Socrates

Will Bremer and Thuram be fit for the AC Milan game? Gleison Bremer and Khephren Thuram were absent when Juventus travelled to Spain to face Villarreal in the Champions League during midweek. Both players had sustained minor injuries in the previous match against Atalanta, prompting Igor Tudor to take a cautious approach and leave them behind rather than risk aggravating their conditions. ............ Juventus have an opportunity to secure a vital result when they meet Milan, direct rivals in the league standings. The contest carries added importance as both clubs aim to establish themselves as consistent contenders for the title this season. The return of key personnel could prove decisive in determining the outcome of the match. Bremer has been central to Juventus’s defensive solidity since his arrival, and his presence at the back will be critical in containing Milan’s attacking threats. He is expected to be back in the squad for the weekend encounter. His composure, aerial ability and defensive awareness have made him an indispensable figure, and his return would provide reassurance to both the manager and the supporters. ............ Thuram’s recovery has also progressed well, with confirmation of his inclusion in the latest France squad for the October international window serving as evidence of his improving fitness. His ability to control the midfield, contribute defensively and transition quickly into attack has made him one of the most promising performers for Juventus this season. The expectation is that he will be fit to start against AC Milan, offering the team balance and stability in the centre of the pitch. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/will-bremer-and-thuram-be-fit-for-the-ac-milan-game/

In-form Conceicao is pushing for a Juventus start against AC Milan Two matches and two goals mark a run that makes it increasingly difficult to overlook Francisco Conceicao as he presses his case for another starting opportunity. His recent contributions have drawn attention and reinforced his importance within the Juventus setup. ............ Chico has proven to be an influential figure at the Allianz Stadium. In the recent match against Villarreal, it was his presence that altered the course of the game in favour of Juventus. Brought on to replace the struggling Teun Koopmeiners, Conceicao provided a spark that enabled Juventus to elevate their performance and improve upon a lacklustre display earlier in the match. His energy and direct play proved decisive, shifting momentum at a crucial stage. Conceicao is now in line to secure a starting place when Juventus take on AC Milan this weekend. The prospect of facing Max Allegri’s side, currently labelled a winning machine, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the forward. ........... The broader context of the fixture adds weight to the decision. Juventus enter the contest without a victory in their last four matches, a run that contrasts sharply with Milan’s form. Milan has secured four consecutive league wins and has ascended to the top of the table, intensifying the stakes for Juventus. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/in-form-conceicao-is-pushing-for-a-juventus-start-against-ac-milan/

Tardelli tells Tudor three areas he needs to work on The 1982 World Cup winner, Marco Tardelli, has been closely following Juventus and believes there are specific problems that must be addressed if the club is to return to consistent winning form. Juventus remain one of the most recognised sides in world football, but their limitations have become increasingly evident in recent weeks. After beginning the season with a strong run of victories, the Bianconeri have now failed to win any of their last four matches across all competitions. ............ . Tardelli explained his view on the team’s current problems. He said, “Another draw—they’re starting to become annoying, especially when they’re lacking focus and determination—and once again too many goals. A positive note was Conceiçao, who changed the game: unfortunately, it wasn’t enough. Tudor has a lot to work on with set pieces, midfield, and mental toughness.” His remarks highlight three clear areas of concern. First, the team’s vulnerability at set pieces continues to cost them. Second, the midfield lacks the control and intensity required to dominate games consistently. Finally, Tardelli points to issues with mental resilience, suggesting the squad must rediscover focus and determination to avoid lapses that lead to dropped points. ............ Juventus players understand the urgency of regaining momentum. Draws may protect an unbeaten record, but they do little to sustain a genuine title challenge or progress deep into European competition. Without addressing these weaknesses, the club risks losing ground to rivals who are more consistent in delivering results. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/world-cup-winner-tells-tudor-three-areas-he-needs-to-work-on/

