Socrates

Juventus vs Como 1907: Preview and Prediction Separated by just one place in the Serie A table, Juventus and Como meet in Turin on Saturday with both sides chasing UEFA Champions League qualification, albeit from very different trajectories. Juventus return home wounded after a sobering midweek collapse in Istanbul. A 5-2 defeat to Galatasaray has left their European campaign hanging by a thread, undoing what had been a steady run under Luciano Spalletti. The Bianconeri led 2-1 at halftime thanks to a Teun Koopmeiners brace, only to unravel under relentless second-half pressure. A late red card for Juan Cabal compounded the damage in what was arguably their most chaotic performance of the season. That result followed another setback in the Derby d’Italia, where Juventus fell 3-2 to Inter despite mounting a spirited comeback after Pierre Kalulu’s dismissal. Defensive lapses at critical moments have dented their top-four push, yet they remain only a point behind fourth-placed AS Roma ahead of a pivotal clash next week. Domestically, though, Juventus have been formidable in Turin. They are unbeaten at home in Serie A this season and have not lost a league match at the Allianz Stadium for nearly a year. That resilience could prove decisive as they seek to steady the ship. ............ Team News & Tactics Juventus Juventus head into this fixture with defensive and attacking concerns following their midweek European setback. Gleison Bremer is a major doubt after limping off with a thigh injury against Galatasaray and could miss out if he fails to recover in time. Pierre Kalulu is suspended after his recent dismissal and is unavailable, while Emil Holm is also ruled out. In attack, Jonathan David remains a fitness question due to a groin issue and did not travel for the midweek clash. Long-term absentees Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik continue to be sidelined, further limiting options up front. There are no additional suspension issues beyond Kalulu’s ban. With Bremer potentially absent and Kalulu suspended, Luciano Spalletti is expected to reshuffle his defensive structure. The lack of natural centre-back depth could force a tactical adjustment, while attacking decisions may hinge on David’s fitness. Should the Canadian striker fail to recover, Juventus may deploy Weston McKennie in an advanced role or hand a rare start to Lois Openda. Juventus are projected to line up in a 3-4-2-1 formation. Michele Di Gregorio will start in goal. The back three should consist of Federico Gatti on the right side of defence, Lloyd Kelly operating centrally, and Teun Koopmeiners potentially dropping deeper into the left-sided centre-back role if required. In midfield, Andrea Cambiaso is expected to operate as the right wing-back, with Juan Cabal likely positioned on the left flank. Manuel Locatelli and Khephren Thuram should form the central midfield partnership, combining ball progression with defensive protection. Further forward, Francisco Conceicao and Kenan Yildiz are projected to play as dual attacking midfielders supporting the lone striker. Weston McKennie is the most likely candidate to lead the line if Jonathan David does not recover in time, offering physical presence and tactical flexibility in the final third. Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Gatti, Kelly, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Cabal; Conceicao, Yildiz; McKennie Como 1907 ............ Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Kempf, Valle; Perrone, Da Cunha; Vojvoda, Baturina, Rodriguez; Douvikas Key Stats Juventus are unbeaten at home in Serie A this season and have not lost a league match in Turin for nearly 12 months. The Bianconeri sit just one point outside the top four heading into this round. Como defeated Juventus 2–0 in their previous meeting earlier this season, their first league win over Juve since 1951. Como have collected 19 away points in Serie A this campaign and remain unbeaten on the road in the current calendar year. Juventus have conceded seven goals across their last two matches in all competitions. Player to Watch Kenan Yildiz Kenan Yildiz could be the decisive figure in Turin, particularly with Juventus navigating injuries and suspension issues in attack. The Turkish forward has developed into one of the Bianconeri’s most dynamic attacking outlets, combining intelligent movement with sharp ball-carrying ability. Operating between the lines, Yildiz is adept at drifting into half-spaces, linking midfield to attack and accelerating play in transition. His willingness to shoot from range, placing him among Serie A’s most active shot-takers, makes him a constant threat, especially against a Como defence that can be compact but vulnerable to quick combinations around the box. ............ Prediction Juventus 2-1 Como 1907 Juventus enter this fixture under pressure after a bruising European defeat, but their domestic home record remains a powerful foundation. The Allianz Stadium has been a fortress in Serie A, and with top-four qualification hanging in the balance, urgency should sharpen their performance. Como’s away form and tactical organisation suggest they will not be overwhelmed. Even without Nico Paz, they possess enough structure and discipline to frustrate for long stretches. However, Juventus’s need for redemption, combined with their superior depth and individual quality, should ultimately tilt the balance. Expect a competitive contest, but one where the hosts reassert control late on. . Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2026/02/20/juventus-vs-como-1907-preview-and-prediction/

