Socrates

Giaccherini explains why Napoli are not favourites Juventus head into the weekend on a three-match winning run, yet many observers continue to regard Napoli as favourites for their upcoming meeting. Napoli remain the defending champions of Serie A and will enjoy home advantage against a Juventus side whose confidence has been fragile in recent months. Juve have found it difficult to maintain consistency and secure the number of victories they would have hoped for, leaving questions about whether they can produce their best form in Naples. Although the men in black and white believe in their prospects this season, they must demonstrate their quality by winning key fixtures, something they have not consistently achieved in recent weeks. ............ The match in Naples presents a significant test, particularly given Juve’s struggle to sustain momentum. While they remain optimistic, there is still uncertainty about how they will cope with a Napoli side that aims to defend its league crown and has shown signs of improvement. The men in black and white understand that their title ambitions depend on meeting high-level challenges with composure and authority. Their recent results offer encouragement, yet questions linger over whether they can rise to the occasion in one of the most demanding stadiums in Italy. The pressure will be substantial, and Juve will need to manage both the environment and the quality of the opposition if they are to maintain their positive run. ............ Former Juventus midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini, who has been closely monitoring both clubs this season, does not share the widespread belief that Napoli holds a clear advantage. He said, “Lobotka’s injury is extremely serious, he is the mind, he provides balance, he filters, he dictates things. Elmas and McTominay will play, but they will have to use their heads. Napoli are rediscovering their identity and individuality, like Neres and Lang, but Juve are doing well mentally, they are coming off three straight wins, and Spalletti’s work is evident. I do not think Napoli are the favourites, the match is still open.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/former-juventus-star-explains-why-napoli-are-not-favourites/

Antonio Cabrini expects Juventus to feel pressure of Napoli home Antonio Cabrini has offered a detailed insight into what Juventus should expect as they prepare for a demanding away trip to Napoli this weekend. The former Juventus defender understands the unique atmosphere and intensity that await the Bianconeri, who are aiming to extend their current run of three consecutive victories. While Juventus approach the match with confidence, Napoli remains determined to defend their league crown, ensuring a highly competitive and emotionally charged encounter. ............ Juventus now possess several of the finest players in Italy and has begun to demonstrate a more convincing level of performance. The men in black and white regard themselves as one of the strongest sides globally and continue to work tirelessly to reaffirm that belief. Even so, the challenge of playing in Naples is widely recognised within football. The home support is famously passionate and can create an atmosphere that affects even the most experienced opponents. Juventus, accustomed to performing in hostile stadiums, must prove that they can rise above the intensity and maintain their composure. Despite this familiarity with difficult environments, the trip to Napoli is expected to be one of their most testing away fixtures of the season. ............ Cabrini offered his reflections on what the Bianconeri can anticipate. He explained, “Playing in Naples is a different kind of away game, you can take Maradona’s pressure or react with strength and personality. That is a stadium that can both energise you and potentially put pressure on you. Of course, when we came there, and Maradona was there, everything was more complicated, regardless of the crowd.” His comments underline the dual nature of the environment, which can either lift a visiting player’s performance or unsettle a team unable to withstand the atmosphere. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/antonio-cabrini-expects-juventus-to-feel-pressure-of-napoli-home/

Ravezzani backs Juventus decision not to sleep in Naples before match Juventus’ preparations for their trip to Naples have taken an unexpected turn, with Luciano Spalletti choosing not to follow the usual routine for an away match of this magnitude. Traditionally, visiting teams travel to their opponents’ city the night before a fixture to ensure proper rest and avoid any disruption on matchday. Juventus have long adopted this practice, ensuring their players arrive settled, focused and physically ready for the challenge ahead. However, ahead of their meeting with Napoli at the Maradona Stadium, Spalletti has surprised many by keeping his squad in Turin for the night. Instead of travelling early, the team will make the journey to Naples on the morning of the match. The decision has sparked debate among supporters and pundits, with many questioning whether such an adjustment could affect the players’ condition or mindset. ............ The move has been widely discussed in the media in recent hours, with many attempting to interpret the reasoning behind it. Yet for all the speculation, the Juventus boss remains focused solely on what he feels is best for his players. ............ One figure who supports the change is Fabio Ravezzani, who sees the logic behind avoiding a hotel stay in Naples. He explained: “Spalletti is right not to take Juve to sleep in a hotel in Naples. Better a day trip than staying up half the night because of bangs and noise outside the hotel.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/journalist-backs-juventus-decision-not-to-sleep-in-naples-before-match/

