Socrates

Fabio Capello discusses Koopmeiners’ new role against Cremonese One of the biggest failures of Juventus’ last two managers has been their inability to get the best out of Teun Koopmeiners, who joined the Bianconeri in the summer of 2024. He arrived as a European champion and had been one of the standout players at Atalanta, known for his tactical intelligence and composure on the ball. Juventus viewed him as one of their most promising signings, yet he has struggled to find consistency and make the impact that was expected of him. ............ Luciano Spalletti has attempted to find the most suitable position for Koopmeiners, experimenting with his deployment on the left in a recent match against Cremonese. The intention is to identify a role that allows him to utilise his technical skills and vision effectively while contributing to the team’s overall shape. It remains uncertain whether this position will be permanent, but Spalletti’s flexibility demonstrates the ongoing effort to extract the best from a player with undeniable qualities. Finding a system that complements his natural attributes is essential for him to regain form and confidence. ............ Fabio Capello has also offered his view on Koopmeiners’ role, particularly the suggestion of using him as a defender. He said: “The idea of Koopmeiners as a centre back? It seems like an idea, not so much as a defender because he’s not Costacurta, so to speak, but he knows how to position himself well, but when he has the ball and moves forward, he can do something more and can be a surprise for opponents too. Someone who knows what to do with the ball at his feet, not like many defenders. In that role, he’s so-so…” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/fabio-capello-discusses-koopmeiners-new-role-against-cremonese/

Champions League: Juventus vs. Sporting CP – probable line-ups Kenan Yildiz is expected to partner with Dusan Vlahovic in the Juventus attack for a Champions League game against Sporting CP. It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) at the Allianz Stadium in Turin. The Bianconeri haven’t yet won a game in the Champions League this season, but new coach Luciano Spalletti makes his debut in Europe’s elite competition with the Old Lady in his first home game. ............ Italian media claim that Teun Koopmeiners will once again start in a three-man defence. Daniele Rugani is favourite over Federico Gatti at the back. Juventus have collected two points in three Champions League matches so far this season. ............ Juventus vs. Sporting CP – probable line-ups Juventus (3-5-2): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Rugani, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Kostic; McKennie, Yildiz; Vlahovic. Sporting CP (4-2-3-1): Rui Silva; Vagiannidis, Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Arauji; Joao Simoes, Hjulmand; Geny Catamo, Trincao, Goncalves; Ioannidis. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-v-sporting-probable-line-ups-watch-tv/

Champions League Preview: Juventus vs Sporting CP – Team News, Line-ups & Prediction It’s been a busy week for the Turin giants as they parted ways with underperforming boss Igor Tudor following a dreadful eight-game winless run in all competitions. Interim boss Massimo Brambilla inspired Juventus to a morale-boosting 3-1 home win over Serie A strugglers Udinese last week. Then, Spalletti enjoyed a dream touchline debut as Juventus saw off newcomers Cremonese 2-1 on the road, building a head of steam ahead of Sporting’s visit. Failure is not an option for the former Scudetto winner, as the record-time Italian champions sit outside the playoff spots before the kick-off. Indeed, the Bianconeri have only won two points in the opening three league-phase rounds (D2, L1), most recently slumping to a narrow 1-0 defeat at Real Madrid. In stark contrast, Sporting have fared reasonably well, sandwiching a 2-1 away loss to Juventus’ bitter rivals Napoli with a pair of home victories. ............ Match Preview Juventus This clash has all the makings of a ‘make or break’ contest for Juventus. With only two points to their name, Spalletti’s men desperately need a win here to reignite their pursuit of knockout qualification. With that in mind, this upcoming encounter against Sporting seems perfectly timed. For perspective, Juventus have gone unbeaten in all four historic meetings with the Portuguese powerhouse (W2, D2). It’s also worth noting that both wins arrived in Turin, albeit by narrow single-goal margins, highlighting just how closely contested these encounters have been. Maintaining their flawless home record against Sporting feels imperative, as Juventus bid to arrest a woeful four-game winless run in the Champions League (D2, L2). Ominously, that’s their worst streak at Europe’s top table since 2013. On the bright side, they’ve been formidable at the Allianz Stadium this term. Despite recent managerial shifts, Allianz remains a fortress, with Juventus avoiding defeat in their last ten home outings across all competitions (W7, D3), including a nerve-wracking 4-4 draw against Borussia Dortmund in their most recent Champions League game in Turin. Sporting CP ............ Team News Long-term absentees Juan Cabal, Gleison Bremer, and Arkadiusz Milik remain on the sidelines. Yet, Juventus can find comfort in Kenan Yildiz’s return from injury after missing out on the Cremonese game. Moreover, Lloyd Kelly could also be at Spalletti’s disposal after overcoming a minor muscle issue. ............ Juventus vs Sporting CP Potential Starting Lineups Juventus (3-5-2): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Rugani, Gatti; Cambiaso, Thuram, Locatelli, Koopmeiners, Kostic; Openda, Vlahovic. Sporting CP (4-2-3-1): Silva; Vagiannidis, Diomande, Inacio, Araujo; Hjulmand, Morita; Quenda, Trincao, Goncalves; Suarez. Juventus vs Sporting CP Prediction With Spalletti on the bench, Juventus could turn into a different beast, and this clash might mark a turning point in their dreadful Champions League campaign. Given Sporting’s embarrassing record in Italy and a well-documented travel sickness, we back the Bianconeri to get off the mark in Europe. Prediction: Juventus to Win . Read more -> https://cultofcalcio.com/champions-league-preview-juventus-vs-sporting-cp-team-news-line-ups-prediction/

