Udinese return from the international break with a broader choice on the flanks, an encouraging development for Kosta Runjaic as his side prepares to face Torino at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino on Monday night. The Friulani have made their worst start to a league campaign since Runjaic took charge, but the recovery of several wide players offers the coach greater depth as he looks to change the early-season direction.
Key takeaways
- Udinese will keep Vojvoda on the right and Kamara on the left against Torino.
- Alessandro Zanoli has returned to official action after a cruciate ligament injury.
- The former Napoli player played 19 minutes in the match against Cagliari.
- Arizala is available again after more than a month out with a right hamstring problem.
- Kamara has contributed two goals and one assist in Udinese’s opening five league matches.
More options for Runjaic’s wing roles
Playing with a three-man defence places particular demands on Udinese’s wide players, who are required to provide work at both ends of the pitch. Before the break, the positions had largely belonged to Vojvoda and Kamara, but the group is now stronger after a period in which injuries had narrowed Runjaic’s options.
Zanoli is again in contention after his official return against Cagliari. His 19-minute appearance marked the end of his absence following the rupture of his cruciate ligament. The defender will be aiming to reclaim the regular starting role he held last season before the injury interrupted his campaign.
Arizala has also completed his recovery. A muscle injury to the biceps femoris in his right thigh kept him away from the side for over a month, and he is now ready to compete for a place and establish himself in Serie A.
Continuity at Torino before competition takes hold
Despite the welcome increase in available personnel, Udinese are not expected to alter the selections that have shaped the first five rounds of the championship. Vojvoda should continue on the right, while Kamara is set to retain the left-sided role in Turin.
The Kosovo international has produced an uneven opening to the season. There have been strong displays, alongside defensive lapses that have appeared out of character for a player of his experience, though his overall contribution has not been disappointing.
Kamara, the Franco-Ivorian, has been among the brighter figures in a difficult start. His two goals and one assist have made him one of Udinese’s most productive players so far, even as the team’s collective results have fallen below expectations.
Monday’s trip to Torino will therefore begin with continuity, but it comes at a point when Runjaic can finally expect genuine competition around the wide positions. For a side seeking to leave behind its poorest opening under the current coach, that renewed depth could become an important part of the next chapter of the season.
