Socrates

Boost for Igor Tudor as one key man returns from injury Juventus have been handed a timely boost ahead of their Club World Cup opener as Manuel Locatelli has returned to full team training. The midfielder, who has been one of the most consistent performers for the Bianconeri in recent seasons, looks set to play a key role in their campaign in the United States. Locatelli had suffered an injury during Juventus’ final Serie A game of the season, which forced him to miss out on Italy’s international fixtures at the start of June. ............ Locatelli has now fully recovered and took part in the team’s most recent full training session. This is a strong indication that he is available for selection in the upcoming clash with Al Ain. His return will be welcomed by Igor Tudor, who sees the midfielder as a core part of his plans for the tournament. ............ Juventus are aiming to make a statement in their first Club World Cup appearance, and they will be favourites against Al Ain. While the UAE side should not be underestimated, the return of key players like Locatelli significantly strengthens the Bianconeri’s chances of progressing from the group stage. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/boost-for-igor-tudor-as-one-key-man-returns-from-injury/

Kalulu insists Juventus will respect all Club World Cup opponents Juventus will begin their Club World Cup campaign with a group stage match against Al Ain, and the Bianconeri enter the tie as clear favourites. ............ The Club World Cup brings together top sides from across the continents, and while Juventus will back themselves to go deep into the tournament, they are wary of the risks of underestimating lesser-known opponents. Al Ain may lack the pedigree of Europe’s elite clubs, but their qualification for the tournament proves they are not to be dismissed lightly. ............ Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu has urged his teammates to show respect to every team they face. He made it clear that the Bianconeri are fully focused on the task ahead: “It’s very important for us and we’re proud to be there. It’s for clubs, but it’s still a World Cup. We see it as a continuation of the previous season. We have a clear idea of how we want to play, there’s great enthusiasm in the group, we’re physically well and we’re here to win as many games as possible. We’re watching the other games and we’ll have to respect all our opponents, starting with Al Ain.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/kalulu-insists-juventus-will-respect-all-club-world-cup-opponents/

New Juventus agreement with Adidas worth reported 408m Juventus continue to increase their revenue with new agreements, this time one worth a reported €408m with Adidas. It comes a day after the Bianconeri announced a ‘major new partnership’ with cryptocurrency firm WhiteBIT, becoming their new Official Sleeve Partner. The deal is done to extend Juve’s contract with Adidas from 2028 to 2038. This should be worth circa €43m per year, reaching a total of €408m over the period of the agreement. ............ The Turin giants already confirmed in May that their main shirt sponsors for the 2025-26 season would be Jeep and Visit Detroit. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/new-juventus-agreement-adidas-worth-408m/

Juventus is considering a move for a Brazilian full-back Juventus are considering a move for highly-rated Brazilian full-back Wesley França, with the club having monitored his progress closely over recent months. The 21-year-old currently plays for Flamengo and has become a prominent figure in their first team. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Juventus reportedly one of several European clubs watching him closely. Wesley’s development at Flamengo has also earned him opportunities with the Brazil national team. ............ Juventus are believed to be prioritising younger players with strong potential who can be moulded into long-term assets for the club. Wesley fits that profile well. His pace, defensive maturity and attacking instincts from the flanks have earned him praise in Brazil, and Juventus believe he has the potential to thrive in European football. The Bianconeri are now ready to step up their pursuit of the defender and could open formal negotiations with Flamengo in the coming weeks. ............ Signing younger talents like Wesley aligns with Juventus’ strategy of building a more dynamic and sustainable squad. The club have had success in the past bringing in South American players and developing them further in Serie A, and Wesley appears to be the latest name on that pathway. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-is-considering-a-move-for-a-brazilian-full-back/