Massimo Pavan insists Juventus needs a good night against Sporting Juventus are set to face Sporting Club in the Champions League tonight in what promises to be a crucial fixture for both sides. Each team will be eager to secure victory and strengthen its position in the competition. Juventus, under new manager Luciano Spalletti, approach the match with renewed energy and optimism following a recent upturn in form. ............ Sporting Club, the reigning champions of Portugal’s top division, represent a formidable opponent. Their technical ability, tactical organisation and experience in European competitions make them a dangerous side. Juventus, aware of this, will need to display discipline, control and creativity to overcome the challenge. The match provides Spalletti with another opportunity to assess how well his players are adapting to his methods and tactical expectations. As an experienced coach with a deep understanding of European football, Spalletti knows the magnitude of the task ahead. His focus will be on maintaining Juventus’s recent momentum while identifying the individuals responding most effectively to his approach. The game is also a chance for the Bianconeri to demonstrate that their recent revival is more than temporary and that they remain capable of competing with the continent’s elite. ............ Commenting on the significance of the upcoming clash, Massimo Pavan stated: “The Bianconeri are immediately faced with an important, if not decisive, match. The missteps in previous matches make a victory a must. However, judging by Sporting Lisbon’s performance against Napoli, it won’t be easy at all.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/massimo-pavan-insists-juventus-needs-a-good-night-against-sporting/

Buffon: ‘Spalletti the best choice for Juventus – Allegri had more trust because of his record’ Gianluigi Buffon believes Juventus have made “the best possible choice” by appointing Luciano Spalletti but admits he regrets not seeing him take charge from the start of the season. ............ “They started well, but maybe not fully convinced by the project,” Buffon said. “Looking at how and when Tudor was sacked, it suggests there wasn’t complete belief from the beginning. Now they’ve made the best possible fix: Spalletti can guarantee the results the fans and club expect. The only pity is that I’d have liked to see him from the start, with pre-season and player choices, Juve could’ve been competitive until the end.” ............ Buffon also touched on Igor Tudor’s dismissal: “It seemed there were problems with empathy between him and the directors. You could sense it from his last interviews.” On Juventus’ broader situation, he added: “After ten years of success, it’s natural to go through difficulties. They need the right people in management, on the bench and on the pitch. We experienced something similar between 2009 and 2011.” On Allegri, who the former Italy international argued received more backing from the Juventus leadership than any of his successors, Buffon noted: “He had more trust because of his past.” ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/buffon-spalletti-juventus-allegri-decision/

Juventus midfielder earns comparison with Calafiori as Spalletti sends message Teun Koopmeiners is expected to start his second consecutive game in central defence, and his contribution to the build-up has made him earn a comparison with Italy international Riccardo Calafiori. New Juventus coach Spalletti surprisingly started Koopmeiners as a left centre-back in a three-man defence in a 2-1 win over Cremonese on Saturday and is expected to offer more of the same this evening when the Old Lady hosts Sporting CP in the Champions League. ............ Koopmeiners’ heatmap from the game against Cremonese shows that the Dutch midfielder touched the ball more often in central midfield and on the left flank than he did inside the Bianconeri’s box. The Dutchman’s contribution to the build-up is to compare his position and duties to those of Calafiori, who played in the same role with the Italy national team under Spalletti. ............ ‘Koop playing as a defender like Calafiori is an invitation to play with the heads held high, with the desire to dominate proceedings’. ‘The Dutchman has dropped deep, but is practically an added midfielder in the build-up.’ ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/koopmeiners-calafiori-juventus-spalletti/

