Udinese’s head coach Kosta Runjaic addressed the media ahead of the team’s important Serie A match against Roma, scheduled to take place at the Bluenergy Stadium. Following a disappointing performance against Como, where Runjaic described the match as possibly “the worst of the year,” he expressed his expectations for a strong reaction from his players.
Reflecting on the loss to Como, Runjaic stated, “I think that a team of our level can sometimes lose an away game, but we must ask ourselves how we arrive at that defeat. We are disappointed with how that loss came about; it was perhaps our worst game alongside the away match in Rome. The result against Como was heavy, but we must digest this defeat and focus on tomorrow’s game. It is important to have a reaction after such a great disappointment.”
As for Roma’s recent changes, Runjaic acknowledged their evolving tactics since their last encounter. “We started the season well and lost that match; they have changed a lot since then. The players from Roma played well against us, but we also delivered a disappointing performance, conceding simple goals. When facing a team like Roma, you cannot make certain mistakes. They have players like Dybala, Pellegrini, and Dovbyk who can be very dangerous.”
Discussing potential changes to his lineup after the recent defeat, Runjaic mentioned that he was still considering his options. “I don’t like to talk much about the lineup before the game; I can say I have not made all my decisions yet. We will need to replace Solet, and it’s no secret that Kamara did not play well against Como, so he will not start tomorrow. However, he has performed well in the past and has shown he can contribute.”
When asked about Alexis Sanchez’s adaptation to the team, Runjaic explained, “Alexis is a player who doesn’t need much teaching; it will take him some time to adapt to our needs. His injury lasted a while, and he needs time to return to form. He is intelligent and can read situations better than many others. We have played without him for a long time and developed certain mechanisms.”
Runjaic also touched upon the team’s overall approach as they navigate Serie A. “We have many aspects to improve on; our goal as a team is to create our style of play and apply it in every match. If we look at the data from last year, we have improved significantly in possession of the ball.”
As for injuries within the squad, he provided updates: “Ehizibue will need more time to recover. Davis is training individually and could join the team next week, along with Zarraga. Giannetti still needs time but is on the right path.”
Finally, Runjaic expressed optimism about young talents like Damian Pizarro and their development within Udinese’s system. “We continuously discuss our young players, even those who don’t play much. Pizarro is currently with the national team; this is an opportunity for him. He is improving physically and in his approach.”
