Official: Udinese sack Runjaic with Zanetti lined up
UDINE, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 07: Kosta Runjaic, Udinese manager, looks on during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SS Lazio at Stadio Friuli on September 07, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Udinese have officially sacked Kosta Runjaic, with Paolo Zanetti set to take over as head coach.
According to Calciomercato.com, the club announced the decision on Monday after days of reflection, and only Zanetti’s signature is needed to complete his appointment.
Runjaic paid the price for a dreadful run. Udinese have gone eight matches without a win, and their only league victory came against Monza on 29 August. Saturday’s 5-2 home defeat to Roma was the final straw. It left the Bianconeri on five points from 10 games, just above the relegation zone on goal difference.
The club released the following statement:
“Udinese Calcio has announced that Kosta Runjaic has been relieved of his duties as first team head coach.
“The club and the coach part ways, having worked together for over two years and achieved important objectives.
“Udinese Calcio would like to give its sincere thanks to Kosta and his staff members, Przemyslaw Małecki and Alexander Trukan, and wishes them the very best in their future professional endeavours.”
Zanetti set for Udinese job
Zanetti has been out of work since Verona sacked him in February. According to Sky Sport Italia, Udinese have set strict terms for the new coach: a contract only until June, and a limit of two members of his own staff.
His first game is likely to be a crucial relegation clash away to bottom side Venezia on Friday.
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