Pavan says entire Juventus team must take responsibility Juventus has been struggling defensively in recent weeks, conceding too many goals and drawing their last four matches as a result. While the men in black and white boast several top European talents in their squad and continue to work hard to secure victories, lapses in concentration have repeatedly cost them crucial points. ............ Commenting on the issue, Massimo Pavan said: “The lack of concentration during Villarreal’s equaliser is very serious. Tudor and Gatti were right to get angry, but the responsibility must be shared by the entire team. Juventus absolutely must return to defending with order and concentration, especially on set pieces, where they can no longer afford to be careless.” Pavan’s remarks underline the growing frustration around the team’s defensive lapses. His assessment suggests that the problem is not confined to individual errors but is a collective issue that requires a more disciplined and coordinated approach from the entire squad. ............ Juventus supporters have also voiced disappointment with the nature of recent goals conceded, describing some as avoidable and careless. Poor concentration at decisive moments has transformed potential victories into frustrating draws, limiting the team’s momentum and progress. If Juventus wishes to remain in contention for trophies this season, defensive stability must become a priority. Draws are not enough for a club with their ambitions, and greater focus, particularly during set pieces and in the closing stages of matches, will be vital. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/pundit-says-entire-juventus-team-must-take-responsibility/

Alessandro Matri insists the Match between AC Milan and Juventus is balanced Former striker Alessandro Matri believes there is little to separate Juventus and AC Milan as the two clubs prepare to meet in Serie A this weekend. Juventus may be winless in their last four matches, though they have not suffered defeat in that run, while AC Milan arrive in strong form, having secured four consecutive league victories under Max Allegri. ............ Matri commented, “It’s a tight match, even though Milan are coming off five straight wins and Juventus have drawn four. These are two teams that have strengthened over the summer and are doing well, even though the Rossoneri have found their feet more quickly. I think they have a good idea of how to play, and against Napoli, who were down to ten men, they showed defensive solidity and the ability to struggle. The Bianconeri, on the other hand, are struggling a bit more because they’re conceding a few too many goals, and there’s still no established hierarchy for the center-forward role.” Matri’s words highlight the strengths and weaknesses of both sides. While Milan appear to have settled more quickly into a rhythm, Juventus continue to face challenges in certain areas, particularly in attack and defensive stability. ............ Both clubs have begun the season positively, but for Juventus, victory in this fixture could prove especially significant. Returning to winning ways against one of their fiercest rivals would provide a much-needed confidence boost and help maintain momentum in the title race. Milan, meanwhile, will look to build on their excellent start, knowing that consistency is key to sustaining a Scudetto challenge. With their attacking efficiency and defensive improvement, they will aim to exploit any gaps Juventus may leave. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/alessandro-matri-insists-the-match-between-ac-milan-and-juventus-is-balanced/

Kenan Yildiz tipped to win the Ballon d’Or in the future Kenan Yildiz has been tipped to win the Ballon d’Or in the future by Giuseppe Rossi, who has been highly impressed with the young attacker’s development. Yildiz has emerged as the poster boy of the current Juventus team, and reports suggest he is set to be rewarded with a new contract that would make him the second-highest-paid player at the club. ............ Rossi was full of admiration for the youngster’s qualities. He said, “A super Yildiz. The Turk is a phenomenon and will be a Ballon d’Or winner in the future: he’s 20, but he plays like a thirty-year-old with a hundred Champions League appearances. I have a soft spot for his ability to attempt a beautiful play for the good of the team, not just for the applause. Juventus is Yildiz plus ten others; in terms of impact, he’s a bit like the Lamine Yamal of the Bianconeri.” Rossi’s words highlight both the technical and psychological maturity that Yildiz has already displayed, despite his age. His comparison to experienced players with extensive Champions League pedigree underlines the confidence that the former striker has in Yildiz’s ability to reach the pinnacle of the game. ............ Interest in Yildiz from top clubs worldwide is unsurprising, given his rapid progress and impressive performances. His development trajectory suggests that he is on course to achieve major success if he maintains his current standards and continues to improve. Juventus, aware of his rising status, appears determined to secure his future with a lucrative new deal, demonstrating the club’s belief in him as a central figure for years to come. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/kenan-yildiz-tipped-to-win-the-ballon-dor-in-the-future/

