Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic expressed optimism when speaking with the media ahead of his team’s crucial match against Juventus, despite the recent setback against Venezia.
Reflecting on the short turnaround between matches, Runjaic said, “We’ve analyzed some solutions, showing players what we did well and what we didn’t. We trained with less intensity as we play again tomorrow. It will be a difficult game against a high-quality team, but we’ve already shown against Inter and Milan that we can compete. Now we need points against them.”
When asked about Juventus’ potential lineup changes, Runjaic emphasized focusing on his own team: “I think Juventus has more than ten valuable players in their squad, which is an advantage for the coach. I’m very happy to be able to play against them, but in my opinion, it’s important that we focus on ourselves and what kind of game we want to play. I’m optimistic and I must say that it’s possible to do well even against a team like Juventus to get points.”
Addressing the loss to Venezia, Runjaic took responsibility while highlighting the lessons learned: “It’s a game that hurt us but it’s also a good reminder that the match ends when the referee blows the whistle. We played well in the first half but in the second we slowed our rhythm, lacking concentration on some details. I take responsibility, but now we must show with Juventus that we can improve.”
Regarding team selection, Runjaic confirmed, “Tourè won’t be available against Juventus, and Kabasele and Giannetti will play. We’ll need to position them well to ensure a good defensive performance, covering spaces well.”
On the team’s mentality, Runjaic stated, “I hope they take to the field with the right motivation and attitude. We know what opponent we’re facing, with great individuals, and we can’t afford to give up but rather we’ll have to work all together. I won’t give you a prediction on the result, but we’ll put great passion on the field to challenge Juventus. If we succeed, I’m convinced we’ll give Juventus difficulties.”
Runjaic also provided updates on player availability, noting that Kristensen will rejoin the squad next week, Ekkelenkamp has recovered, and most players will be available after the international break. He confirmed that Davis will start and that Thauvin is fully ready, though still improving after his recent return to the group.
