Ivan Juric Expresses Optimism For Southampton's Survival In Premier League Relegation Battle

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Ivan Juric has taken over as Southampton's manager, replacing Russell Martin. Despite the team's struggles, Juric believes they can avoid relegation from the Premier League. He previously managed Roma in Serie A but was dismissed after 12 games. Juric watched Southampton's recent draw with Fulham from the stands while awaiting his work permit.

Southampton is at the bottom of the Premier League table with only six points from 17 matches. They have won just once this season, against Everton in early November. The team has also failed to score in their last three league games, although they did manage a clean sheet against Fulham.

Their goal drought is their longest since a five-game stretch between September and October 2018. Juric's first match in charge will be against West Ham on Boxing Day. Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful about keeping the team in the top division.

Juric acknowledges the difficulty of his task but remains optimistic. "It will be a very tough job and I know that nobody in history has stayed in the league in this situation, but I am optimistic," he stated during his introduction. He emphasized the importance of mentality and motivation among players to achieve something unprecedented.

Juric plans to implement a high-pressure style of play, aiming for competitiveness and solidity in every game. His focus is on ensuring that his team competes fiercely each match.

Juric's Background and Ambitions

Before joining Southampton, Juric managed several Italian clubs including Mantova, Crotone, Genoa, Hellas Verona, Torino, and Roma. He expressed enthusiasm about his new role in English football, describing it as an opportunity to engage with top players and stadiums.

"The Premier League is the best league in the world," Juric remarked. He had been interested in Southampton for years and had previously been in contact with them. Having watched all their games this year, he sees both potential and areas for improvement within the team.

Boxing Day Prospects

Juric hopes to start his tenure positively given Southampton's strong Boxing Day record at home. They have lost only one of their last eight home league matches on this day (W5 D2), though that loss came against Brighton last year.

The Croatian manager is eager to make an impact at St Mary's Stadium by leveraging past performances and building on them for future success.