Domenico Marocchino reveals how he thinks Juventus will approach Napoli game Juventus are preparing for a crucial Serie A clash against Napoli this weekend, a fixture that could have significant implications for its season. Although the Bianconeri possess some of the strongest players in Italy, they risk underachieving once again if results do not improve. Recent years have followed a similar pattern, and the pressure is on to ensure they avoid another disappointing campaign. A win in Naples would go a long way towards restoring momentum. ............ The Bianconeri know they have the quality required to claim victory, but playing in Naples is a challenge that even experienced sides can struggle to manage. Their recent improvement offers encouragement, yet the margin for error will be slim. Both teams understand the stakes, and the early stages of the match could prove decisive in shaping the tactical approach. ............ Former Juventus player Domenico Marocchino has now shared his thoughts on how the club might handle the fixture. He said: “In Naples, the priority will be to avoid conceding and then look for the knockout blow at the end; otherwise, they risk coming back. The coach clearly doesn’t want to dwell too much on this game, which is almost a small burden for Juve, both because of Conte’s presence on the other side and because Napoli have been stealing the show from the Bianconeri for some time. Practically speaking, little will change: I imagine Juve will travel on a private plane, so there won’t be any repercussions on their approach or the players’ condition.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/domenico-marocchino-reveals-how-he-thinks-juventus-will-approach-napoli-game/

Spalletti feels David’s ‘reaction’ before Conte and Napoli’s ‘exam’ Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti can ‘feel’ Jonathan David’s reaction, but will decide the Bianconeri’s XI for a game against Napoli tomorrow: ‘It has happened to me to change something during the night.’ Spalletti’s Juventus visit Napoli at the Stadio Maradona on Sunday in the big match of Serie A Round 14. ............ “The Juventus shirt is made for this. For winning matches,” Spalletti said at a pre-match press conference. “We’re not living a great moment, but that has to be our status. It’s important because it gives you confidence, but we need to be strong and free spirits. It’s important to see that in training, we’re going out and grabbing new things. “This is a match that can say a lot about the future of our league, and we’ll dedicate everything we have to it,” Spalletti continued. “It’s an exam where we have to be ready. We know it’s a difficult match, we’re going to play against the champions of Italy.” ............ “We’ve met many times around, once we even played a friendly against each other, and we met at Coverciano,” said the Juventus boss. “Conte is a good coach; he has shown that. As a person, I can’t say much because I don’t see him every day. For the rest, I go by what I see on the pitch, and he’s a top coach.” ............ “It doesn’t depend on words, but on the tempo, the rhythm, and what you personally want to go and grab,” Spalletti said. “David is a sensitive, smart, strong guy, physically powerful, and I think he pushes himself to show what he’s really made of. He carries certain numbers behind him, and I can feel his reaction; that’s the right thing.” ............ “In games like these, you take all the available time before choosing the formation. I feel like I’ve got it, but it has happened to me to change something during the night.” ............ Spalletti, an ex-Napoli coach, and Juventus will likely get a hostile reception at the Maradona tomorrow. “We made each other happy for two years. Incredible emotions, especially in the Scudetto season,” said the Bianconeri boss. “Beautiful stories have the power of immortality, and this one will always be like that. Then I lived other important experiences: Roma, Inter, Napoli. Today I’m an opponent, and I don’t know what will happen tomorrow. I know they’re missing something in midfield, we’re missing something in defence for a while now, and so we still have to try and win. They have a past that gives them certainties, and we are searching for certainties.” ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-david-reaction-conte-napoli-exam/