Di Gregorio gives insight into the change of mood in the Juve dressing room Michele di Gregorio has offered insight into the improving atmosphere within the Juventus dressing room following their recent run of back-to-back victories. The Bianconeri are gradually recovering from an extended period of poor form, which included an eight-game winless streak and ultimately resulted in the dismissal of Igor Tudor. Under new manager Luciano Spalletti, optimism appears to be returning, with the team beginning to show signs of renewed determination and unity. ............ Di Gregorio spoke about the positive change in mood among the players and the importance of maintaining focus as they look to build upon recent results. He said: “The dressing room feels better after two wins. Winning makes you feel better, but we know we can’t let our focus drop or we risk going back to square one. We’re focused on tomorrow, and I think we need to continue on this path. We’ve done well, we’ve scored points.” His comments underline the growing sense of belief within the squad, balanced by an understanding that consistency will be crucial if Juventus are to continue climbing the table. The improvement in morale is clear, yet Di Gregorio’s words also reflect a recognition that complacency could quickly undo their progress. ............ Spalletti’s presence appears to have revitalised the players, encouraging greater cohesion and tactical discipline. The team’s back-to-back wins have helped to restore confidence, and the focus now is on sustaining that level of performance across all competitions. Juventus fans will be hopeful that this resurgence signals the start of a more stable and successful period under their new manager. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/di-gregorio-gives-insight-into-the-change-of-mood-in-the-juve-dressing-room/

David could leave Juventus in January with Tottenham and Chelsea interested Reports in Italy claim that Canada international Jonathan David could leave Juventus in January, even if Luciano Spalletti will try to revive the ex-Lille star before the winter transfer window begins. ............ The Italian newspapers claim that the 25-year-old will consider his options in the winter transfer window if he doesn’t get more playing time in the coming months. David made a substitute appearance in Luciano Spalletti’s debut against Cremonese on Saturday and is expected to go on the bench again this evening in a Champions League match against Sporting CP. ............ Spalletti will try to revive the Canadian, but Tottenham and Chelsea are following the ex-Lille forward. The London-based clubs are also interested in his Juventus teammate Dusan Vlahovic. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/david-juventus-exit-january-tottenham-chelsea/

Ravezzani promises bombshells in Calciopoli documentary: “Inside job at Juventus” TeleLombardia director Fabio Ravezzani previews a documentary that sheds the light on some of the aspects of the Calciopoli scandal that demoted Juventus to Serie B in 2006. The Bianconeri were accused of establishing illegal bonds with the referees at the time, and were relegated to the second division following a brief summer trial. They were also stripped of their two previous Serie A titles, while the club’s general director, Luciano Moggi, was banned for life. ............ While Juventus suffered an absolute catastrophe, other clubs like Milan and Lazio were only slapped with a point deduction, despite being brought to trial. Moreover, Inter emerged as the ultimate beneficiary, as they were awarded a title they now won on the pitch, while the absence of Juventus allowed them to kickstart a winning dynasty. ............ Ravezzani has released a new documentary that unveiled interesting new evidence, proving that Juventus were the victim of an internal conspiracy, with some people at the club taking advantage of Umberto Agnelli’s death to cause havoc. “There are sensational wiretaps that no one has ever heard from people involved who had previously refused to discuss the details,” said the journalist in his interview. “This includes former minister Melandri, prosecutor Narducci, referees, players, presidents, and Meani himself, who was Juventus’s greatest adversary at the time on the Moggi front. “Plus, leading Italian and international journalists are reconstructing the story with new insights and perspectives,” added Ravezzani. ............ “Certainly, in light of these ten episodes, a completely different sporting truth emerges than what has been told so far. Juventus was the victim of a sensational inside job. “Despite violations not unlike those of other clubs, Umberto Agnelli’s death (in 2004) allowed for a settling of scores that cost the club relegation due to a lack of will to defend itself, unlike what happened to other clubs. “The criminal investigation was shortsighted because it was primarily interested in targeting and prosecuting the most important club, and this often happens in investigations. “The compromising wiretaps were forwarded to the sports judiciary only within Juventus. But there was still room for a defence that could have even avoided relegation.” ............ “There’s no doubt that at the end of our investigation, any objective person would conclude that the sporting decisions were the result of enormous pressure from the most powerful economic and political groups that influenced the judges. “Juventus wasn’t properly defended at the time and ended up paying for everyone. Not so much because of John Elkann, who was too young, but because of the decisions of the old hands who manipulated the transitional regime. “Certainly, on a sporting level, knowledge of all the new wiretaps we found would have provided a different picture of the whole situation. “It wasn’t just Juventus, which was unscrupulously tampering with the refereeing profession, but all the major clubs were calling, requesting referees they liked, or reporting those they didn’t like. While we can acknowledge that Swiss phone cards remain a dark issue, the enormous disparity in convictions between clubs remains a colossal injustice.” Ravezzani added that the documentary is available on www.chili.com. ............ The documentary is titled ‘Calciopoli ultimo atto: le nuove verità nascoste’. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/ravezzani-calciopoli-inside-job-juventus/

