How Ivan Jurić Could Revolutionise Southampton & Tip the Scales of Their Survival Push
Newly-appointed Ivan Urić was relatively accomplished in Italy despite a recent rough tenure with Roma. But what is his tactical prowess? How will he adapt this to suit Southampton and their plethora of players?
Russell Martin’s biggest problem was his inability to accumulate points alongside his philosophy in the Premier League, so it is hardly surprising that, in Ivan Jurić, the club has chosen a manager with a more pragmatic and defensive-minded approach.
Coaching Career So Far
Throughout his managerial career, the Croatian has been deployed in Italy. From achieving promotion with Crotone—a first in the club’s history—to maintaining stability with Hellas Verona and Torino in the Serie A. But will he adapt to the Premier League?
Despite being trophyless thus far, a recurring theme is noticed: his ability to work under pressure with minimal financial support is phenomenal, especially useful for Southampton, who have to follow Profit & Sustainability rules.
Formation and Tactical Approach
Conveniently for the Saints, Ivan Jurić is known for his 3-4-2-1 setup. A defensive three-back, which Southampton has predominantly used this campaign, even with Simon Rusk, who opted for it against Liverpool this past week.
This structure used by the 49-year-old emphasises flexibility in the attack and solidity in the defence. It demonstrates his commitment to a balance between attacking football and defensive compactness.
Defensive Organisation
The Croatian usually settles for a man-man marking system, requiring high levels of aggression and consistent winning in duels.
The wingbacks are pivotal within his system. They offer the necessary width and occupy crossing positions by hugging the touchlines. Southampton defenders Ryan Manning and Yukinari Sugawara have the most successful crosses in the team, a duo that will likely be employed by the new manager.
Pressing Philosophy
His teams are well-known for their offensive transitions and aggressive high pressing. This focus on pressing high ensures counter-attack opportunities, unlike Russell Martin’s approach, which frequently found his team on the receiving end of counter-attacks. This style, while not being notably pleasing to the eye, has proven satisfactory in achieving results, a reported key factor in Sport Republic’s decision.
The main aim of this pressing system is to disrupt the opposition’s tempo and shut them down quickly. Pace is a desired characteristic of his frontline; Southampton forwards Cameron Archer and Kamaldeen Sulemana could prove beneficial as they play best off the defender’s shoulder alongside closing down opposing defenders.
Role of the Attacking Midfielders Behind the Striker
Due to his defensive rigidity, many will assume that his teams are restricting and robotic. However, this isn’t the case; he intentionally promotes freedom and interchangeability within his front three.
As seen by his time at Torino, the central striker will drop deep, allowing for either of the two behind to attack the created space. They will often rotate to drag defenders out and imply a sense of unpredictability to their opponents when in possession.
Possessional Differences
Former manager Russell Martin was known for implementing a possession-dominant style of buildup. Focusing on ball retention and exhausting opponents for large periods of games.
While it was successful in the Championship, this strategy led to difficulties in the Premier League, with the Scotsman managing one win in 16. Ivan Jurić has ideas of playing out the back but might employ this as one aspect of his game plan.
This transition from Martin to Jurić represents the Southampton board’s understanding of their current situation. They still desire expansive football but have concluded that they must sacrifice possession for pragmatism and adaptive game management in search of points on the board.
Possible Lineup Under Jurić
A player poised to start is academy graduate Tyler Dibling.
He will be crucial to the Saints, no matter the manager. His breakthrough season has come at the perfect time, however, possibly covering up the cracks of the recent summer transfer window.
The midfield is prominent in any team. Having a player of Flynn Downes‘ caliber is beneficial due to his cardiovascular ability, running the most of any player for Southampton this season. A trait that Ivan Jurić will desire and appreciate within his midfield pair.
Neither the captain (Jack Stephens) nor vice captain (Adam Armstrong) have warranted their selection thus far. This role should be assigned to central defender Jan Bednarek, who has revived his career at St. Marys over the past season and has shown true leadership qualities in this young side.
Can Ivan Jurić Save This Southampton Side?
Implementing a new style during a season will always come with significant hurdles. The Croatian has exemplified his potential to handle this task, but both he and the players will need to step up and prove their worth in the Premier League.
It won’t be easy but will the Saints rise above this challenge and secure their survival, or will they falter and face the bitter taste of relegation once more?
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