Southampton have appointed Ivan Juric as their new manager on an 18-month deal. The 49-year-old Croat, renowned for his disciplined and defensively solid teams, replaces Russell Martin, who was relieved of his duties following the Saints’ humiliating 5-0 defeat at the hands of Tottenham.
Juric, who most recently managed Roma, albeit briefly, is undaunted by the enormity of the task ahead. “I’m very pleased. I think it’s a really big challenge, but I’m very optimistic because I saw a team that can do better,” he said, exuding confidence.
His primary objective is to forge an immediate connection with the fans, who have grown increasingly disillusioned with the team’s dismal performances. “I want an aggressive team, and I think that the fans of Southampton will like that,” Juric asserted.
Juric’s managerial career, which spans nearly a decade, is marked by his ability to instill discipline and solidity in his teams. His tenure at Torino, where he oversaw three mid-table finishes in Serie A, is a testament to his capabilities. Prior to joining Roma, Juric managed Mantova, Crotone, Genoa, and Hellas Verona, cultivating a reputation as a taskmaster who demands the highest standards from his players.
The Saints, languishing at the foot of the Premier League table, nine points adrift of safety, desperately need a catalyst for change. Juric’s appointment is seen as a pragmatic move, with the club seeking a manager who can bring stability and discipline to a squad that has been hemorrhaging goals.
Juric is unlikely to take charge of the Saints match at Fulham, meaning his first outing in the Saints dugout will be at home to West Ham on 26 December. As he prepares to embark on this new challenge, Juric will be acutely aware of the enormity of the task ahead.