Champions League Preview: Juventus vs. Sporting CP As Luciano Spalletti heads into his second game as Juventus manager, he can still count on one hand how many training sessions he has had with his new club. The simple fact of when he took over for Igor Tudor and how unrelenting the schedule can be for a club playing domestically and in Europe means that new managers are simply thrown right into without much time to actually train the squad that they have taken over. ............ It comes at a time in which Juventus need points in Europe in the worst possible way. The Bianconeri enter Matchday 4 of the UCL league phase on the outside looking in of the play-off round qualification places. That is not a mistake — if the league phase had ended after three games, Juve wouldn’t even have the chance to try and get into the Champions League Round of 16, with their current standing of 25th place meaning they’re the first club out on the cutting room floor. So as Portuguese side Sporting make their way to Turin, the need for three points in Europe is feeling especially important — especially with everything that has happened ever since Juve’s last Champions League fixture two weeks ago in Spain. ............ Spalletti can still count how many training sessions he’s had with his new team, yet he’s about to take control of hs second game come Tuesday night. And as much as the debut against Cremonese was important, this one might be even more of the case or else Juve’s situation in the Champions League will be looking even the more dire than it already is after losing to Real Madrid. Juventus are in 25th place — right outside of the play-off spots that take up ninth through 24th. Sporting, in a much more favorable spot, sit 14 places above Juve after claiming a win over Marseille two weeks ago. ............ In his career, Spalletti doesn’t have what some would call a “good” record in the Champions League. He’s managed 67 games in Europe’s premier club competition, but has only won 29 of them and lost 23, gaining an average of 1.52 points per match. That’s … not great. Spalletti’s most recent season in the Champions League coincided with his title-winning season with Napoli. They advanced to the UCL quarterfinals, only to fall to Serie A rival AC Milan. In that season, Napoli was one of the more impressive squads in Europe, with Spalletti winning seven of the 10 games Napoli played. It was also the furthest a Spalletti-coached team had advanced in the Champions League since his Roma squad made the quarterfinals in the 2027-08 campaign. ............ That means it has to start against Sporting and at least get to a point where Juventus has more points in Europe compared to games played this season. They’re sitting on two points in three games so far, with zero wins to their name. That’s worse than what Thiago Motta did to start the European campaign last season — and we know how that run in the Champions League ended up going. Spalletti was pleased with his team’s effort against Cremonese, one of Serie A’s biggest early-season surprises. But he was also quick to say after Saturday night’s win just how much there is to still improve — which is a given or else he probably wouldn’t be in this position and hired by Juventus in the first place. He pretty much reaffirmed those thoughts during Monday’s pre-match conference. ............ And if things go the way they did over the weekend, then Juve could actually get their first European win of the season — which, considering it’s now November, probably needs to happen soon no matter who is manager. TEAM NEWS The good news from the final training session before Sporting arrives in Italy: Kenan Yildiz is back with the rest of the group and Spalletti confirmed at his pre-match press conference that Juve’s No. 10 is available to play on Tuesday night. The other new injury that was forced to miss the trip to Cremona over the weekend, defender Lloyd Kelly, was not part of Monday’s training session and is a major doubt to face Sporting. ............ With Kelly likely to be unavailable, Tuen Koopmeiners is expected to play in the back three once again just as he did in the win over Cremonese. (That is not something I expected to type a week ago, people. Seriously, had no idea at all.) Spalletti admitted just how important the wins over Udinese and Cremonese were from a mental standpoint, saying: The two wins that these boys earned on their own in recent days allow us to face a great team like Sporting CP with a different spirit.” Spalletti said Dusan Vlahovic currently has “a bit of an advantage” over the other strikers on the roster “because he knows what’s expected here at Juventus when you step onto the pitch wearing this jersey.” Juventus and Sporting last played each other during the knockout round of the Europa League in 2023. JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH It’s been a while since we’ve talked about a certain Dutchman in relatively positive terms. But coming out of Juventus’ win over Cremonese at the weekend, I feel like we can maybe do that again even with the incredibly small sample size. Could Luciano Spalletti have maybe figured something out when it comes to Teun Koopmeiners? ............ Spalletti discovered something in playing Koopmeiners as a very deep-lying playmaker that is in the back three. The thinking behind it was that as Khephren Thuram went on his forward runs, Koopmeiners would be able to fill that space and utilize his strengths to his advantage rather than being shoehorned into positions further up the field like Thiago Motta and Igor Tudor did in his first 16 months at Juventus. For one game, at least, it worked. And with Kelly out injured, we’re likely to see it again. ............ Playing Koopmeiners deeper in midfield — or, in this case, in defense — is something Spalletti specifically pointed out during his introductory press conference last week. Maybe we should have keyed in on it a little bit more as a hint to what he was thinking for the weekend, but nobody was really thinking it outside of him recognizing the Dutchman’s talents. Now, we’re all waiting to see what he can do in the backline once again. Oh, it’s funny how things change so quickly sometimes, right? Koopmeiners potentially being important as a defender is certainly nobody had on their bingo card for this season, let alone with Spalletti calling the shots and doing it right out of the gate as manager. Continue to make it look like a smart decision, Teun. Pleasant surprises are always welcome around here. MATCH INFO When: Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. Where: Juventus Stadium, Turin, Italy. Official kickoff time: 9 p.m. local time in Italy and across Europe, 8 p.m. in the United Kingdom, p.m. Eastern time, 2 p.m. Central time, 1 p.m. Pacific time. ............ . Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/33407/juventus-sporting-cp-2025-champions-league-league-phase-matchday-4-preview-team-news-schedule-how-to-watch

