Udinese seek a response against Milan after Runjaic’s blunt Lecce verdict

Udinese need a response at home to AC Milan after Kosta Runjaic called their defeat to Lecce the worst performance of his time in Udine. The coach accepted responsibility and said his team lost the physical battles, lacked intensity and failed to find ways to threaten in attack.

The result leaves Udinese 15th with four points from six matches: one win, one draw and four defeats. Milan visit on Sunday, 25 October, with kickoff at 20:45 CET. Runjaic’s side now have a clear test: show a sharper performance in front of their own fans.

“We lost all the duels and second balls,” Runjaic said after the Lecce match, according to Udinese’s official website. “It is unacceptable to perform like this.” He said Lecce had put his team under pressure and gained energy from its goal. Udinese knew Lecce posed a threat from set pieces, he added, but he rejected bad luck as an explanation for the performance.

Runjaic also took responsibility rather than singling out individuals. He said David Alaba was substituted after feeling discomfort, with the change made as a precaution. Alaba had been used centrally, a role Runjaic said suited his ability to read the game and play forward.

Jakub Piotrowski, back after five weeks out, was equally direct about Udinese’s display. He said the team “created nothing” and Lecce had dominated. Having played after only one week of training, the midfielder called for the squad to stay together and make changes collectively. He also said he wanted to help the team after his time on the sidelines.

That makes the Milan fixture more than a chance to move on from one poor afternoon. Udinese need to turn Runjaic’s criticism into greater intensity and a more effective attack, with the coach publicly taking responsibility for the response. Milan’s visit is their next opportunity to do it.