Juventus expecting vital double injury boost ahead of Milan clash Juventus are reportedly counting on Khephren Thuram and Gleison Bremer to recover ahead of Sunday’s big showdown against Milan. The French midfielder and the Brazilian defender both suffered knocks in last weekend’s Serie A contest against Atalanta, forcing Igor Tudor to replace them in the second half. ............ The clash at El Madrigal also bore another injury concern for Juventus, as Juan Cabal, who has only just returned from a 10-month layoff, picked up a knock early in the match. The Colombian is expected to undergo clinical tests in the coming hours, but he is highly unlikely to recover for the weekend’s big tilt. ............ The club is increasingly confident about Thuram and Bremer, tipping the duo to pull off a timely recovery and make themselves available against Milan. This would be a major boost for Tudor, as these two players are considered among the few genuinely ‘irreplaceable’ stars in the lineup. ............ Thuram’s return in particular would be crucial, as Juventus have been truly struggling to replace him. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-thuram-bremer-injury-boost-milan/

“I still don’t understand why” – Capello perplexed by Tudor’s decision in Villarreal draw Legendary Italian manager Fabio Capello couldn’t wrap his head around one particular call from Igor Tudor during Wednesday’s Champions League clash between Villarreal and Juventus. ............ After the contest, Capello rued Juve’s inability to defend corner kicks, noting how they have now developped a knack for conceding from set pieces. “The worst thing about this Juventus side is that they’ve always been surprised by every corner,” said the 78-year-old during his post-match appearance. “The headers are always won by the opposition. It’s always a corner, and I predicted the goal for precisely that reason.” ............ “Juventus changed following Conceicao’s entrance. There was balance on the pitch; this player’s creativity caused Villarreal problems, and for a while, Juve were calm on the pitch, dominating.” ............ “Juventus dropped off significantly in the final 20 minutes; some substitutions probably needed to be made earlier. “I still don’t understand why David remained on the pitch until five minutes from time. So, I have some regrets; at a time when Juve were dominating, perhaps I would have made a few changes.” . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/capello-tudor-villarreal-juventus-draw/

What does Vlahovic think about leaving Juventus in January? Juventus is reportedly preparing to sell Dusan Vlahovic in January after failing to complete a transfer during the summer window. The striker, who has only a limited period left on his contract, has been in excellent form this season, increasing his value and drawing attention from potential suitors. ............ Vlahovic does not want a January transfer. The report suggests that he prefers to remain at the club and see out his contract, with the intention of leaving as a free agent in the summer of 2026. This stance leaves Juventus in a difficult position, as they risk losing a valuable player without compensation. For the club, the decision is complex. Selling him in January could provide immediate financial benefit, but it would also weaken the squad in the middle of the season. Retaining him offers a stronger chance of competing for trophies, but it also means Juventus loses control over his future. The situation underscores the challenge of balancing sporting ambition with financial responsibility. ............ Vlahovic has been the standout striker for Juventus since the beginning of the campaign. His consistent form has significantly contributed to the team’s attack and kept them competitive. With the club aiming to secure silverware, his goals are essential to their prospects. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/what-does-vlahovic-think-about-leaving-juventus-in-january/

Cabal: Juventus defender faces nearly 2 months on sidelines with new injury Juan Cabal has suffered a ‘moderate-grade injury to the biceps femoris muscle in his right thigh’ and, according to reports in Italy, he’ll remain out of action for at least six weeks. Juventus confirmed the extent of an injury to their defender Cabal on Thursday. The Colombia international was subbed off after just 15 minutes in Wednesday’s Champions League game at Villarreal. ............ Cabal had recently returned to action after recovering from a cruciate ligament injury suffered a year ago. ............ The recovery time for the new injury is around six weeks, which means Juventus hope to see the ex-Verona defender return to action for an away game at Fiorentina at the end of November. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-cabal-2-months-out-new-injury/

“Didn’t mean to disrespect anyone” – Renato Veiga explains celebration to Juventus fans “It had to be him” – This was the most common reaction among Juventus supporters after watching Renato Veiga score against them on Wednesday evening. The Bianconeri were minutes away from earning their first victory in the Champions League this season, after pulling off a sensational second-half comeback against Villarreal, led by Federico Gatti and Francisco Conceicao. ............ In the 90th minute, Veiga rose above his markers to net the all-important equaliser for the Yellow Submarines, thus setting El Madrigal ablaze. Although his header was too central, the power took it past Mattia Perin. ............ The Portuguese defender insists that the Bianconeri remain in his heart, and that he didn’t mean to disrespect his former teammates and their supporters. “I spoke to almost everyone after the match. I love them all, and they told me the same,” said the 22-year-old in his post-match interview. “Juventus is a team with great players, but above all, great men. They will always have a special place in my heart. ” I scored and celebrated because that’s who I am; I live the game intensely. I didn’t mean to disrespect anyone. I had a short but very wonderful time at Juve.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/renato-veiga-juventus-villarreal/

