Udine, Italy – Sept 7, 2026: Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic watches the Serie A clash with Lazio at Stadio Friuli. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Runjaic believes Alaba will soon hit top form for Udinese, yet the ex‑Real Madrid star started on the bench against Torino on Monday night.
Speaking to DAZN before kickoff at Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, the coach detailed his choice, as reported by TuttoMercatoWeb.
Alaba arrived on a free transfer last month, signing until June 2027 after his Real Madrid deal expired in June. He claimed at his unveiling that he felt fit, but admits he hasn’t yet logged a full 90 minutes.
“I’m thrilled he signed and chose us,” Runjaic said. “His experience, quality and character will benefit us, and he settled into the squad quickly.” For my money, his leadership will lift the dressing room.
Runjaic on Alaba’s fitness: ‘We must manage him’
Nevertheless, the coach cautioned that Alaba’s lack of recent minutes demands a careful approach.
“His last official appearance was three months ago, so we must manage him wisely. He’s a model professional, ready on the bench, and may get minutes today. I’m confident he’ll soon be at his peak,” he added.
Udinese have managed just one win in five league fixtures, and Runjaic used the three‑week pause to fine‑tune details after the loss to Cagliari.
“The break after the Cagliari defeat was lengthy but needed. We had 13‑14 players daily to work on specifics and even played a friendly in Poland. It struck the right balance between rest and effort. Players returning from injuries, such as Arizala, Palma and Zanoli, are back; Zanoli’s minor fatigue was spared given his prior cruciate injury,” he explained.