FC Lugano, under billionaire owner Joe Mansueto, leads the Super League while preparing for a new stadium. Coach Mattia Croci-Torti, a former player with significant achievements, has transformed the team since 2021. He values family and personal growth while embracing a unique coaching style. Croci-Torti emphasizes teamwork in a changing football culture influenced by individualism and business dynamics, maintaining optimism for the future of the sport amidst evolving challenges.
FC Lugano: An Overview of the Club’s Journey
FC Lugano currently holds the top position in the Super League, with billionaire Joe Mansueto as the club owner. Thanks to his financial backing, a modern stadium is underway, yet the fans of Lugano are still experiencing life in the aging Cornaredo Stadium. In this unassuming venue, the club’s 42-year-old coach, Mattia Croci-Torti, has set up his modest office, adorned with a cherished photo of his three daughters.
From Player to Coach: The Rise of Mattia Croci-Torti
Born in nearby Mendrisiotto, Croci-Torti began his football journey as a right-back, competing in around 200 Challenge League matches, primarily for Chiasso and Lugano. He transitioned to coaching as an assistant before seizing the opportunity to lead FC Lugano. His accomplishments are noteworthy: a cup victory in 2022, appearances in two additional cup finals, and impressive Super League finishes of 4th, 3rd, and 2nd, along with extensive runs in European competitions.
Reflecting on the club’s transformation since Mansueto’s takeover in August 2021, Croci-Torti recalls his initial reaction to the billionaire’s interest in FC Lugano. Like many, he turned to Google to learn about Mansueto’s substantial wealth and questioned the billionaire’s intentions for the club.
After stepping in as interim coach, Croci-Torti was informed that the new management, led by Georg Heitz, was on the lookout for a permanent coach. Excited yet aware of his temporary role, he led the team to a draw against Basel and a cup victory against Xamax, solidifying his position.
Now the longest-serving coach in the Super League, Croci-Torti never anticipated achieving so much in just over three years. Recently, he extended his contract until 2028 amidst rumors linking him to other clubs, including Italian teams.
While he acknowledges the occasional inquiries from abroad, Croci-Torti expresses his commitment to Lugano, where he feels a strong sense of trust and belonging. With the team currently leading the league and preparing to move into a brand-new stadium in July 2026, he is excited about the future.
As a devoted father of three daughters aged five, seven, and twelve, Croci-Torti cherishes the time spent with them. He prides himself on being a present father, granting his daughters the freedom to explore while emphasizing the importance of education and respect for others. Balancing life as the only man in a household filled with girls has its challenges, particularly as they enter their teenage years.
When asked to describe himself, Croci-Torti uses three adjectives: spontaneous, hungry, and emotional. He recalls the early days of his coaching career, when his signature cap raised eyebrows among critics. However, he has embraced his unique style and focuses on personal growth, learning to be more patient and analytical during matches.
Drawing from his past experience selling parquet flooring, he likens coaching to sales, emphasizing the importance of effectively communicating his ideas and principles to the players. Croci-Torti’s coaching philosophy carries an Italian influence, particularly regarding defensive play, while promoting creativity and adaptability during offensive phases.
Despite a preference for a 4-3 victory over a narrow 1-0 win, Croci-Torti admires modern football coaches like Roberto De Zerbi and Fabian Hürzeler, who emphasize ball possession and dynamic play. His journey from coaching amateur clubs to leading FC Lugano speaks to his dedication to the sport.
Reflecting on the changes in football culture, Croci-Torti notes the rise of agents and the shift in player mentality. He believes it is crucial for coaches to foster a strong team spirit amidst a more individualistic approach prevalent among today’s players. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about the potential for camaraderie within the sport.
As football evolves into a business, exemplified by the connection with Chicago Fire, Croci-Torti acknowledges the changing landscape while holding onto the essence of teamwork that originally drew him to the game.