Spalletti: I ‘can’t say’ how I handled three steps back, no doubt about Juventus future Luciano Spalletti insists that recent poor results have not made him reconsider his future at Juventus, but won’t disclose how he handled recent issues: ‘There are things you can’t say.’ Juventus prepare for Saturday’s Serie A match against Como following three defeats in the last four games across all competitions. The Bianconeri have conceded 13 goals in the process. ............ “There are things you can say in a press conference and others you can’t because they’re meant to be said to the players,” he said. “I’ve told the footballers. The famous three steps back were addressed in our meeting, and they could be the steps that take you before a run-up to gain more momentum. We’ll see if that turns out to be the case. “The three steps back are also the defeats we suffered. There are moments when we must run more, press more, and sometimes think more clearly, because we must not be dragged into the chaos and remain clear-headed without being emotionally involved. We had been good at hiding some uncertainties, and when you have uncertainties, the opponents take advantage.” ............ “Como are a strong team that knows how to apply their coach’s ideas and the kind of football he has in mind,” Spalletti said. “Fabregas is a strong coach with great qualities to pass on to his team. He himself was the example of a complete player, always available, and he wants to instil that in his side. For him, controlling the match is the simple foundation on which to build everything else, in terms of quality of play and results. I think he’s doing very well. I consider him one of the best we have. I went to watch him train when I was the national team coach, and that confirmed it to me.” ............ “Do you care about this situation? I don’t think that’s the solution that would change things,” Spalletti told the reporter. “I think it’s the opposite. Since it’s been said to me as well, it’s something I could do on my part, because I’m not looking for anything different. I’m looking for a football pitch, a ball, and players to coach, preferably intelligent ones, and I have that because my players are like that. If that were the necessity, it could be sorted out immediately.” . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-not-say-3-steps-back-juventus-future/

Spalletti: Juventus right to react to Kalulu ‘injustices’, McKennie ‘useful’, David returns Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti feels the club was right to ask for a one-game ban for Pierre Kalulu to be revoked, confirms he won’t drop Weston McKennie, and says Jonathan David will be available against Como despite not having trained with the rest of the team in recent days. Juventus prepare for a home Serie A match against Como on Saturday, following three defeats in their last four matches. ............ “Sometimes, you can see things, you can feel them, but they still hit, even if it’s unfair,” Spalletti said at a pre-match press conference. “You have to decide what to do with that fall. We have to make a correct and objective analysis, and we must use this pain like a rubber band that lifts you and propels you toward the next match.” Juventus have asked FIGC President Gabriele Gravina to revoke a one-game ban for Pierre Kalulu, who received two debatable yellow cards against Inter on Sunday. “It’s a necessary step because we are talking about two clear injustices that everyone was forced to acknowledge,” Spalletti said. “In my opinion, the club did the right thing. Bremer won’t be available for the match. David has been called up, but hasn’t trained and doesn’t have the confidence to play the full game. However, he’ll travel with us, and then we’ll decide whether to play him from the start or bring him on later.” ............ “Locatelli doesn’t seem to feel fatigue; he’s always very present, enthusiastic, and energetic, bringing a spirit to the team,” said the Bianconeri boss. “It would be tough to do without McKennie, especially in certain roles. The club had done well to bring in Holm, but he got injured. Kalulu is suspended, and Bremer is injured, so we are a bit short of options. We don’t really have other right-backs or players who can cover the entire right flank, and McKennie is very useful to us there.” ............ “Perhaps we made some wrong assessments, but the fundamental thing is that David links up with the team a bit better,” Spalletti said. “If we lose our unity, we lose effectiveness and strength. We all have the same responsibility, so we continue with Di Gregorio.” ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-juventus-right-kalulu-mckennie-david/

