Southampton’s Ivan Juric Aims to Revive Season with 'Death Metal' Football

The newly appointed manager brings an aggressive, high-intensity style as he takes on the challenge of saving the Premier League’s bottom side from relegation.

• Ivan Juric, a 49-year-old Croatian manager, has signed an 18-month contract to lead Southampton out of the relegation zone after their poor start to the Premier League season.
• Juric describes his tactical philosophy as resembling 'death metal'—a high-pressing, intense style of play inspired by his love of the music genre in his youth.
• Southampton currently sit at the bottom of the Premier League table with six points from 17 matches, eight points away from safety, and winless in their last seven games.
• Juric acknowledges the historical difficulty of avoiding relegation from such a position but remains optimistic, emphasizing the team’s youth, work ethic, and potential to achieve 'something exceptional.'
• His first match in charge will be against West Ham United on Boxing Day, following his official start after securing a work permit and observing Southampton’s recent draw with Fulham.

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