Runjaic confession: ‘Milan better in all aspects’ to Udinese | OneFootball

Udinese coach Kosta Runjaic insists his change of tactics was ‘a good idea’ this evening, but admits Milan ‘were better in all aspects’ of the 3-0 defeat.

It was a heavy loss at the Bluenergy Stadium, especially considering they had until now been unbeaten after a draw and two away victories, including a 2-1 result at San Siro against Inter.

The Friulani switched to a 4-4-2 formation for this match, which hadn’t been used since last season, so was that a good idea?

“The idea was good,” Runjaic told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s not about the tactics, it’s about the interpretation of the single position. We didn’t do it well in shifting, especially on our right side, where we were too deep. Ehizibue should press Estupinan more, because we know how Milan are playing, they have one striker and the second is dropping deeper, so in every situation it is one against two.

“When it’s like that, it is not about the system, but individual mistakes. We invited them forward and we know teams at this level will take advantage. We made mistakes with three at the back in every game, so we changed something today, I take responsibility and I was convinced it could help, but tonight Milan were better in all aspects.”

Runjaic saw Udinese struggles against Milan

UDINE, ITALY – MARCH 01: Manager of Udinese Kosta Runjaic during the Serie A match between Udinese and Parma at Stadio Friuli on March 01, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Jurgen Ekkelenkamp told Sky Sport Italia after the match that there was a lack of energy, so what was the cause of that?

“It was his first game after injury during pre-season, so that put him out of rhythm. He is a good player, it’s easier for four with him in my opinion, we had the option of playing him today or on Tuesday in the Coppa Italia,” continued Runjaic.

“We have some players who are not ready at this level, we played a very organised, tough team with experienced players who for years have been at the very top level. It’s good experience, I take some really good moments for developing and improvement.

“Let’s keep going and focus on the next game.”

Check the Football Italia Player Ratings for Udinese 0-3 Milan

UDINE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Thomas Kristensen of Udinese Calcio gestures during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Friuli on September 20, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)

Nicolò Zaniolo arrived on deadline day to Udinese from Galatasaray, but has so far struggled for playing time as a late substitute.

“He needs time to adapt to the way we want to play. We demand a lot of running and defensive structure, so these are our foundations to face good teams,” continued Runjaic.

“He has not been with us for that long, the same goes for Zanoli and Miller, players arrived very late and need time to adapt. We don’t have friendly games, only Serie A, so we have to do it slowly.

“This is why it’s critical we have the Coppa Italia coming up against Palermo, which is a real game, but also one where we can try those new things.”