Juventus joins the race for exciting Greek teenager Juventus have been linked with a move for Christos Mouzakitis as the teenage talent continues to make a strong impression at Olympiacos. Despite being only 18, he has already featured in more than 50 competitive matches for the Greek side, a remarkable achievement that underlines the level of trust placed in him from a young age. Since breaking into the spotlight at 16, he has been widely regarded as a player with significant potential, and Olympiacos have worked hard to keep him within their ranks. ............ As Mouzakitis’ development continues, it is becoming increasingly clear that he is among the players Olympiacos may eventually need to sell. His performances have attracted attention from several major European clubs, all of whom have tracked his progress over recent seasons. Juventus are now among the sides monitoring him closely, recognising his potential and the possibility of securing a long-term asset for their squad. ............ While the youngster is expected to seek a move to a bigger club and a more competitive league at some stage, it remains uncertain whether he feels ready to take that step now. Olympiacos continue to offer him regular playing time and a stable environment for development, factors that could influence the timing of his eventual departure. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-joins-the-race-for-exciting-greek-teenager/

Juventus likely to get McKennie on a new deal Juventus are dealing with growing uncertainty over the futures of several players as it begins shaping the squad for the next stage of its project. ............ Weston McKennie has been a central figure for Juventus since arriving in 2020, developing into a reliable and versatile presence within the side. His ability to operate effectively in multiple roles has made him a valuable asset as the club continues to compete on various fronts. Over the last few seasons, his consistency has been notable, and despite his contract expiring in the summer, his performances have shown no signs of distraction. ............ Juventus is determined to keep McKennie at all costs and intends to begin concrete efforts to secure a new agreement in the coming months. Club officials consider him a key component of their project, both in terms of experience and tactical flexibility, and are expected to prioritise negotiations as they approach a pivotal summer. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-likely-to-get-in-form-star-on-a-new-deal/

Giaccherini on David’s chance and McTominay’s duty in Napoli vs. Juventus Emanuele Giaccherini doesn’t feel Napoli are necessarily favourites in a Serie A match against Juventus, sees a ‘chance’ for Jonathan David and says Scott McTominay will have to ‘use his head’ against the Bianconeri. Napoli and Juventus meet at the Stadio Maradona in the big match of Serie A Round 14 on Sunday. ............ Tomorrow’s encounter will be the first time Conte and Luciano Spalletti, an ex-Napoli coach, meet in a competitive match. “It will be a fantastic matchup. Conte is a great professional, and he always supports the team he’s coaching,” Giaccherini said. “First at Inter, now at Napoli. His heart is black and white. He made history at Juve both as a player and as a coach, but of course, right now, he wants to beat them. Last season, he deservedly won the Scudetto, something extraordinary. ............ Conte will have to cope without several key players, including central midfielders Kevin De Bruyne, Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Stanislav Lobotka. “Lobotka’s injury is massive; he’s the brain of the team, and he brings balance, screens the defence and builds the play. Elmas and McTominay will play, but they’ll need to use their heads,” Giaccherini noted. ............ “Juventus can dominate. I expect a great personality and a desire to take control of the game. Spalletti has put a lot of players in their ideal positions. Koopmeiners, McKennie and Kostic have been revitalised, and Yildiz has more freedom to show his flair and talent,” continued the former midfielder. “Now, they need goals from the strikers who historically score a lot under him. With Vlahovic out, it’s a chance for David to rediscover himself. After all, he’s scored over 100 goals in his career.” ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/giaccherini-david-chance-mctominay-juventus/

Damiani calls for patience with Jonathan David Juventus brought in Jonathan David during the summer after his impressive spell at Lille, where he had established himself as one of the most reliable goalscorers in Ligue 1. The club believed they had secured a forward capable of stepping in for Dusan Vlahovic, especially as they expected to move the Serbian on in the previous transfer window with his contract due to expire at the end of the current campaign. ............ David’s early difficulties have caused frustration among supporters and decision makers, who had hoped for a seamless transition. Despite this, he is now working to make the most of the opportunity presented by Vlahovic’s current injury, aiming to prove that he can still be a decisive figure for Juventus. The club remain hopeful that he can find his rhythm, as they require greater output from him in their push to finish the season strongly. ............ Journalist Oscar Damiani, who monitored David closely during his time in France, has encouraged Juventus to remain patient. He said, “David? The guys who play in the French league or in other leagues always struggle to fit in here, where we play more tactical football, where there’s little space. In my opinion, the lad has important qualities, both physically and technically. I think we need to wait for him, have a moment’s patience, because he’s a lad with important qualities.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/journalist-calls-for-patience-with-jonathan-david/