Juventus vs Sporting CP: Preview and Prediction Two European heavyweights with contrasting momentum meet in Turin as Juventus host Sporting CP in the UEFA Champions League group stage. Both sides enter the contest with clear objectives, Juventus are desperate for their first win of the European campaign under new leadership, while Sporting CP will aim to solidify their place in the knockout qualification zone. Juventus’s Champions League campaign so far has been a turbulent one. The Bianconeri drew high-scoring thrillers against Borussia Dortmund (4-4) and Villarreal (2-2) before falling to Real Madrid at the Bernabeu, a defeat that extended their winless run across all competitions to eight matches. That poor stretch cost Igor Tudor his job, with Luciano Spalletti now appointed to steady the ship. Spalletti’s first test in Serie A was encouraging: a 2-1 victory over Cremonese that featured goals from Filip Kostic and Andrea Cambiaso, giving Juventus a much-needed morale boost on the club’s 128th anniversary weekend. Still, their European form remains worrying, Juve have won just two of their last 11 Champions League matches and must take three points here to avoid an early exit. Historically, Juventus have fared well against Sporting CP. They remain unbeaten in four meetings, winning both home games in Turin, most recently in the 2023 Europa League quarter-final, where they progressed at Sporting’s expense. ............ With Juventus seeking redemption and Sporting chasing consistency, this encounter at the Allianz Stadium promises tactical discipline, intensity, and plenty of storylines as both teams look to define their European trajectory. The Hard Tackle takes a look at how both sides could line up and what tactics they might employ on the day. Team News & Tactics Juventus Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti is still dealing with a few selection concerns as he prepares for his first Champions League match in charge of the Bianconeri. The defensive duo of Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal remain sidelined due to lingering injuries, Bremer continues his recovery from a thigh issue, while Cabal is still rehabilitating from an ankle problem. Encouragingly, Kenan Yildiz and Lloyd Kelly could return after missing the weekend clash against Cremonese. Yildiz, who has been recovering from a minor knee problem, is close to full fitness, while Kelly’s muscular issue has improved sufficiently for him to make the matchday squad. Spalletti has no suspensions to contend with, offering him some welcome flexibility in team selection. Although Spalletti is known for favouring a 4-3-3 formation, he opted to retain the 3-5-2 setup introduced by his predecessor Igor Tudor in the Serie A fixture against Cremonese, and that shape is expected to continue against Sporting CP. The back three of Pierre Kalulu, Daniele Rugani, and Federico Gatti will be stationed ahead of goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio, providing defensive solidity and the ability to build from the back. In midfield, Khephren Thuram, Manuel Locatelli, and Teun Koopmeiners are likely to control the central areas, supported by Andrea Cambiaso and Filip Kostic as dynamic wing-backs responsible for both width and defensive cover. Up front, Lois Openda should partner Dusan Vlahovic, who has contributed to 11 goals in his 19 Champions League appearances to date and remains Juve’s key