Udinese Calcio is delighted to announce that Paolo Zanetti has been appointed as the new head coach of the first team, on a contract running until 30 June 2027.
Born in Valdagno near Vicenza on 16 December 1982, Zanetti played for various clubs including Empoli, Torino and Atalanta and earned five Italy U21 caps.
After hanging up his boots, he began his coaching career at the age of 33 with the Reggiana U18 team. His first experience at a professional level came with Sudtirol in the 2017/18 season. After two successful seasons in Bolzano, he got the call to take over at Ascoli in Serie B.
Zanetti's breakthrough season came 2020/21, when he got Venezia promoted to Serie A for the first time in 19 years. He remained in charge the following season before moving to Empoli, whom he steered to a comfortable mid-table finish in 2022/23. His most recent experience in Serie A was with Verona, leading them to 14th place in 2024/25. He remained in charge there until February 2026.
Now Paolo Zanetti is ready to embark on a new challenge at Udinese. He will take his first training session with the team on Tuesday afternoon and will be unveiled to the media on Wednesday at 15:00.
On behalf of everyone at the club, welcome to Udine, coach!