Juventus and Napoli set for transfer duels with 50% sell-on twist Juventus and Napoli are both interested in Tiago Gabriel (Lecce) and Rodri Mendoza (Elche), but the Partenopei are also watching Tarik Muharemović, on whom the Bianconeri hold a 50% sell-on clause. ............ Both Giovanni Manna (Napoli) and Damien Comolli (Juventus) are interested in Lecce defender Tiago Gabriel, 20, who has just started his first season in Serie A, having joined the Salentini from Portuguese side Estrela Amadora for circa €1.2m last summer. ............ On the other hand, Elche’s Rodri Mendoza is a possible reinforcement in central midfield for Juve and Napoli. The 20-year-old has a €20m clause in his contract. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-napoli-transfer-duels-50-sell-on/

Balzarini discusses what he expects from the Napoli-Juventus match Juventus take on Napoli this weekend in a highly anticipated encounter, with both clubs managing significant injury concerns as they pursue important points in the title race. The men in black and white are determined to secure victory, particularly given their recent fitness setbacks. Napoli, meanwhile, arrives with an even more depleted midfield, a situation that has affected their rhythm and consistency as they attempt to defend the league crown they won last season. Despite these challenges, the match remains a meeting of two top clubs with the quality to defeat each other, making the outcome potentially influential for their ambitions. ............ Juventus have been forced to cope without Dusan Vlahovic and Federico Gatti among several other unavailable players, a situation that has stretched their resources at a demanding stage of the season. Napoli face similar difficulties, their midfield having been severely disrupted by fitness problems. This has left both sides needing to adapt, with tactical decisions likely to be shaped by the players available rather than those ordinarily preferred. For Juventus, the aim is clear. They want to stay as close to the top of the table as possible, and to do so, they must secure maximum points in decisive fixtures such as this. The men in black and white will therefore be keen to exploit any shortcomings within the Napoli side. ............ Journalist Gianni Balzarini has offered his thoughts on the encounter and expects a match that, while shaped by absences, will still offer high-level football. He said, “I do not think there were any tears from the Neapolitans. I partially agree with those who say this match is less spectacular due to absences on both sides. However, it is still a high-level match. I think it is a spectacular match in its own way.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/journalist-discusses-what-he-expects-from-the-napoli-juventus-match/

Dejan Savicevic worried about Adzic’s development after he advised him to leave on loan Vasilije Adzic is regarded as one of the most exciting young players in the current Juventus squad, yet he continues to struggle for meaningful game time. The men in black and white hope he will eventually develop into a world-class footballer and become an important figure within their setup, but the depth of experience in the squad has made it difficult for him to earn regular minutes. His progression depends on consistent involvement, and although this is recognised internally, the opportunities he requires have not materialised. ............ During the summer, there were suggestions that Adzic might leave on loan in order to secure the playing time necessary for his growth. A temporary move was expected to provide him with the experience of regular Serie A football, something Juventus currently cannot guarantee. Despite this, the youngster chose to remain at the Allianz Stadium and fight for his place in the team. That decision has not yet paid off. Luciano Spalletti has overlooked him in several recent matches, creating growing concern about the direction of his development at such a crucial stage in his career. ............ Dejan Savicevic, president of the Montenegro FA, has now expressed his worry about the midfielder’s situation. He said, “He is going through a tough time. He was supposed to leave Juventus in June to play a year at a mid level Serie A team. He would have had more consistency and gained confidence. He barely played last year, he is limited playing time, I would have expected him to be given more after his goal against Inter. He cannot play so little, he has got great quality, but he needs to spend a year elsewhere and then return to Juventus. I advised him what I am telling you six months ago, but he did not listen. He told me that Tudor had assured him he would get playing time.” . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/dejan-savicevic-worried-about-adzics-development-after-he-advised-him-to-leave-on-loan/

Napoli vs Juventus: Italian press anticipate ‘special encounter’ between Conte & Spalletti Despite the careers of Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti and Napoli boss Antonio Conte being long and storied, both coaches spending lots of time leading clubs in Italy’s top flight and abroad, the two have never met in a competitive capacity. ............ Juventus currently sit five points behind Sunday’s opposition, with the Bianconeri all the way down in 7th place. It is a very close race in the upper echelons of the table but Juventus are still yet to lose under Spalletti. ............ Since his arrival, the Old Lady have won four games in all competitions, drawing three-in-a-row in November. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/napoli-vs-juventus-conte-spalletti-special/