attacking threat. Spalletti will expect his side to maintain compact defensive organisation while relying on quick transitions down the flanks and direct forward play through Vlahovic’s hold-up ability. The tactical emphasis will likely be on controlling possession through Locatelli and stretching Sporting’s back line with overlapping runs from Kostic and Cambiaso. Probable Lineup (3-5-2): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Rugani, Gatti; Cambiaso, Thuram, Locatelli, Koopmeiners, Kostic; Openda, Vlahovic Sporting CP ............ Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Silva; Vagiannidis, Diomande, Inacio, Araujo; Hjulmand, Morita; Quenda, Trincao, Goncalves; Suarez Key Stats Juventus are unbeaten in four meetings with Sporting CP across all European competitions, winning both of their previous encounters in Turin. The Bianconeri have also kept clean sheets in three of those four matches. Sporting CP have never won a competitive fixture in Italy, losing 14 of their 19 visits and drawing the remaining five. They have also lost each of their last three Champions League away games by the same 2-1 scoreline. Juventus have managed to win only two of their last 11 Champions League fixtures, highlighting their recent continental struggles. During that run, they have conceded at least two goals in seven matches. Sporting’s talisman Pedro Goncalves has been directly involved in nine goals from 16 matches this season across all competitions (five goals and four assists), making him the most productive player in the club’s current squad. Juventus have conceded eight goals in their past five matches across all competitions, while Sporting CP have kept three clean sheets in their last five games. Player to Watch Dusan Vlahovic All eyes will be on Dusan Vlahovic, whose sharpness and finishing could be decisive for Juventus as they look to ignite their stuttering Champions League campaign. The Serbian striker has had a turbulent start to the season but remains the team’s most potent weapon in the final third. Vlahovic’s physicality, intelligent movement, and lethal left foot make him a nightmare for defenders, particularly when supplied with quality service from the wings. He has already registered 11 goal involvements in 19 Champions League appearances, underlining his knack for performing on big European nights. ............ Prediction Juventus 2-1 Sporting CP Both teams enter this encounter with contrasting momentum but equally pressing motivations. Juventus, under new boss Luciano Spalletti, are still rediscovering their structure and rhythm after a turbulent start, while Sporting CP arrive full of confidence following a string of domestic victories and an encouraging Champions League campaign. Spalletti’s side will rely heavily on their compact defensive shape and moments of quality from Dusan Vlahovic and Filip Kostic to unlock Sporting’s back line. Meanwhile, the visitors’ creativity through Pedro Goncalves and Francisco Trincao, coupled with their speed in transitions, could cause real problems if Juventus overcommit. However, Juventus’s experience and home advantage at the Allianz Stadium may prove decisive. The Bianconeri are typically difficult to beat in Turin, and Luciano Spalletti’s tactical discipline should help them contain Sporting’s attacking fluidity. . Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2025/11/04/juventus-vs-sporting-cp-preview-and-prediction/

Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti: “The goal is to fight for the Scudetto, not win it.” New Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti addressed the media as the Bianconeri prepare to face Sporting in the Champions League’s fourth matchday. The new boss previewed the fixture and just what his stint in Turin might be like. “Tomorrow will be very difficult because Sporting know how to play football,” the 66-year-old began. “Since Borges has been there, they’ve shown they know how to play; even if they’re difficult to codify on the pitch.” ............ “I asked Yildiz where he feels most comfortable, and he told me he likes playing that centre-left position a bit: he’s good as a second striker, on the wing. “If I think of the great players I’ve coached, he has something of Kvara and also of Di Natale, another with extraordinary talent. Kenan is someone who fills everyone’s Instagram with great plays.” ............ “I said we have to fight for the Scudetto, which is different from winning it. As long as the math doesn’t prohibit us from doing so, we have to aim for anything, even in the Champions League. “The victory in Cremona is entirely down to the players; I didn’t have any input. I like the way the lads look when I speak; there’s desire and willingness: they’re a good group, both footballingly and personally. New rules? Just common sense; Juventus has always had them.” . Read more -> https://www.getfootballnewsitaly.com/2025/new-juventus-boss-spalletti-the-goal-is-to-fight-for-the-scudetto-not-win-it/

Spalletti: ‘Fighting to win is important for Juventus, Vlahovic delighted to stay’ Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti believes that Juventus are in for a tough test against Sporting CP in the Champions League, says that ‘fighting to win’ is more important than winning itself, and adds that Dusan Vlahovic ‘would be delighted’ to stay on with the Bianconeri beyond his current contract. ............ Spalletti got his Juventus tenure off to a winning start with a 2-1 victory against Cremonese in Serie A over the weekend, and is now tasked with guiding Juve to their first Champions League victory of the season. The Old Lady have two points from their first three matches in the competition so far this season. ............ “It’s a very difficult game, because they know how to play football well, and have a very precise way of doing it. They make good substitutions. They also have a lot of really good quality in the final third,” Spalletti said of Sporting CP. ............ “Fighting to win (is what’s important), not winning itself.” ............ “I’m always willing to do my best, and until the maths prohibits us, we have to fight to win everything.” ............ “The victory in Cremona was thanks to the players, I didn’t have much of a say in it. But I thank you for all the nice things you’ve said. “They were attentive throughout the game. I like seeing the look in the eyes that they’re giving me. It tells me about their desire and the will to do well. It’s a good group from a technical and personal point of view.” ............ “We’re lucky to play in the Champions League, it’s the pinnacle of football. To do well in this competition, we have to have our own idea of what it means to be a team, and we have to protect that idea with a lot of personality. “We have to have courage to do what we want to do. We can’t have any excuses, this is football. We have to go out there and choose to do certain things.” ............ “They’re very disciplined, we didn’t need to bring any order. The best rule is common sense. Rules have always been there at Juventus. I’m trying to get to know the team better and give them some directions. The players have often taught me. The important thing is to have desire and to use time well.” ............ “You’ve spoken about two really important players for our team, Cambiaso is a very modern footballer. He’s a strong player who gives you lots of different solutions. He helps you bring others in. “Dusan has a slight advantage because he’s used to the pressure of wearing such an important shirt. I spoke to him several times while we were training. He would be delighted to stay here. He’s not worried about his contract, he only wants to play football.” . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-fightingwin-important-for-juventus/

Spalletti compares Yildiz to Kvaratskhelia and one other underrated Serie A star Luciano Spalletti has compared Juventus star Kenan Yildiz to his former Napoli colleague Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and former Italy international Antonio Di Natale, who the coach feels is one of the most underrated stars that he has worked with so far. ............ Spalletti, speaking in his pre-match press conference on Monday evening confirmed that Yildiz ‘is available’, before going on to compare him to some of the other top-class talents he has had the pleasure of working with previously. ............ “He’s available. I’m lucky because I’ve had some great players,” Spalletti told the press. “Kvara had those characteristics. One who had less of a spotlight, but still had incredible talent was Toto Di Natale. Yildiz is one of those who will be on everyone’s Instagram feeds at the end of the season.” ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-compares-yildiz-to-kvaratskhelia/

Juventus receive Yildiz boost ahead of Sporting CP Champions League test Monday’s reports indicate that Kenan Yildiz should be available for selection in time for Juventus’s Champions League test against Sporting CP on Tuesday evening, having missed out on Luciano Spalletti’s first match in charge over the weekend. Yildiz was not included in the matchday squad for Spalletti’s Juventus debut, which ended in a 2-1 win away against Cremonese in Serie A over the weekend. The Bianconeri no.10 has been struggling with patellar tendinopathy in his left knee, a recurring issue. ............ He should be available for selection, and potentially to start, for Juventus when they take on Sporting in the Champions League on Tuesday night. He could potentially come straight back into the team alongside Dusan Vlahovic in attack, which would be at the expense of summer signing Lois Openda. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-receive-yildiz-boost-for-sporting-cp/