Blow for Juventus as Kalulu suspension upheld by FIGC Juventus have been dealt a defensive blow after the FIGC rejected their appeal to have Pierre Kalulu’s suspension overturned, ruling the Frenchman out of Saturday’s Serie A clash with Como. The Italian Football Federation, led by president Gabriele Gravina, dismissed Juventus’ request to have Kalulu reinstated following the controversy of the Derby d’Italia. The Turin club had argued the ban was unjust in light of what they considered a simulation by Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni, which led to the red card shown to their defender. ............ His absence is a notable one, the Frenchman has been ever-present this season, featuring in every competition including the Champions League, Serie A and Coppa Italia. Since August, Kalulu has made 36 appearances under both Igor Tudor and Luciano Spalletti, contributing two goals and five assists. ............ Juventus will look to their squad depth to cope without him, though history offers some encouragement. The last time Kalulu was absent, across the final two rounds of last season against Udinese and Venezia, serving a suspension, the Bianconeri won both games. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/blow-for-juventus-as-kalulu-suspension-figc/

Juventus ask Gravina to overturn Kalulu red card after Derby d’Italia controversy Juventus have reportedly lodged a request with FIGC President Gabriele Gravina in an attempt to get Pierre Kalulu’s red card rescinded after the controversial Derby d’Italia between the Old Lady and rivals Inter last weekend. Inter won the derby 3-2, but their victory was largely overshadowed by the controversial decision to send off Kalulu in the 42nd minute for a second bookable offence. ............ However, replays showed that Bastoni, who was on a yellow card himself at the time, had dived in an attempt to get his opponent sent off and was then seen passionately celebrating when Kalulu was given his marching orders. Refereeing chief Gianluca Rocchi has since admitted that a mistake was made, and Bastoni has since apologised for his role in the debacle. Despite the fact that Rocchi has admitted that the decision to send off Kalulu was incorrect, the Juventus defender has still picked up a one-match suspension, which rules him out of this Saturday’s Serie A match against Como. ............ Juventus followed protocol by appealing the Kalulu red card decision with the sporting court of appeal, which was, however, unsuccessful. Now, according to Friday’s reports, Juventus have appealed directly to FIGC President Gravina, hoping for a pardon from the man at the top of Italian football. The most recent time that Gravina sanctioned a pardon over a sending off decision was in 2023, when Romelu Lukaku was shown a second yellow card for his reaction to racist and discriminatory chants. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-ask-gravina-to-rescind-kalulu-red/

Barcelona makes Juventus man their main attacking target Dusan Vlahovic could be heading to Barcelona at the end of this season when he becomes a free agent. The Serbian striker has been sidelined with injury for some time, and it has been a long time since Juventus proposed a new contract. His wage demands reportedly exceeded the club’s budget, and they were unable to secure a sale during the last transfer window, although the Old Lady continues to utilise him while he remains under contract. ............ Juventus appear unconvinced that Vlahovic would accept a renewed offer, making it unlikely that he will remain in Turin beyond the current campaign. The striker seems focused on making the right decision for his career, weighing his options carefully before committing to any long-term plan. His situation highlights the difficulty clubs face when negotiating with high-profile players approaching the end of their deals, particularly when financial demands are involved. ............ Barcelona have now added Vlahovic to their list of potential forwards. The Catalan club may consider releasing Robert Lewandowski at the end of this season, and Vlahovic could serve as a suitable replacement for the Poland international. It remains unclear whether Barcelona can meet his financial demands, but his inclusion on their shortlist indicates a serious level of interest. The next few weeks will be crucial for the striker, as he must decide on his next destination if he does not sign a new deal with Juventus. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/barcelona-makes-juventus-man-their-main-attacking-target/

Senior Juventus players deliver dressing room speech as major concern emerges Juventus players had an ‘honest confrontation’ in the dressing room after a 5-2 loss to Galatasaray in the Champions League: ‘We have to wake up.’ Juventus are going through a tough moment, having won just one of the last five games across all competitions and conceding 13 goals in the last four matches. Coach Luciano Spalletti looked particularly irritated after Tuesday’s Champions League match against Galatasaray, which ended in a 5-2 away loss. ............ Juventus players are aware that if they go down the same path, they’ll struggle to finish in the top four. ............ There is still a lack of awareness at certain moments during the games, which is perhaps the major concern at the moment, but the players are not looking for excuses, and the team has never been so united, according to the report. ............ Juventus host Como at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday, and Spalletti is reportedly considering making a tactical change, switching to a three-man defence, also due to Gleison Bremer’s injury. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-players-dressing-room-speech-concern/

