriggen emphasized that his management is supported by a solid team. “I have very capable people by my side, people who have been at the club for years and know Unión well,” he highlighted. The work team divides specific tasks: Renzo Marzocchi handles daily management, Augusto Ciutto is in charge of scouting from Buenos Aires, and Yamil Nasser manages video analysis.

This structure not only focuses on signings, but also on streamlining logistics and meeting the needs of all categories, from 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 was going to be much slower than usual, largely due to economic reasons.” With that in mind, the club prioritized maintaining the current structure and adding key pieces (Mansilla, Menossi, and Cuello).

Regarding the failed signing of Mauricio Martínez, Zurbriggen was blunt in explaining that the club’s desire clashed with budget realities: “We made our desire for him to join us clear, but financial demands arose that we couldn’t meet.” Faced with Rosario Central’s demands, the Secretariat decided to act quickly and choose the alternative of Lucas to avoid delays.

Youth Players and Departures on the Agenda

One of the pillars of the project is safeguarding the “Unión DNA.” The executive valued the prominence of homegrown players and the contribution of Nicolás Vazzoler to the coaching staff, facilitating the transition between the Reserve and First Team.

Regarding departures, Zurbriggen provided updates on key names:

A Vision for Growth

On his relationship with the club’s leadership and Luis Spahn, he noted that dialogue is constant due to his current responsibilities: “Today the relationship is much more fluid because we are in a position to make decisions.”

Finally, he left a reassuring message for club members, emphasizing the invisible effort that sustains the institution. “Behind every result there are many people who work every day to help the club grow,” he concluded, reaffirming his commitment to order and the strengthening of Unión’s sporting project.

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