Juventus sweating over Lloyd Kelly who is struggling with physical problem Juventus are reportedly concerned by the physical condition of Lloyd Kelly, who is dealing with two separate physical issues. The Englishman has been omnipresent in the starting lineup since the beginning of the season. He didn’t miss a minute of action under the guidance of Igor Tudor, a choice that was also confirmed by Massimo Brambilla, who acted as caretaker last Wednesday against Udinese. ............ Initial reports revealed that the player has been struggling with back pain, which prompted the decision to rest him on Saturday. Kelly has already overcome his back pain, but he’s now dealing with a thigh problem. ............ The former Bournemouth and Newcastle defender trained on his own on Sunday, which indicates that he might not be fit enough for Tuesday’s vital Champions League contest against Sporting CP. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-sweating-over-lloyd-kelly/

AGGHIAGGIANDE

Chiellini prevails in Lega Serie A vote as Juventus maintain FIGC post Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini has been elected as the Lega Serie A representative on the FIGC board. The 41-year-old has only recently launched a career in sports management, having hung up his boots at the end of 2023. ............ According to several sources in the Italian press, Chiellini will now become a Lega Serie A representative of the FIGC council board after winning a vote on Monday. ............ The Lega gathered to elect a replacement for Francesco Calvo. The latter naturally vacated his post after leaving Juventus earlier this year. He had served as the club’s Managing Director of Revenue & Institutional Relations, but has now joined Aston Villa. Therefore, Juventus were keen to maintain the post by placing one of their own directors, and they identified the universally beloved Chiellini as the perfect candidate for the role. The Livorno native was considered the favourite ahead of the vote, even though some reports claimed that Inter president Giuseppe Marotta was backing Sassuolo CEO, Giovanni Carnevali. While it remains unclear where Marotta’s allegiances lied in this particular election, Chiellini received the majority of the votes, with 12 out of 20 Serie A club representatives picking him for the role. ............ Chiellini will now serve as one of four Lega Serie A representatives on the FIGC board, alongside the league’s president Ezio Mario Simonelli, Udinese vice-president Stefano Campoccia, and Marotta. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/chiellini-prevails-in-lega-serie-a-vote-as-juventus-maintain-figc-post/

Spalletti’s stance proves he understands Juventus better than Motta & Tudor Luciano Spalletti may have only arrived at Juventus on Thursday, but his early statements have depicted a man who’s completely aware of the club’s status in the Italian football pyramid. ............ Aside from the performance on the pitch, Spalletti has also stolen the headlines with his blunt statements, especially the ones related to the club’s Scudetto hopes. The experienced manager insisted that Juventus have what it takes to re-enter the title race, despite bleeding points during Igor Tudor’s last 45 days in charge. According to Tuttosport editor-in-chief Guido Vaciago, Spalletti’s Scudetto stance stems from two main reasons. ............ First, the Tuscan feels that this will be a tight race, as none of the top clubs has managed to break free from the rest of the pack, even though Inter and Napoli probably possess better-equipped squads. Second, Spalletti realises that aiming for the Scudetto must be the norm at Juventus. So while Thiago Motta and Tudor had often insisted that the club’s objective is to finish in the Top Four, the new manager is refusing to settle for a goal he considers below the club’s historical status. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/spalletti-stance-proves-he-understands-juventus-better-than-motta-tudor/

Sono entrato in questo topic proprio per chiedere se fosse vera la notizia di un interessamento del Tottenham (e forse anche del Bayern) per David. Avendolo preso a parametro zero, ci si potrebbe fare una buona plusvalenza.

Tottenham interested in Juventus summer signing who’s already on the market Juventus are reportedly willing to part ways with Jonathan David as early as January, which could represent an opportunity for Tottenham Hotspur. The 25-year-old was expected to be one of the hottest commodities on the market last summer after seeing out his contract with LOSC Lille. ............ David had a decent pre-season and then managed to score on his official debut against Parma. But while hopeful Juventus fans considered a sign of great things to come, the centre-forward hasn’t found the back of the net ever since. Canada’s all-time top goal-scorer started in most fixtures under Igor Tudor, but Dusan Vlahovic has apparently regained his berth in the lineup under Luciano Spalletti. ............ According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Juventus have already placed David on the market. The transfer market expert claims that Tottenham and Bayern Munich have already enquired about his services. ............ As for Spurs, their attacking department has been struggling to produce goals this season, despite the presence of several centre-forwards like Richarlison, Mathys Tel, Dominic Solanke, and former Juventus man, Randal Kolo Muani. ............ For their part, Juventus would register considerable capital gains by selling David, since they signed him on a free transfer in July. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/tottenham-jonathan-david-juventus-transfer-list/