Why John Elkann is travelling to America to spend time with Juventus John Elkann is preparing to travel to the United States to join Juventus during their participation in the Club World Cup, signalling a renewed personal involvement with the club. ............ Over the past few months, Elkann has made a number of key decisions that underline his re-engagement with the Bianconeri. One of the most notable changes came with the departure of sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, who left after just two seasons. The move formed part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at steering the club back to the summit of Italian football. Elkann’s upcoming trip to the United States is part of a larger strategy to strengthen ties with the squad and reassert his presence. He is expected to be with the team throughout the Club World Cup campaign, a gesture that may serve to motivate both players and staff. ............ Elkann’s increasing visibility is being interpreted as a clear signal of his commitment to rebuilding Juventus after a turbulent few seasons. By showing up at major competitions and involving himself more closely with the team, he is also looking to reinforce a winning culture. . For the players, having a figure like Elkann nearby during such an important tournament could prove inspiring. It sends a message that the leadership is not only invested financially, but also emotionally, in the success of the squad. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/why-john-elkann-is-travelling-to-america-to-spend-time-with-juventus/

River Plate in vantaggio 1-0

Igor Tudor insists Juventus is in America to win the Club World Cup Juventus have now arrived in the United States to begin preparations for their campaign in the FIFA Club World Cup, and manager Igor Tudor has made it clear that he intends to lead the team with a winning mentality. Despite not being seen as one of the leading contenders to lift the trophy, Juventus are taking the tournament seriously. ............ Juventus are currently considered a team in transition, and few would label them as clear favourites for the Club World Cup. Their recent performances in Europe have been below expectations, and several of the clubs participating in the tournament, such as Real Madrid and Manchester City, are viewed as stronger contenders. Even among their own supporters, there is a cautious tone surrounding expectations for this competition. ............ Tudor stated that his goal is not simply to take part in the tournament but to try to win it. He said: “Juve always has the same ambition to win. We want to do this with humility. We know that the best teams in the world are here, but we didn’t come here to participate, that’s clear. The trip was what it was, now we have to adapt to the weather, the time zone, quickly, because the game is already on Wednesday.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/igor-tudor-insists-juventus-is-in-america-to-win-the-club-world-cup/

Igor Tudor ha prolungato fino al 2027. Forza Mister!

Preview: Al-Ain vs Juventus - prediction, team news, lineups Fallen giants Juventus aim to regain past glories at this summer's Club World Cup, and they kick off their Group G campaign by meeting Al-Ain on Wednesday. Both sides will battle it out with Wydad AC and reigning champions Manchester City for a place in the knockout phase, starting with a midweek clash in Washington DC. Match preview Though they participated three times in the old Intercontinental Cup - winning the 1985 and 1996 editions against Argentinian opposition - Juventus are now making their inaugural appearance at FIFA's Club World Cup. The Italian giants qualified for the newly expanded competition as the eighth-best eligible team in UEFA's four-year rankings, joining compatriots and old foes Inter Milan in this summer's tournament. Previously Serie A champions for nine straight years, Juve have failed to claim top spot in Serie A since 2020, only scraping into fourth place last term following yet another season of turmoil. Two-time European champions, the Turin club also made an early exit from the Champions League, as a repeated failure to convert draws into wins continually cost them. Equalling a club record, Juventus drew 20 games across all competitions in the 2024-25 campaign, which initially promised so much under Thiago Motta, who was ultimately sacked before completing his first season. Having been hired to replace Motta in March, interim manager Igor Tudor - a former Juve defender and assistant coach - has since extended his contract, after a crisis-hit club board failed to secure the signature of either Antonio Conte or Gian Piero Gasperini. Tudor therefore leads the Bianconeri into this new-look Club World Cup, with Wednesday's opener taking place in the American capital. They then face Wydad in Philadelphia, before facing down group favourites Man City, so taking at least four points from their first two games is a must. ............ Team News Neither are yet fit enough for selection, but Juventus have been able to include two long-term absentees in their squad, as defensive rock Bremer and Polish striker Arkadiusz Milik have both partially trained with their teammates. Furthermore, captain and midfield fulcrum Manuel Locatelli - who scored the penalty that secured Juve's Champions League qualification last month - should recover from an ankle injury that caused his withdrawal from Italy duty; Daniele Rugani and Filip Kostic have both returned from season-long loans. While several places are up for grabs, Kenan Yildiz is set to feature prominently in Igor Tudor's preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. The Bianconeri averaged an extra point per game when Yildiz was in their starting lineup last term. The Turkish star's 15 goal involvements also made him the third-youngest player to hit that mark across Europe's top five leagues - only Lamine Yamal and Desire Doue managed more. Set to vie with Randal Kolo Muani for one place up front, Juve's top Serie A scorer was Dusan Vlahovic with a modest 10 goals, while Al-Ain's Togo striker Kodjo Laba netted 20 in the UAE Pro League, including eight headers. ............ Al-Ain possible starting lineup: Patricio; Autonne, Park, Cardoso; Traore, Nader, Palacios, Erik; Kaku; Laba, Rahimi Juventus possible starting lineup: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Kelly; Gonzalez, Thuram, Locatelli, Cambiaso; Conceicao, Yildiz; Kolo Muani We say: Al-Ain 0-1 Juventus For all their flaws, a Juventus side that kept 17 clean sheets last season should be able to keep Al-Ain's lively attack at arm's length and score at least once. It may not be pretty, but Juve can grind out an opening-round win that puts them on track for a top-two finish. . Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/al-ain/club-world-cup/preview/al-ain-vs-juventus-prediction-team-news-lineups_575635.html