Juventus reach agreement to sign Roma man for free Zeki Celik is set to leave AS Roma, with Juventus reportedly emerging as his most likely destination after reaching an agreement with his entourage. The Turkish defender has been regarded as one of the finest performers in Serie A and has established himself as Roma’s first-choice right back. Celik has entered the final months of his current contract. Roma had been in discussions with him over a renewal worth 2 million euros per season. However, the defender is said to have requested at least 3 million euros net per season, a demand that led the club to suspend negotiations regarding an extension. ............ Roma’s decision to halt discussions appears to have opened the door for Juventus to intensify their pursuit. Celik’s consistent performances have ensured he remains highly rated within Italian football, and his contractual situation has made him an attractive opportunity on the market. ............ Juventus are keen to strengthen at right back, particularly after failing to replace Timothy Weah in the summer. Celik has been on their radar for some time due to his reliability and strong displays in Serie A. Juventus have been courting the defender and holding discussions with his entourage over a free transfer to Turin in the summer. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-reach-agreement-to-sign-roma-man-for-free/

Bisogna vincere la prima partita con questa maglia .....

Official: Juventus reveal new Adidas 2025-26 fourth kit – pictures Juventus have officially released their new fourth strip for the 2025-26 season, which features horizontal black and white stripes instead of the traditional vertical bars. ............ Juve announced on Friday that they have released a new fourth kit, which is a collaboration between the club, kit manufacturer Adidas and Studio Sgura, led by photographer Giampaolo Sgura. ............ The new shirt is inspired by a concept design from the 1996-97 season, which also featured vertical stripes instead of horizontal, but was never used in an official match. The club have confirmed that this new kit will be used in a competitive league fixture, specifically against Como on Saturday, February 21. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/official-juventus-reveal-2025-26-fourth-kit/

Paolo Di Canio gives a damning verdict on Cambiaso Andrea Cambiaso is widely regarded as one of the most important players in the Juventus squad and was even linked with a move to Manchester City during the summer. City have monitored him for some time and may have pursued a transfer more aggressively had they not prioritised strengthening other areas of their team. Juventus, however, have shown little interest in selling him, viewing the defender as a cornerstone around whom they can build for the future. ............ Despite his previously strong standing, Cambiaso’s recent performances have drawn scrutiny. A noticeable dip in form has prompted debate regarding his overall quality and whether he merits the high regard in which he has been held. Observers have questioned whether earlier praise may have been influenced by limited alternatives within Italian football rather than sustained elite displays. This reassessment has intensified discussion among pundits and supporters, with some suggesting that expectations surrounding Cambiaso may have been inflated. While he remains an integral part of the squad, the scrutiny reflects the demanding standards applied to players at a club of Juventus’ stature. ............ Paolo Di Canio has offered a critical evaluation of Cambiaso’s abilities. He said, “The problem is the narrative of our football. We don’t have much, there are no creative players, wingers, wingers, or attacking midfielders. I’m saying now that he’s had a few good games, a few goals, and a few assists. In our narrative , we mistake Cambiaso for a quality player, but that’s not true. Cambiaso is a player who falls into the category of hard workers.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/paolo-di-canio-gives-a-damning-verdict-on-cambiaso/

Spalletti ponders Juventus tactical switch after defensive collapse and Bremer’s injury Several sources in Italy claim that Luciano Spalletti will switch to a three-man defence in the next Serie A match against Como, following Gleison Bremer’s injury and a poor defensive record that has seen the Bianconeri concede 13 goals in the last four games. ............ The Bianconeri host Cesc Fabregas’ side at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday, and they’ll be forced to cope without Bremer, who suffered a minor muscle injury against Galatasaray on Tuesday. Juventus have won just one of their last five games, losing three and drawing once. Federico Gatti already replaced Bremer against Galatasaray and is expected to feature in the Bianconeri XI against Como as well. Teun Koopmeiners and Lloyd Kelly will complete the Old Lady’s backline against Como. ............ The only other centre-forward in the team, Lois Openda, started on the bench against Galatasaray and Weston McKennie was used as a false nine. According to reports, Openda and McKennie both have a chance to start in attack against Como, even if Kenan Yildiz is also an option for Spalletti. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-juventus-tactical-switch-collapse/

