A DJ’s Transformation into Football Agent
Francesco Facchinetti is no stranger to the spotlight. Once known as ‘DJ Francesco,’ a prominent Italian showman and DJ, he comes from a family deeply entrenched in the entertainment industry. His father, ‘Roby’ Facchinetti, is a celebrated singer and a founding member of the popular Italian group ‘Pooh.’ However, in recent years, Facchinetti has made a significant shift in his career, transitioning from the fast-paced world of nightlife and music to the high-stakes realm of football agency. Now, he is an essential figure at Epic Sport, a firm that represents some of the most promising football talents in Italy and beyond.
The Philosophy of ‘Less is More’
Facchinetti’s approach to his new role is refreshingly modern and collaborative. In an interview with Gazzetta, he explained the evolution of the football agency business. "In the past, each agency had a hundred players and three agents," he said. "Today, the focus is on building a team around the players. Our advantage at Epic is that we structured ourselves this way from the very beginning. Our philosophy is ‘less is more’." This philosophy is not just a business strategy but a genuine belief in the importance of personalized care and support. Facchinetti sees himself as more than just an agent; he is a support system for the players. "I go to the club and say: ‘The player needs these things, but don’t worry, I’ll take care of providing these services,’" he continued. "Since we work with fewer players, I can invest in each individual by surrounding them with a dedicated team to help them grow, such as a nutritionist or a personal fitness coach."
Emotional and Professional Milestones
One of Facchinetti’s most emotionally significant achievements in his new career is the transfer of Cesare Casadei, a young Italian talent, from Chelsea to Torino. Casadei, a product of the Inter academy, has recently scored his first Serie A goal with Torino in a 2-0 win over Monza, and there is speculation about his potential inclusion in the Italy national team for upcoming Nations League games against Germany. Facchinetti handled this negotiation alongside Matteo Mayer, and it was a deeply personal and rewarding experience for him. "From a personal perspective, the most meaningful deal was Casadei’s transfer to Torino, as I am his agent," Facchinetti said. "I handled the negotiation together with Matteo Mayer, and it really engaged me emotionally."
The Complexity of High-Profile Transfers
While the transfer of Casadei to Torino was emotionally resonant, Facchinetti’s most high-profile deal to date was brokering Conor Gallagher’s move from Chelsea to Atletico Madrid last summer. This transfer was a testament to his growing expertise and influence in the football agent world. "The biggest deal, however, was brokering Gallagher’s move to Atlético Madrid, it made me truly understand the complexity of this job," Facchinetti reflected. The intricate negotiations, strategic planning, and diplomatic interactions required to facilitate such a significant move highlighted the multifaceted nature of his work. It is a far cry from his days as a DJ, where the focus was on creating an atmosphere and entertaining a crowd.
Adapting to a New Professional Standard
The transition from DJ to football agent has not been without its challenges. Perhaps the most striking anecdote is the time Facchinetti showed up to a meeting with a Premier League president wearing a blue tracksuit. The president’s immediate response was a harsh but practical lesson in professional attire. "Dressed like that, you’re not talking to me. Go get a suit and then come back," he was told. This incident marked a turning point for Facchinetti, who had to adapt quickly to the more formal and professional standards of the football world. "This job forced me to start using the phone again," he added. "For ten years, I had stopped answering calls and only used voice messages. I also had to change my style. I used to wear tracksuits all the time."
Building a Future in Football
Despite the initial hurdles, Facchinetti has embraced his new role with enthusiasm and dedication. His unique background in the entertainment industry has given him a different perspective on talent management and public relations, skills that are invaluable in the football agency business. By focusing on fewer players and providing comprehensive support, he aims to help each athlete reach their full potential. The success of players like Cesare Casadei and Conor Gallagher is a testament to his approach. As he continues to navigate the complexities of the football world, Facchinetti remains committed to his philosophy of ‘less is more,’ ensuring that each player receives the personalized attention and resources they need to succeed both on and off the pitch.