Preview: Napoli vs Juventus - prediction, team news, lineups Headlining Serie A's 14th matchday, Italian giants Napoli and Juventus will convene for a heavyweight clash at Stadio Maradona on Sunday. ............ Match preview Reigning Serie A champions Napoli seem to have rediscovered their spark, following a switch of formation and personnel that was largely brought about by absences. ............ Remarkably, Conte will finally face his fellow ex-Italy coach Luciano Spalletti for the first time, aiming to extend Napoli's newfound supremacy over Juventus: they have won all of the last six meetings in Naples. Once dominant over their southern counterparts, Juve have lost seven of 11 league matches against Napoli since 2020, and they currently trail five points behind in the table. Adding to the intrigue, Spalletti is set to encounter his old club for the first time since walking out after ending their long Scudetto drought in 2023. The Bianconeri's new boss is still unbeaten - with four victories and three draws so far - having posted three wins from three across a trio of competitions by beating Udinese in midweek. Like Napoli, Juventus are through to the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, with Tuesday's 2-0 triumph setting up a last-eight clash against Atalanta. Previously, they had beaten Bodo/Glimt in Europe before seeing off Cagliari in Serie A, so the chaos that Spalletti inherited seems to be finding some order. While Juve still trail Italy's top six, confidence may be rising towards the end of another tough year, and a statement victory on Sunday could even take them into the title race. Napoli Serie A form: W W D L W W Napoli form (all competitions): D L W W W W Juventus Serie A form: L W W D D W Juventus form (all competitions): D D D W W W Team News ............ As Dusan Vlahovic has been ruled out until 2026, either Lois Openda or Jonathan David will lead Juve's attack - the latter was preferred against Udinese. Spalletti also made some changes in the Coppa Italia, notably welcoming back first-choice goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio. The manager is still without several players, though: centre-backs Federico Gatti, Bremer and Daniele Rugani are all out of contention. Once again, the Bianconeri's key creator will be Kenan Yildiz, but all seven of his Serie A goal involvements this season have come in Turin. Napoli possible starting lineup: Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Buongiorno; Di Lorenzo, Elmas, McTominay, Olivera; Neres, Lang; Hojlund Juventus possible starting lineup: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Kelly, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Kostic; Conceicao, Yildiz; David We say: Napoli 1-0 Juventus Completing an unbeaten calendar year on home turf, injury-hit Napoli can grind out another grim win over Juventus. Regardless of recent results, Italy's most successful club are still in an institutional crisis, while the champions raise their game when the going gets tough. . Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/napoli/preview/napoli-vs-juventus-prediction-team-news-lineups_587221.html

“Tactically, he’s phenomenal” Perin opens up on working with Spalletti Mattia Perin has experienced working under numerous managers during his long tenure at Juventus, and he remains a key figure within the squad. The Azzurri goalkeeper continues to serve as the club’s second choice but is striving to become the first choice under Luciano Spalletti. The manager has begun offering him opportunities, and Perin has been attentive to the demands of Spalletti’s coaching, seeking to make a greater impact when called upon. ............ Having collaborated with several coaches throughout his career, Perin has now shared his thoughts on working with Spalletti at Juventus. Many observers regard the manager as ideally suited to lead the team and have placed their trust in his ability to return Juve to the summit of Italian football. Nonetheless, Spalletti has encountered challenges that have, at times, slowed the progress his side might have achieved. In recent games, Juventus have begun to fulfil expectations, and Perin has been particularly impressed with the insights and tactical guidance provided by the manager. ............ He said, “Tactically, he’s phenomenal, truly incredible, obsessive. He reads the pitch like an absolute champion. Daniele De Rossi, who spent many years at Roma, spoke to me about it when we were on the national team together, and now I really understand what he was saying. Tactically, he’s one of the best. He pays attention to details, to the little things, to a meticulousness that’s truly out of the ordinary, inhuman, and this certainly helps us improve both individually and as a group.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/tactically-hes-phenomenal-perin-opens-up-on-working-with-spalletti/