Milan and Juventus consider Theo-Vlahovic swap deal Milan and Juventus are reportedly considering a swap deal involving Theo Hernandez and Dusan Vlahovic. Milan defender Theo Hernandez and Juventus striker Vlahovic could swap shirts in the summer transfer window as their clubs are reportedly considering a sensational swap deal in the 2025-26 summer transfer window. ............ Theo is not part of Milan’s plans, primarily because his contract expires in 2026, and negotiations for a new deal are stalled. Vlahovic’s Juventus contract also ends in June 2026, and the striker is equally far from reaching an agreement with the Old Lady. ............ Both Juventus and Milan value their players at €30m, but there is a salary issue, especially for Milan, as Vlahovic earns €12m per season at the Allianz Stadium, a fee the Rossoneri are unlikely to match. Theo, on the other hand, has requested a €6m-a-year contract at Milan, and Juventus could meet his demands. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/milan-juventus-consider-theo-vlahovic-swap/

Elia Caprile emerges as favourite to replace Perin at Juventus Juventus are already searching the market for Mattia Perin’s replacement, setting their sights on Elia Caprile. As reported earlier today, Perin appears to be on his way out of the club, as he plans to find himself a new club that guarantees him substantial playing time. The 32-year-old has at least three suitors in Milan, Bologna and Como. ............ Caprile has surfaced as the most plausible candidate for the role. The 23-year-old is a Verona native who started his career at Chievo but was then poached by Leeds United. ............ However, the eventual Scudetto winners were only playing on one front amidst the lack of European football, which limited the young goalkeeper’s opportunities. Hence, he joined Cagliari in January on loan with an option to buy at the end of the season. ............ The Isolani are going to activate this clause in the coming days and buy Caprile for €8 million after helping them avoid relegation. Nevertheless, the Sardinians don’t necessarily intend to keep the goalkeeper, as they would be happy to register a windfall, especially if they were to receive offers in the region of €15 million. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/elia-caprile-emerges-as-favourite-to-replace-perin-at-juventus/

La partita Juventus-Al Ain verrá arbitrata dall'arbitro Tori Penso (U.S.A.) Cristiano Ronaldo ha un precedente negativo con lei durante la finale della coppa dell'Arabia Saudita. CR7 fu molto contrariato per le decisioni prese dall'arbitro che lo ammoní pure.

