Igor Tudor, 46, returns to Juventus as manager, replacing the sacked Thiago Motta. The appointment comes after a period of disappointing results for the Bianconeri, and Tudor’s task is to immediately stabilize the team and secure a Champions League qualification spot. The Croatian brings with him a combination of playing experience at the highest level and a varied managerial career across several leagues.
Playing Career:
As a player, Tudor was a commanding defender, known for his physicality and aerial ability. He spent the prime years of his career at Juventus, making 110 appearances and scoring 15 goals after joining the club in 1998. He was a key part of successful Juventus sides, winning Serie A titles. He also earned 55 caps for the Croatian national team, representing them at major tournaments.
Igor Tudor is the new Head Coach of the Men’s First Team. Welcome, Igor!
Juventus thanks Thiago Motta for his work, passion and dedication during his time with the club.
— JuventusFC
(@juventusfcen) March 23, 2025
Managerial Career:
Tudor began his managerial journey at his boyhood club, Hajduk Split in Croatia, in 2013. His career path since then has been characterized by relatively short stints at a variety of clubs:
- Hajduk Split (Croatia): His first managerial role, providing foundational experience.
- Galatasaray (Turkey): Experience in a high-pressure environment outside of his comfort zone.
- Udinese (Italy): First foray into Serie A management.
- Hellas Verona (Italy): Further experience in the Italian top flight.
- Marseille (France): A spell in Ligue 1, broadening his tactical knowledge.
- Lazio (Italy): His most recent role. He joined Lazio on March 18, 2024, following Maurizio Sarri’s resignation, but resigned on June 5, 2024, at the conclusion of the 2023-24 season. This short tenure suggests potential disagreements with the club’s hierarchy or a desire for a different challenge.
- Juventus (Italy): Assistant coach under Andrea Pirlo in the 2020-21 season. This prior experience within the Juventus setup gives him valuable inside knowledge of the club’s culture and expectations.
The Juventus Challenge:
Tudor’s appointment is a clear indication of Juventus’s desire for immediate improvement. He replaces Thiago Motta, who was dismissed after a string of poor results, including consecutive heavy defeats and exits from both the Champions League and Coppa Italia. Tudor’s familiarity with the club, both as a player and a former assistant coach, should allow him to quickly adapt to the demands of the role. However, he faces a significant challenge in restoring confidence and securing a top-four finish in Serie A. His previous experience in the league, combined with his knowledge of Juventus, will be crucial in achieving this objective.
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