Ola Aina’s ex-manager set to lead Onuachu and Aribo at Southampton till 2026

Former Torino FC boss Ivan Jurić, who previously managed Nigerian defender Ola Aina, is set to become the new head coach of Southampton, overseeing Super Eagles duo Paul Onuachu and Joe Aribo, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Saints parted ways with Russell Martin following the team’s poor performances, culminating in a crushing 5-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, which left Southampton at the bottom of the English Premier League standings.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Southampton has agreed to appoint Jurić as their new head coach to replace Martin.

Recent updates confirm that the former AS Roma boss has arrived in England to finalise the deal. Jurić is expected to sign a contract valid until June 2026, with an additional two-year option included.

⚪️ Ivan Jurić, in England today in order to sign his contract valid until June 2026 as new Southampton head coach.

Jurić will also have a two-year option included into his contract at Saints FC. pic.twitter.com/J5JJNlnT4V

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 20, 2024

The Croatian manager will take charge of Onuachu, Aribo, and the rest of the squad, aiming to steer the Saints clear of relegation and avoid a return to the EFL Championship.

Jurić previously managed Ola Aina during his tenure at Torino from 2021 to 2024. Despite valuing the Nigerian defender, he was unable to prevent Aina’s transfer to Nottingham Forest. While managing AS Roma, the 49-year-old was reportedly interested in reuniting with Aina to strengthen his squad.

If the deal goes through, Aina will have the opportunity to reunite with his former boss—albeit as opponents on the pitch.