Udinese have confirmed that Gokhan Inler has signed a contract extension with the club, committing his future until 2028. The former Switzerland international, who currently serves as the club’s technical area manager, agreed to the new terms following a positive season for the Serie A side.
The announcement came during celebrations marking owner Giampaolo Pozzo’s 85th birthday and the club’s 32nd consecutive season in Italy’s top flight. Pozzo expressed his desire to return Udinese to European competition, stating the club would make necessary sacrifices to achieve that goal. He reflected on the difficulty of maintaining Serie A status for so long, acknowledging the contributions of staff, management, and players.
Inler joined Udinese in a technical capacity two years ago, following a distinguished playing career that included spells at Napoli, Leicester City, and Grasshopper. Since transitioning into management, he has been credited with fostering a stronger team spirit and implementing modern training methods, including opening sessions to the public and organizing inclusive team events. These initiatives have been praised for strengthening the bond between players and the wider club community.
“I am enthusiastic about the extension,” Inler stated, expressing his gratitude to the ownership and management for their shared ambition. He emphasized Udinese’s historical significance and the importance of maintaining a strong club identity while striving for sporting success. Udinese’s director general, Franco Collavino, lauded Inler’s commitment and modern approach to technical management, noting his qualities as both a player and a person. The club finished tenth in Serie A this past season, and the extension of Inler’s contract signals a commitment to continuity under manager Kosta Runjaic as they aim for a European qualification push.
