Football Season Guide

Last season Udinese experienced various set backs from season-ending injuries to Covid outbreaks and more. This no doubt hindered them and despite having top 10 potential, they ended up with a 15th place finish. After some hesitation, the management eventually decided to continue with coach Gotti. After all he led them to safety in the last two campaigns. It is however unclear if they truly believe in him, or were presented with a lack of alternatives. The summer transfer campaign started with the departure that all Udinese supporters dreaded, but which was bound to happen sooner or later: their leader De Paul, who often helped them win games single-handedly, left for Atletico Madrid. Goalkeeper Musso, another important player, unexpectedly left for Atalanta. Bonifazi returned to his parent club Spal, deemed too expensive to keep. This was despite Udinese having a pre-emption on his ownership and him turning in a great season at centre-back. Udinese have not reinvested in their team to any significant degree. Silvestri arrived from Hellas Verona and he should represent a valid replacement for Musso in goal. 18-year-old left-back Udogie also arrived from Hellas and he immediately displayed the right personality and skills to make the starting XI if needed. The talented Samardzic has been brought in: the 19-year-old attacking midfielder could become De Paul's replacement in the future, but he does not look ready just yet. With the season about to start, once again Udinese have not addressed their long-standing problem: the lack of a prolific striker. Moreover, they are still looking for a quality centre-back and a leader for the midfield.