Penso che la seconda del nostro girone giochi con la vincente del gruppo H, quindi in teoria si giocherá o Real-City o Real-Juve.

Juventus first Club world cup training session in the USA cancelled Juventus’ preparations for the FIFA Club World Cup have encountered a minor disruption, as their first scheduled training session in the United States was cancelled due to a delay following their arrival. The Italian giants, who are one of two clubs representing Serie A in the expanded competition, are currently based in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Having made a stop in Washington before reaching their training base, the Bianconeri were set to hold a light session designed to help players stretch and recover from the long journey. ............ The scheduled training session was cancelled upon arrival, with the team instead set to begin full preparations this morning local time, which corresponds to the afternoon in Italy. The session was expected to be light in nature, focusing on loosening up muscles after the lengthy flight rather than any intensive tactical work. ............ Juventus’ first match in the tournament will see them face Al Ain in the early hours of 19 June. The UAE-based side will be eager to test themselves against top European opposition, and the fixture represents a meaningful opportunity for both clubs. While Al Ain are expected to put up a competitive fight, Juventus will approach the game as favourites and are confident of securing a positive result. ............ . The cancellation of the first session is unlikely to impact the squad’s overall readiness, and with several days remaining before their opening fixture, there is ample time to make the necessary adjustments and settle into full tournament mode. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-first-club-world-cup-training-session-in-the-usa-cancelled/

How much will Juventus earn from competing at the Club World Cup Juventus are among the European clubs currently taking part in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which officially got underway today in the United States. The Bianconeri join Inter Milan as the two Italian representatives, and both clubs will be looking to leave a strong impression on and off the pitch during their stay in North America. ............ Although there is great value in the global exposure the event offers, particularly in a key commercial market like the United States, Juventus are likely to be even more focused on the financial potential the competition represents. ............ Juventus have already earned around 20 million euros by simply qualifying for the competition. From there, the financial rewards continue to increase. Each group stage victory will bring in 1.9 million euros, with 900 thousand euros awarded for a draw. Progressing through each knockout round comes with significant financial incentives, with 7 million euros awarded for reaching the round of sixteen and an additional 12.2 million euros guaranteed for a place in the quarterfinals. ............ If Juventus advance to the semifinal, they will receive 19.5 million euros, with 27.9 million euros set aside for the finalists. The eventual champions are set to collect a further 37.2 million euros, underlining the substantial sums on offer at this tournament. With those figures in mind, Juventus will approach this competition with a clear understanding of the financial stakes involved. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/how-much-will-juventus-earn-from-competing-at-the-club-world-cup/

Di Marzio reveals the midfielder Juventus are more likely to sign than Tonali & Frattesi Juventus reportedly have a bigger chance to land Atalanta midfielder Ederson compared to Italy stars, Sandro Tonali and Davide Frattesi. ............ But according to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the management is also keen to add a quality midfielder to Igor Tudor’s ranks. ............ Khephren Thuram was the only new addition who proved his worth in his first season in Turin. On the other hand, Teun Koopmeiners and Douglas Luiz failed to inspire. While the Dutchman should be given another chance, the Brazilian is heavily tipped to return to the Premier League. ............ In recent months, Juventus had identified Tonali as the ultimate dream. However, prising him away from Newcastle United remains a daunting task, as the Premier League side has no reason to part ways with the former Milan star, especially after qualifying for the Champions League. Juventus have also been monitoring Frattesi who hasn’t been able to lock down a starting role at Inter over the past two seasons. ............ Therefore, Di Marzio believes that signing Ederson could be the most plausible option for Juventus, even though Atalanta are requesting large figures (starting from €60 million), while Manchester City and Manchester United have been mentioned as potential suitors. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/di-marzio-juventus-ederson-tonali-frattesi/

