Juric Attributes Challenges Faced by Promoted Clubs to the ‘Entirely Distinct Physicality’ of the Premier League

According to Southampton’s manager Ivan Juric, the disparity in physicality between the Premier League and the second-tier Championship significantly contributed to the struggles faced by newly promoted clubs in England’s top division. This statement comes after Juric’s team recorded the earliest relegation in Premier League history.

Southampton, sitting at the bottom of the table, suffered a 3-1 defeat to Tottenham on Sunday, sealing their fate with a staggering seven matches remaining in the season.

Additionally, Ipswich and Leicester, the other two teams promoted from the Championship, are also teetering on the brink of relegation, as Wolverhampton, positioned 17th, sits 12 points clear of the relegation zone.

“What I’ve observed during my time here over the past few months is a striking difference in physicality between our team and other Premier League sides,” remarked Juric, who took the helm at Southampton in December following a challenging start to the season.

“I believe Leicester and Ipswich have encountered similar issues. The gap in physicality between the Championship and the Premier League is significant.

“When there’s a moment of transition, similar to what you’d see in a basketball game, it becomes challenging for us because the opponents are physically superior and quicker. This is the substantial difference.”

Juric, whose contract is set to last until the end of the 2025-26 season, expressed his commitment to helping the club navigate their way back to the Premier League if given the opportunity.

“Being a coach in the Premier League is truly rewarding, and if it takes me a while to return here, I am prepared for it,” said the former manager of Genoa, Torino, and AS Roma.

“Now, I need to discuss with the club regarding our strategies and future ideas, and evaluate if we can achieve this together.”