Runjaic feels at home in Friuli: Udine’s third‑year vision

On a bright afternoon in Udine, the scent of fresh espresso mingles with the buzz of supporters gathering in Parco Moretti as Kosta Runjaic prepares for his third season at the helm of the Zebrette. The German coach, now in his third year, says he feels truly at home in Friuli, a sentiment echoed by the chanting crowd.

Parco Moretti chants for Europe

Fans dressed in white fill the park, their voices rising toward the sky of Udine as they shout, “Kosta portaci in Europa (UE).” The chant captures both the yearning for continental competition and the deep connection between the city and its club. Their enthusiasm turns the park into a festive arena, underscoring the community’s hopes.

Runjaic’s realistic blueprint

Runjaic stresses that while supporters need dreams, an over‑ambitious coach risks his job. He describes himself as a man with his feet firmly on the ground, insisting the team must first match last season’s level before looking ahead. He also notes the recent loss of key players Atta and Kristensen, reminding fans of the challenges ahead.

This season marks Runjaic’s third consecutive campaign with Udinese, a feat not achieved since the era of Francesco Guidolin. The club arrived with 50 points last season, a tally it had not reached for a long time, and Runjaic’s appointment was intended to bring fresh technical ideas from outside Italy.

Squad outlook and season start

Runjaic highlights the importance of perseverance for Zaniolo, praising his brilliant moments while urging improvement in handling difficult situations. He lauds Davis for scoring ten Serie A goals last season and stresses the need for injury‑free continuity, outlining a personalized training programme.

He also speaks highly of Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s versatility at 26, predicting that his best has yet to be seen, and points to Matteo Palma, the 2008‑born Italian‑German defender, as a future prospect now that Kristensen has departed. Solet’s defensive determination and Simone Pafundi’s need for regular playing time are also discussed, with the latter likely to seek minutes elsewhere for development.

The new campaign opens against Como, a side known for short passing in midfield. Runjaic looks forward to finding the right balance, while acknowledging that Inter may be the favourite in the league, though he remains curious about a possible resurgence from Juventus and Milan.

Beyond football, Runjaic enjoys the local lifestyle, often stopping for a cappuccino at a Tuscan café. He admits he is slowly learning Italian, noting the difference between ordering a coffee and delivering a full‑length conference in the language, and hopes for patience as he improves.