Runjaic at risk as Udinese line up Zanetti as replacement

Runjaic at risk as Udinese line up Zanetti as replacement Udinese are expected to decide Kosta Runjaic’s future this afternoon, with former Verona coach Paolo Zanetti emerging as the favourite to replace him. According to Calciomercato.com , citing Sky Sport Italia, the German’s position has become close to untenable after Saturday’s 5-2 home defeat to Roma . Gian Piero Gasperini’s side were 4-0 up within 37 minutes at the Bluenergy Stadium. The result left Udinese on five points after 10 games, with seven defeats in their last eight league matches. Wednesday’s 0-0 draw at Parma had ended a run of six straight defeats, but it only bought Runjaic a few more days. VERONA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Paolo Zanetti Head Coach of Hellas Verona gestures during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images) Zanetti favourite for Udinese job if Runjaic is sacked Zanetti has been out of work since Verona sacked him in February. He is ready to return to management and has told Udinese he is open to taking the job. Roberto D’Aversa was another early candidate, but his chances are said to have faded. Udinese have set strict conditions for any new coach. He would get a contract only until June and could bring just two members of his own staff. Zanetti is said to be the frontrunner, but a surprise candidate can’t be ruled out. Whoever is in charge will face a crucial relegation clash at Venezia, who are bottom of Serie A, on Friday.