Paolo Zanetti has been appointed Udinese’s new head coach, the Friuli-based club announced. The 44-year-old will replace Kosta Runjaic, who was dismissed after Udinese’s 5-2 home defeat to Roma.
Zanetti arrives with Udinese second from bottom in Serie A and struggling for form, having collected just one point from their last eight matches. His contract runs until June 2027, with the immediate task of improving the team’s position and moving them away from danger.
The appointment marks Zanetti’s return to coaching after his spell at Verona ended with his dismissal in February 2026. He has 136 Serie A matches as a coach, recording 27 wins, 35 draws and 74 defeats.
His most notable achievement came with Venezia, whom he guided to promotion to Italy’s top flight in the 2020-21 season, ending the club’s 19-year absence from Serie A. He remained in charge for the following campaign before being dismissed in April 2022.
Zanetti subsequently coached Empoli, leading the club to safety in the 2022-23 season with 43 points, before leaving the role the following campaign. He then joined Verona in summer 2024 and secured Serie A survival in his first season, which ended with 37 points.
His first match in charge of Udinese will take place on Friday, November 6, at 20:45, away to Venezia, his former club.
Sources: ANSA Sport.