Udinese’s Runjaic: “Sanchez against Inter? He could even start”

Udinese coach Kosta Runjaic addressed the media during the club’s Christmas toast, discussing his team’s journey so far and focusing on tomorrow night’s Coppa Italia round of 16 match against Inter. The manager indicated that he doesn’t intend to make too many changes to the lineup, but hinted at a possible surprise in the starting eleven.

Reflecting on the team’s progress, Runjaic stated, “Difficult and winding roads often lead us to important results, the best is yet to come. We started in June, we began well but we know that Serie A presents many obstacles and challenges. I’m convinced that this journey will bring us important results, it’s a challenge for all of us. I’m very happy to be here today, I wish everyone a holiday period filled with peace and serenity.”

Regarding the upcoming match against Inter, Runjaic acknowledged some challenges: “Tomorrow we’ll be in difficulty especially in midfield, as Zarraga, Payero, and Lovric will be missing. It’s a challenge, but I’ll field the best possible team. There will be some rotations, we have several choices, but it’s not certain that there will be changes in all departments. There’s still time to decide, but tomorrow we won’t radically overturn the formation, that’s not the approach we want to work with. However, it will be an opportunity to get a better look at players we’ve seen less of so far. The defense will be a back three.”

When asked about Alexis Sanchez, who celebrates his birthday tomorrow, Runjaic left the door open for a surprise: “On paper, he could even start, but I still have to decide.”