Serie A side Atalanta officially announced on Monday that they have parted ways with Croatian head coach Ivan Juric.
The decision came after a poor run of form, with the team going seven consecutive matches without a victory, ultimately testing the club’s management’s patience.
Atalanta’s official statement read: “The club announces that Ivan Juric has been relieved of his duties as head coach. His coaching staff, Matteo Paro, Miguel Veloso, Paolo Barbero, Stjepan Ostojić, and Michele Orecchio, have also left the club.”
“Atalanta thanks Ivan Juric and his team for their dedication during this period and wishes them the best in their future endeavours.”
Poor Results Drop Atalanta to 13th Place
In the recently concluded 11th round of Serie A, Atalanta suffered a heavy 0–3 home defeat to newly promoted Sassuolo, their second consecutive league loss.
With a record of two wins, seven draws, and two losses, Atalanta currently sits 13th in the standings with 13 points. For a team that finished third in Serie A last season, such results are clearly disappointing.
Juric’s Turbulent Coaching Career: Three Sackings in One Year
The 50-year-old Juric had an unremarkable playing career and has struggled to find lasting success as a coach. Since retiring in 2010, he has served as Genoa U19 coach, Inter Milan tactical assistant, and Palermo assistant coach.
In July 2014, Juric took charge of Mantova, his first senior managerial position, but left a year later to join Crotone. He then returned to Genoa three separate times, though none of his spells lasted more than a year.
Juric’s coaching journey has been full of ups and downs. In November last year, he was dismissed by AS Roma after just 53 days in charge.
In April this year, he briefly managed Southampton but was unable to prevent the club’s relegation, losing his position after only 106 days.
Being dismissed three times within a single year makes Juric one of the most unfortunate coaches in European football in recent years.
Another Wave of Sackings in Serie A
Before Juric’s dismissal, Tudor, Vieira, and Pioli had already been sacked this season by Juventus, Genoa, and Fiorentina, respectively. Juric thus becomes the fourth managerial casualty in Serie A this campaign.
It’s worth noting that last season, Atalanta, under veteran coach Gian Piero Gasperini, finished third and showcased an impressive attacking style of football.
However, since Gasperini’s departure this summer, the team under new leadership has lost its spark and tactical identity. The current slump may well be the price of that transition.