Antonio Cabrini believes Spalletti can help Juventus get back to winning With Juventus now struggling to secure consistent victories, uncertainty has emerged regarding Luciano Spalletti’s long-term future at the club. For much of his tenure, the team appeared on course to compete strongly for major honours, including a push for the Italian Cup and a credible challenge for the league title. However, recent weeks have brought disappointment, with elimination from the Coppa Italia and the prospect of a Champions League exit looming. Spalletti became Juventus’ third permanent manager since last year, highlighting the instability that has affected the club’s technical leadership. There is a growing sense that continuity is required if Juventus are to rebuild effectively and return to sustained success. Nevertheless, in modern football, managerial security is often determined by results, and Spalletti’s position may now depend on performances in the remaining fixtures of the season. ............ Although the club hierarchy continues to place trust in Spalletti, the downturn in results could influence their long-term assessment. A decision on his contract may ultimately be shaped by whether the team can stabilise and demonstrate clear progress before the campaign concludes. Should Juventus opt for change, they would begin the search for a coach capable of delivering renewed competitiveness and restoring confidence. ............ Antonio Cabrini has voiced his support for the current manager. He said, “I really like Spalletti as a coach: he could be the right name to relaunch Juve. If there’s planning and continuity, yes, we can aim to start a significant cycle. But it takes time to build something solid.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/antonio-cabrini-believes-spalletti-can-help-juventus-get-back-to-winning/

Bournemouth defender Senesi sends positive signals as Juventus offer revealed Bournemouth defender Senesi is open to joining Juventus as a free agent next summer and has sent ‘positive signals’ to the Bianconeri in recent weeks. ............ The Argentine’s contract with Bournemouth runs out this coming June, and the 28-year-old tops Juventus’ defender shortlist for 2026-27. The report claims that Juventus will offer Senesi a salary between €4m and €5m per season until 2029 or even 2030. ............ Back in January, other Italian sources reported Juventus’ interest in Senesi, suggesting that the Bianconeri would make their move to sign him on a free transfer at the end of the season. According to the report, Juventus will also work on Pierre Kalulu’s contract extension and listen to offers for Federico Gatti. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/bournemouth-senesi-positive-signals-juventus/

Thierry Henry says Italian teams have problems after Champions League losses The three Italian sides involved in the first leg of the Champions League play-off round all suffered defeats, prompting Thierry Henry to question the current state of Italian football. Juventus were beaten by Galatasaray and Atalanta by Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday, while Inter Milan were overcome by Bodo Glimt in Norway. Defending Serie A champions Napoli failed even to qualify for the play-off stage, adding to concerns about the strength of the league’s representatives in European competition. ............ Serie A is widely regarded as one of the top five leagues in world football, and Italian clubs have received praise in recent years. Inter Milan reached the Champions League final in 2023 and 2025, standing out in Europe under Simone Inzaghi. They currently sit at the top of the Serie A table, yet their defeat to Bodo Glimt has intensified scrutiny. ............ Henry expressed little surprise at the results. He said, “Are you surprised by these defeats? This is the current state of Italian football. Look at Bodo’s recent results, both home and away. Italian teams are having serious problems; are they so confident they can come back in the second leg? I wouldn’t take it for granted; it will be interesting to see how they try to come back in the second leg. When even the national team struggles to reach the World Cup three times, something is clear.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/thierry-henry-says-italian-teams-have-problems-after-champions-league-losses/

Juventus fear €32m transfer blow as winger suffers new injury Juventus’ hopes of cashing in on Nico Gonzalez have been dealt a significant blow following the winger’s latest injury. The Bianconeri bought the Argentine from their arch-rivals Fiorentina in the summer of 2024, splashing circa €35 million to secure his services. ............ The former Stuttgart star began his Spanish experience on a positive note, cementing himself as a regular starter in Diego Simeone’s lineup. However, he’s been recently dealing with physical problems. The winger has sustained a new injury that will keep him on the sidelines for at least three weeks. Juventus now fear that the obligation to buy the clause might not be triggered. The agreement between the two clubs states that the Colchoneros would have to buy Gonzalez if he plays 45 minutes or more in at least 60% of the club’s LaLiga fixtures, which effectively equals 21 appearances. ............ At this stage, the Argentine international has made 18 appearances in Spain’s top flight, but only 13 have reached the required threshold of game time. Therefore, Gonzalez still has to play 45 minutes in at least eight other LaLiga fixtures. But with only 14 rounds left before the end of the season, and the player currently out with an injury, this prospect may have become a long shot. ............ In any case, Gonzalez remains tied to Juventus with a contract valid until June 2029. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-missing-out-nico-gonzalez-injury-atletico-madrid/

