Southampton: Ivan Juric confirmed as new manager
Southampton has appointed Ivan Juric as its new manager on an 18-month contract.
The Croatian replaces Russell Martin, who is fired by saints Last week, they suffered a 0-5 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur.
Juric, 49, was most recently Roma coach but Fired in November After just 12 games in charge.
“I’m happy. I think it’s a very big challenge, but I’m very optimistic because I see a team that can do better,” Juric said.
“It’s important to connect with the fans immediately. I want an aggressive team and I think Southampton fans will like that.”
The Southampton job marks Juric’s first managerial role outside Italy and his contract is said to include a summer break clause.
Juric began his coaching career at Mantua in 2014 and has since coached Crotone, Genoa and Hellas Verona.
Before joining Roma, he helped Torino finish midtable three times in Serie A, earning a reputation as the manager of a defensively solid side.
Club sources say Juric is one of two options to replace Ralph Hasenhuttl when Nathan Jones is appointed in November 2022.
The club are said to want a manager who can bring some stability and discipline to the squad following the humiliating defeat at Tottenham.
Juric is unlikely to take charge of Sunday’s game against Fulham, meaning his first game in the Saints dugout will be at home to West Ham United on December 26.
Southampton are bottom of the Premier League table, nine points from safety, with just one win so far this season.