Juventus set their price for winger wanted at Marseille Juventus are reportedly open to selling Nicolas Gonzalez less than a year following his arrival, as Olympique Marseille emerges as a possible destination. ............ Juventus would be willing to part ways with Gonzalez if they were to receive an offer in the region of €25 million. While this might not be a substantial figure in today’s market, it should be enough to avoid registering a capital loss, and would also allow the club to reinvest it in a new addition to the squad. ............ The same source reveals interest from Marseille who remain keen to bolster Roberto De Zerbi’s ranks with renowned talents. The Ligue 1 giants secured their spot in the Champions League after finishing second in the table behind European champions, Paris Saint-Germain. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-set-their-price-nico-gonzalez-marseille-interest/

Igor Tudor identifies his six ‘untouchable’ Juventus stars Juventus manager Igor Tudor is hellbent on keeping six Juventus players whom he considers the foundation of his team. ............ Nevertheless, we can expect Tudor and management to introduce a few changes to the squad this summer to provide the coach with a group more suited to his ideas. ............ Tudor identified six stars as absolutely ‘untouchable’ as he would like to build his team around them. Unsurprisingly, the first name on the list is Kenan Yildiz who immediately found his feet under the tutelage of Tudor after struggling for form during Motta’s ill-fated tenure. In the middle of the park, the 46-year-old is adamant about keeping Manuel Locatelli and Khephren Thuram who formed a splendid partnership in the double pivot. Moreover, Tudor wants to keep Andrea Cambiaso at all costs, even though the Italian international has several suitors on the market. ............ Finally, the recently confirmed manager is hellbent on keeping Federico Gatti and Gleison Bremer. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/igor-tudor-identifies-his-six-untouchable-juventus-stars/

Official: Tudor extends Juventus contract Juventus confirm Igor Tudor has signed a contract extension until June 2027, with an option for a further campaign. ............ “Passion. Charisma. Juventus spirit. Words that perfectly capture what Igor Tudor has brought to Juventus since taking over the Men’s First Team in late March – and what he will continue to represent in the years ahead,” Juventus said. “It’s now official: Tudor has renewed his contract with Juventus. The Croatian coach will lead the Men’s First Team until 30 June, 2027, with an option to extend by another year until 30 June, 2028. His next challenge begins this summer, as the team head to the United States for their first competitive fixture at the FIFA Club World Cup. ............ “A few months ago, Tudor reconnected with the club. Now, new chapters are waiting to be written together. “Congratulations, Coach Tudor!” ............ Tudor managed to secure qualification for the Champions League, and therefore, his contract was automatically extended to 2026. New General Manager Damien Comolli spoke very highly of the ex-defender during a press conference earlier this week, confirming that the Croat would remain in charge of the entirety of the 2025-26 season. A few days later, Tudor agreed to extend his Juventus contract by one more season. Tudor won five games, drew three and lost one during his time at the club. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/official-tudor-extends-juventus-contract-2027/

Igor Tudor explains what makes Yildiz a rare breed Kenan Yildiz is widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in world football today, and Juventus can count themselves fortunate to have him within their ranks. The young attacker has attracted attention from top clubs across the globe, but Juventus are determined to keep hold of him and is working diligently to ensure he remains a central part of their future plans. ............ The closing stages of the recent season offered a clear view of Yildiz’s talent. He emerged as arguably the most productive player in the Juventus squad during that period, delivering key contributions and displaying a level of maturity beyond his years. His performances have reinforced the belief that he will be a leading figure for the club as they prepare for their next major challenge, the Club World Cup. Manager Igor Tudor has placed considerable trust in the young forward, who has flourished under his leadership. Yildiz has been deployed in a variety of attacking roles, appearing to enjoy a more liberated position since Tudor’s arrival. ............ As the team gears up to compete in the United States in the coming weeks, Tudor offered high praise for Yildiz’s contribution and mindset. Speaking about the player, he said, “There are players who know how to score goals and assist, those who stand out the most. But a mix of number 9 and 10 like him, who sees the goal but makes you play well, is rare. He has a gift, the mentality, being in every training session and exercise, without fear”. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/igor-tudor-explains-what-makes-yildiz-a-rare-breed/