Juventus is interested in a move for Real Madrid star Juventus have been linked with a move for Antonio Rudiger, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season. Real Madrid are reportedly not planning to extend the German defender’s contract beyond the current campaign, meaning he could depart once his deal expires. Rudiger is widely regarded as one of the finest defenders of his generation, and he is unlikely to be short of interest when he begins considering his next destination. Although Madrid continues to value his qualities, the club appear ready to move forward as part of a broader squad evolution. ............ Juventus are keen to strengthen their squad further and view experienced players as an important component of that process. While the Bianconeri are prepared to invest in key areas, they are also attentive to opportunities in the free agent market. Rudiger is among the players they would be eager to recruit if the opportunity arises. ............ However, Juventus may face stiff competition. Rudiger has also been linked with a potential move to Saudi Arabia, and if that interest materialises into concrete offers, it could complicate matters for the Bianconeri. Clubs in that market often possess greater financial resources, which may make it difficult for Juventus to compete in purely economic terms. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-is-interested-in-a-move-for-real-madrid-star/

Juventus identify Carnesecchi as desired Di Gregorio replacement, but Atalanta set hefty price Juventus are reportedly plotting a move for Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi, but they’ve already been warned about the price tag. The Bianconeri have been tracking the 25-year-old for several years, particularly since his two-and-a-half-year loan spell at Cremonese. But in the end, the Italian shot-stopper returned to his parent club in 2023 and established himself as a regular starter under Gian Piero Gasperini. For their part, Juventus bought Michele Di Gregorio from Monza in the summer of 2024 to replace their longtime stalwart Wojciech Szczesny. ............ Many felt the 28-year-old should have done better against Lazio winger Gustav Isaksen, and his reaction to Andrea Cambiaso’s own-goal in the Derby d’Italia was too slow. On Tuesday, he shipped in five goals against Galatasaray, although he wasn’t the main culprit on most occasions. The Serie A giants are considering signing a new goalkeeper who can be an upgrade on the Inter youth product, with Carnesecchi at the top of the list. ............ The source reveals that Atalanta would only allow the Rimini native to leave for a considerable offer. Their asking price is said to be between €30 and €40 million. The Orobici would be willing to consider a swap deal, but only if it concerns the addition of a profile they truly appreciate. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-marco-carnesecchi-michele-di-gregorio/

Chiellini enquired about Galatasaray attacker who impressed him: “He never falls” Juventus Director of Football Strategy Giorgio Chiellini was reportedly blown away by Galatasaray forward Boris Yilmaz on Tuesday. The two clubs met in the first leg of the Champions League play-off round, and the contest ended in a shocking result. ............ “I watched Baris with admiration. He plays excellent physical play and tackles. You push him, you pull him, and he never falls,” the legendary defender reportedly said. “Just like Kenan Yıldız, he’s very strong. Players of this quality aren’t easy to find. He’s a player perfectly suited to the Italian league. “If the opportunity arises, we, as Juventus, should make an offer for him. At the end of the season, if the conditions are favourable, we will absolutely have to sit down with the Galatasaray management.” While it remains unclear if these were actual quotes on Chiellini’s part, the source insists that the latter went to request information about the player. ............ This season, the Turkiye international has thus contributed with eight goals and 12 assists in 33 appearances across all competitions. Yilmaz essentially plays as a left winger, but he can also feature in any other role in the final third, including a centre-forward. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-director-giorgio-chiellini-baris-yilmaz/

Spalletti changes attitude towards Juventus players after heavy defeat vs. Galatasaray Tuesday’s heavy defeat against Galatasaray led to a change in Luciano Spalletti’s attitude towards his Juventus players. Safe to say Juventus coach Spalletti is highly disappointed following a 5-2 away Champions League defeat against Galatasaray on Tuesday. ............ Spalletti appeared unusually shaken and uncommunicative when the team resumed training at Continassa the day after the match. The Italian tactician had praised his players in recent weeks, even after a 3-2 loss against Inter last weekend. However, since Tuesday, his mood and demeanour have shifted dramatically, prompting the coach to call on his players to reflect deeply and take full responsibility for their roles. Spalletti argued that it’s “useless to talk if actions don’t follow”, and, according to the report, the Tuscan tactician is considering a tactical switch in the upcoming games, with a possible return to a three-man defence. ............ The coach’s priority, however, remains rediscovering the team’s personality and strong spirit. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-change-attitude-juventus-players/

