Swansea City has confirmed the appointment of Richard Montague as the club’s new Director of Football.
Montague, who previously held the position of Executive Director at Notts County, will officially begin his role with the Swans on Tuesday, February 18th. His arrival is seen as a key move to strengthen the club’s football operations and recruitment strategy.
In his new position, Montague will be responsible for overseeing player recruitment, managerial decisions, academy operations, and the club’s overall footballing structure. Swansea believes his vast experience and data-driven approach will be invaluable in shaping the future of the team.
A Background in Data-Driven Football Analysis
Montague started his football career in 2011 with Football Radar, an analytical company where he eventually became Head of Football Analysis. In that role, he led a team of 100 specialists, focusing on using match and player data to predict game outcomes and enhance decision-making processes. His work in football analytics is part of a growing trend where technology and AI tools are being integrated into various aspects of the sport, from tactical planning to content creation.
His success in football analytics led to a move to Notts County in 2019, where he was tasked with leading the club’s football operations. Despite working within financial constraints, Montague played a pivotal role in scouting, recruitment, sports science, and performance analysis, helping Notts County become one of the most exciting and high-scoring teams in the lower leagues.
A Key Figure in Notts County’s Promotion
Montague’s influence was particularly evident as Notts County secured a return to the EFL in 2023, with the club finishing the season with an extraordinary 117 goals under the management of current Swansea head coach Luke Williams.
During his tenure, Notts County developed a reputation for possession-based attacking football, producing players who either contributed significantly to the squad or were sold for substantial transfer fees.
Under his guidance, the club consistently outperformed expectations, maintaining a strong league position while operating within a limited budget. His ability to identify talent and build competitive squads played a crucial role in Notts County’s success.
Swansea’s Vision for the Future
By appointing Montague, Swansea City aims to refine its recruitment strategy and tactical approach. The club is keen to implement a structured and data-driven model, similar to what Montague developed at Notts County.
His experience in building effective scouting networks, player development pathways, and performance analysis frameworks aligns with Swansea’s long-term ambitions. The club hopes that Montague’s analytical expertise and hands-on football knowledge will provide a foundation for sustainable success.
Writer’s View
Richard Montague’s appointment could prove to be a significant step forward for Swansea City. His track record of maximising resources, implementing data-driven recruitment strategies, and developing attacking footballing teams makes him a standout candidate for the role.
With Swansea looking to build a more structured and efficient football operation, Montague’s expertise in player identification, tactical planning, and long-term squad development could help the club progress both on and off the pitch.