Juventus hopes Vlahovic shines in America as they are keen to offload him Dusan Vlahovic’s contract situation and financial demands continue to present Juventus with a significant challenge. While the Serbian striker remains an important member of the squad, the club is finding it increasingly difficult to meet the terms of his current deal. However, success at the upcoming Club World Cup could provide a timely solution to this ongoing issue. ............ Juventus have offered Vlahovic a revised deal with reduced wages to ease the financial pressure. However, the player and his representatives have yet to accept the new terms, and there are indications that he may be willing to see out his contract and leave on a free transfer next summer. Such a scenario would be highly unfavourable for the club, which would lose a valuable asset without any return. ............ Juventus are hoping that Vlahovic delivers a strong performance at the Club World Cup, which could attract firm offers for his signature in the current transfer window. The tournament offers the perfect platform for him to showcase his abilities to an international audience, potentially accelerating negotiations with interested clubs. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-hopes-vlahovic-shines-in-america-as-they-are-keen-to-offload-him/

Emanuel Emegha é un attaccante di cui si parla un gran bene in Olanda. Potrebbe essere selezionato dal c.t. degli arancioni per i mondiali dell'anno prossimo. 22 anni (nato il 3 febbraio come me ma una quarantina di anni dopo) di origine nigeriana, 195 cm, 82 kg. Gioca attualmente nello Strasburgo in Francia. Comolli dovrebbe conoscerlo.

Capello explains why Juventus should sign Man Utd striker instead of Gyokeres Legendary Italian manager Fabio Capello identifies Joshua Zirkzee as the ideal profile to replace Dusan Vlahovic at Juventus. Many believe that the Serbian’s time in Turin is coming to an end as the two parties couldn’t reach an agreement over a contract renewal. Therefore, the Bianconeri will be desperate to offload the misfiring striker whose current deal will expire in 12 months. ............ The Serie A giants are seemingly keen to find a new agreement with Paris Saint-Germain to keep Randal Kolo Muani, but the Frenchman alone won’t be enough. ............ Over the past few weeks, several centre-forwards have landed on the club’s shortlist, including Mateo Retegui and Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish bomber is a very interesting profile, as he comes from an astonishing campaign with Sporting CP, scoring 54 goals from 52 appearances. ............ The former Juventus, Real Madrid and England manager believes that the Bianconeri would be better off chasing Zirkzee. “I’d go straight to Joshua Zirkzee, who had shown me some very classy plays in Serie A,” wrote Capello in his latest column. “Zirkzee would also cost less than the Gyokeres who is being linked to Juve. The Swede may have been a goal machine at Sporting, but he’s 27 and has never succeeded in a top-level league like ours.” Zirkzee was tipped to reunite with Thiago Motta at Juventus last summer and then again in January, but a deal never materialised. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/capello-explains-why-juventus-should-sign-zirkzee-instead-of-gyokeres/