Preview: Juventus vs Como - prediction, team news, lineups One place apart in the Serie A standings, top-four contenders Juventus and Como will clash in Turin on Saturday afternoon. Fallen giants Juve lead their ambitious visitors by four points, but they are on the verge of an early European exit after a disastrous midweek trip to Turkey. Match preview With several Italian clubs struggling in Europe - Juventus among them - there will probably be just four Champions League places on offer this season, due to a declining UEFA coefficient. Juve made their life much tougher in two respects on Tuesday, as a 5-2 hammering by Galatasaray also leaves them with a mountain to climb in their Champions League knockout-phase playoff. The first leg in Istanbul was going well until half time, with Teun Koopmeiners bagging a brace to put the Bianconeri 2-1 up, but they crumbled under intense pressure during a one-sided second half. Substitute Juan Cabal capped a calamitous performance when he was sent off, and Napoli loanee Noa Lang helped himself to two goals as Gala sprinted towards the final whistle. That brought more disappointment for Juventus, who had previously gone five games unbeaten in Europe since Luciano Spalletti's November arrival, keeping three consecutive clean sheets. Just days earlier, they came away empty-handed from yet another classic Derby d’Italia, suffering a late 3-2 defeat to old foes Inter Milan at San Siro. Despite fighting back after going down to 10 men - with Pierre Kalulu being controversially dismissed - the Bianconeri were still beaten, denting their pursuit of a place in Serie A’s final top four. Still, sitting just one point below fourth-placed Roma - who they visit next week - Juve are undefeated on home turf this season, last losing a league game in Turin nearly 12 months ago. ............ Juventus Serie A form: W L W W D L Juventus form (all competitions): D W L D L L Como Serie A form: L W W D L D Como form (all competitions): W W D W L D Team News After limping out of Tuesday’s defeat with a thigh injury, Juve’s defensive rock Bremer could be sidelined; meanwhile, Kalulu must serve a ban, and his deputy Emil Holm is also unavailable. Changes will therefore be required at the back, while it remains to be seen if Spalletti's first-choice striker Jonathan David can overcome a groin problem: like fellow forwards Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik - both long-term absentees - he missed the trip to Turkey. Should David fail to recover, either utility man Weston McKennie or little-used Lois Openda would start as the Bianconeri’s lone frontman, supported by Kenan Yildiz. Yildiz and Como star Paz both feature in Serie A’s top five for attempted shots, but the latter must miss Saturday’s game due to suspension. ............ Juventus possible starting lineup: Di Gregorio; Gatti, Kelly, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Cabal; Conceicao, Yildiz; McKennie Como possible starting lineup: Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Kempf, Valle; Perrone, Da Cunha; Vojvoda, Baturina, Rodriguez; Douvikas ............ We say: Juventus 2-2 Como Downcast by recent defeats - and missing several key men - Juventus may struggle to keep Como at bay, so a draw would be acceptable in the circumstances. Still unbeaten at home, Juve were initially solid under Spalletti, but they have just leaked 13 goals in four games; meanwhile, their visitors are starting to drop points. . Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/preview/juventus-vs-como-prediction-team-news-lineups_592290.html

Yildiz set for bench role in Juventus vs Como: Spalletti chooses a replacement Kenan Yildiz will reportedly be relegated to the bench when Juventus host Como at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday afternoon. When the two clubs met earlier in the season, this was described as a clash between two of the most exciting young stars in the Italian top flight, in reference to Yildiz and Nico Paz. The Spaniard certainly prevailed in the duel, scoring a goal and providing an assist as the Lariani went on to win 2-0 in front of their home supporters. Curiously, the return fixture in Turin could start with neither player on the pitch. Paz will be serving a one-match ban, while the Turkish star could start in the dugout. ............ Yildiz had an underwhelming outing in his home nation on Tuesday, failing to inspire a Juventus side that endured a shocking second-half collapse and ended up losing 2-5 to Galatasaray in the first leg of the Champions League playoff round. ............ With Yildiz getting a breather, Spalletti is expected to give Jeremie Boga his full Juventus debut. The Ivorian joined the Bianconeri on loan with an option to buy from OGC Nice earlier this month, and has been considered Yildiz’s designated understudy. The source believes that the 29-year-old has now regained his best condition after spending a couple of months on the sidelines. The winger was among a group of Nice players who were attacked by the club’s ultras, which prompted a period of inactivity. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/kenan-yildiz-juventus-como-jeremie-boga/

