Udinese director Gokhan Inler addresses future as contract nears expiry
Udinese technical director Gokhan Inler has confirmed his contract with the club expires at the end of the current season, though he expressed a desire to remain. The former Swiss international midfielder, who has held the directorial role for two seasons, stated that discussions regarding his future will take place after the campaign concludes.
Inler made his remarks while outlining the club's immediate sporting objectives, emphasizing the target of reaching 50 points and finishing in Serie A's top ten. Udinese currently sit in the lower half of the table as the season enters its final stages. The 39-year-old's administrative future, however, remains uncertain despite his stated preference to stay. "At the end of the season the contract that binds me to the bianconero world will expire, but we will sit at a table and talk," Inler said. "I don't yet know what will happen, but in reality I would be happy to stay with the jersey of the club of Friuli Venezia Giulia, I hope it is a good omen."
The former Napoli and Leicester City player transitioned into a front-office role with Udinese following his retirement from playing in 2022. His tenure has overseen a period of consolidation for the Friulian club, which is known for its sustainable model and development of young talent. The potential departure of a key figure in the technical department would mark a significant shift in the club's structure ahead of the summer transfer window.
Inler's comments shift focus onto Udinese's planning for the upcoming season, where stability in leadership will be crucial. The club's ownership, the Pozzo family, faces decisions not only on Inler's position but also on the futures of several players. The article sourcing Inler's quotes also briefly referenced midfielder Nicolò Zaniolo's recent performance, hinting at the broader squad considerations the director and ownership must address. For now, Inler's situation adds an element of off-pitch intrigue to Udinese's season finale, with his future set to be clarified in the coming weeks.