FIFA Club World Cup Group G Preview & Predictions: Meet Juventus Rivals It was supposed to be a season of resurgence for Juventus after substantial squad investments last summer and Thiago Motta’s appointment. However, the record-time Italian champions had to settle for another mediocre campaign. Motta didn’t even last long enough to take credit for another top-four finish in Serie A. Igor Tudor took his place in the dugout in late March and finished what he started, helping Juventus secure Champions League qualification. ............ Progression from a competitive-looking Group G is anything but a foregone conclusion for Juventus. Indeed, they share the stage with Manchester City, Al-Ain, and Wydad and will kick things off on June 19 against the AFC powerhouse. ............ Juventus League: Serie A Head coach: Igor Tudor Like Group E favorites and arch-rivals Inter, Juventus have a point to prove in the United States. After all, this is the only international title they have never won. But there’s more than just prestige and another piece of silverware. Indeed, this could be a chance for the Turin giants to embark on a new winning cycle after years of suffering. ............ Several players within the squad are also facing a make-or-break moment, including exit-linked Dusan Vlahovic. The same goes for Randal Kolo Muani and Francisco Conceicao, as they both aim to earn permanent contracts at the Allianz Stadium. Star Player: Kenan Yildiz Though Vlahovic was Juventus’ best goalscorer in the season just gone, Kenan Yildiz was often the team’s driving force in attack. Unfortunately, the numbers weren’t there. The 20-year-old racked up just nine goals in 48 appearances. Therefore, this could be his time to shine. Potential starting line-up (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Bremer, Kalulu, Savona; Cambiaso, Thuram, Locatelli, Nico Gonzalez; Conceicao, Yildiz; Kolo Muani. Manchester City League: Premier League Head coach: Pep Guardiola While trophyless seasons have become Juventus’ harsh reality in recent years, Manchester City experienced a rare taste of the same last term. After four consecutive Premier League triumphs, they failed to lift silverware for the first time since Pep Guardiola’s debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium. An underwhelming league campaign, a premature Champions League elimination, and an FA Cup heartbreak prompted the club’s decisive reaction in the transfer market. Indeed, the Citizens have splashed out €137 million on summer reinforcements. Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, and Tijjani Reijnders have signed for the former English champions. ............ Star player: Erling Haaland Despite all incoming deals in the past six months, Erling Haaland remains the most significant component in Guardiola’s jigsaw. The Norwegian goal machine had a quiet season by his high standards, finishing behind Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak in the Premier League scoring charts. That could only serve as an added motive for him to explode in the US. Potential starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Ederson; Ait-Nouri, Gvardiol, Dias, Akanji; Kovacic, Reijnders; Cherki, Marmoush, Doku; Haaland. Al-Ain League: UAE Pro League (United Arab Emirates) Head Coach: Vladimir Ivic With 14 top-flight titles and 38 trophies overall, Al-Ain are the most successful club in the United Arab Emirates. However, their domination stretches beyond the UAE borders. Vladimir Ivic’s men defied the emergence of wealthy Saudi Pro League clubs to lift the AFC Champions League title in 2024. Star player: Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba Long-serving Al-Ain stalwart Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba may be unknown to wider international audiences, but his impact in Asian football is undeniable. The Togolese striker has been a nightmare for opposition defenses since joining the club in 2019 and even finished last season as the Pro League top scorer. Potential starting line-up (4-3-3): Eisa; Erik, Kouadio, Cardoso, Traore; Nader, Park, Palacios; Kaku, Rahimi, Laba. Wydad AC League: Botola Head coach: Mohamed Amine Benhachem One of Africa’s most decorated clubs, Wydad AC earned their spot at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup as Morocco’s representative, thanks to the 2022 CAF Champions League triumph. With three CAF Champions League titles and over 20 domestic trophies, the Casablanca-based giants are no strangers to elite competition. ............ Star player: Samuel Obeng Samuel Obeng will make his Wydad debut at this tournament after swapping Casa Pia for Stade Mohamed V this summer. As a rare foreigner in the squad, expectations will be high for the 28-year-old, who spent his entire career in the Iberian Peninsula before crossing the Mediterranean. Potential starting line-up (4-4-2): El Motie; Moufid, Marmouk, Nassik, Harkass; Malsa, Sakhi, Zemraoui, Arthur; Rayhi, Obeng. Prediction Group winner: Manchester City Second-place finisher: Juventus ............ Meanwhile, Juventus may not be their best version, but their quality and experience still make them strong contenders for the knockout stage. Regardless of their recent struggles, the Bianconeri should have just enough to outpace Al-Ain and Wydad in the race for second place. . Read more -> https://cultofcalcio.com/fifa-club-world-cup-group-g-preview-predictions-meet-juventus-rivals/