Two Juventus new signings destined to leave next summer Juventus will reportedly part ways with Lois Openda and Edon Zhegrova after a disappointing first season in Turin. The Bianconeri had a largely disappointing summer transfer window. Only four new players arrived at Continassa, and none of them has managed to produce the desired impact. ............ Juventus have already decided to part ways with Openda and Zhegrova at the end of the season. Both players signed for the club on last summer’s deadline day. The Belgian was a last-gasp alternative for Randal Kolo Muani. They swiftly turned to Openda, signing him on loan with an obligation to buy from RB Leipzig for €45 million. ............ The 26-year-old has only scored two goals since the start of the season. This midweek, he was the only striker in the squad that travelled to Istanbul to play Galatasaray in the first leg of the Champions League playoff round, and yet, Luciano Spalletti kept him on the bench, opting to play without a centre-forward. As for Zhegrova, he is considered a gem with elusive technical skills, but Juventus signed him while he was still recovering from a serious injury. The Kosovar has yet to return to his pre-injury levels. The former Lille winger is only being used as a second-half substitute, even when Francisco Conceicao has been unavailable. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/lois-openda-edon-zhegrova-leave-juventus-summer/

At least six Juventus players not part of Spalletti’s future plans At least six Juventus players are not part of Luciano Spalletti’s plans for next season, should the Tuscan tactician stay in Turin. Juventus coach Spalletti has already identified the players who won’t be part of his project in 2026-27 if he remains at the club beyond the summer. ............ Lois Openda has surely disappointed Spalletti in training, as the Belgian has played just 87 minutes across eight appearances in 2026. Dusan Vlahovic and Jonathan David were injured against Galatasaray on Tuesday, yet Spalletti picked Weston McKennie as a centre-forward, rather than Openda. Juan Cabal had a terrible impact in Istanbul the other night, and according to giornalaccio rosa, the Colombia international is struggling to adapt to Spalletti’s style of play, especially when it comes to building up from the back. ............ Federico Gatti also struggled in Istanbul after being introduced from the bench, and will serve as a backup again next season if he stays in Turin. Goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio has naturally attracted criticism as Juventus conceded 13 goals in their last four matches, while Vasilije Adzic and Edon Zhegrova have received reduced playing time in recent weeks. All these players are not expected to be part of Spalletti’s future plans if the Tuscan tactician remains in Turin next season. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/at-least-6-players-juventus-no-spalletti-plans/

Tacchinardi argues Allegri would avoided big defeat to Galatasaray Former Juventus midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi believes the team would have escaped with a better result against Galatasaray if they had Max Allegri in charge. The Bianconeri suffered an agonising defeat in the first leg of the Champions League playoffs. In the first half, they turned the result upside-down thanks to Teun Koopmeiners’ brace. However, they fell apart after the break, partially due to Gleison Bremer’s injury. ............ Since his arrival in Turin in early November, Luciano Spalletti has been widely praised for the noticeable improvement in terms of results and performances. However, Tacchinardi argues that a pragmatic, defensive-minded manager like Allegri would have been able to mitigate the damage once his team was reduced to 10 men. “In the second half, you had to park the bus and clear the ball out of your area,” said the 50-year-old in his interview. “Instead, you end up conceding five… With Allegri, it would’ve finished 3–2.” ............ “In Milan, Juve played, ran, actually played football. I’m convinced no one slept after that match. The next day was the worst, because you had to travel immediately to Turkiye. This team has 11 players who can help you — the others can’t.” Finally, the former Juventus star is hoping that Koopmeiners’ brace proves to be the beginning of a more prosperous chapter. “Credit to Koopmeiners, I hope it’s a rebirth. He scored twice yesterday, and the second was a beauty. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/tacchinardi-argues-former-juventus-manager-would-avoided-big-defeat-to-galatasaray/