Italian media react to David’s missed sitter: ‘Indefensible, is it a joke?’ Jonathan David awkwardly missed an open goal in Juventus’ 2-2 draw against Villarreal on Wednesday and was heavily criticised by Italian sports papers: ‘Indefensible.’ ............ It happened early in the second half, with the Old Lady still 1-0 down. David latched onto a sharp pass from Francisco Conceiçao but, striking with the wrong foot, somehow failed to convert into an empty net, producing one of the most astonishing misses of the season. The Canadia was replaced at minute 86, making room for Dusan Vlahovic. Italian media strongly criticised David on Thursday. ............ Tuttosport rated the Canada striker 4/10, saying that he was ‘indefensible’ and sarcastically asking: ‘Is it a joke?’ “It’s impossible to find adjectives,” added the Turin-based paper, “and he should have scored also when he hit the crossbar. Nothing to be saved.” ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/italian-media-david-missed-sitter-joke/

Gatti disappointed despite astonishing goal: “These were three crucial points” Juventus defender Federico Gatti laments his team’s 2-2 draw against Villarreal on the second matchday of the Champions League group stage. The Bianconeri had already registered a draw on the opening day of the competition, when they rallied from behind to rescue a point against Borussia Dortmund in dramatic fashion. This time, it was quite the contrary, with the Italians allowing the victory to slip through their hands due to a late goal from a familiar face. While Renato Veiga deserves the credit for a well-taken header, Juve’s defending is coming under scrutiny once more, as they, once again, failed to contain the opposition from a set-piece situation. ............ “I saw my goal and it was too good. It was a bit instinctive, and it went well,” said Gatti in his post-match interview. “But I’m really disappointed with the result, because those are two points that you pay for in the long run. We have to mature, because when we’re ahead in the result, it should be game over. I’m sorry.” ............ “Nastiness? It’s something we need to work on. We need to all get together and talk about it because once you take the lead, games have to finish. You have to be a team of free-spirited players, as they say. “It’s disappointing because the three points were crucial. But we need to put this game behind us immediately, and now on Sunday we have another crucial one (against Milan), so we need to recharge our batteries. “We’re in a moment where we’ve been made to pay for every half-mistake. It’s disappointing because we’re throwing away a game we were in control of in the second half. I really felt we were in control.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/gatti-disappointed-despite-astonishing-goal-these-were-three-crucial-points/

‘Angry’ Tudor defends Juventus trio: “Better than anyone else” Juventus manager Igor Tudor was upset with his team after squandering the lead against Villarreal in the dying minutes. Following the 4-4 draw with Borussia Dortmund on the opening day, the Bianconeri were very close to securing their first Champions League victory of the season, as they turned the result upside-down after the break, mostly thanks to Francisco Conceicao’s introduction. ............ After the encounter, Tudor admitted that the late goal was hard to swallow, while praising Conceicao for the great impact he made following his entry. “I’m angry about that goal, you can’t concede it like that at the end,” said the Croatian manager in his post-match interview. “We pushed hard in the second half. We’ll take a point and move on. “Conceicao made the difference; we did what we could. Even a few mistakes are understandable, which is a shame because there’s certainly regret. “We worked hard for two days. There were difficulties and too much frenzy, with a bit of nervousness. Too many simple mistakes.” ............ “In my opinion, the three defenders are doing better than anyone else. We’re lacking a bit of nastiness on the second balls. “The three at the back have held the fort every game: Kelly, Kalulu, and Gatti, who scored a great goal. I liked that. “When you concede a goal in the last minute, there’s always disappointment. We always build on that, we always work hard.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/angry-tudor-defends-juventus-trio-better-than-anyone-else/

Villarreal 2 - Juventus 2: Initial reaction and random observations There were days in which Juventus holding onto a slim but important lead was something that they would see out on a regular basis. It was stressful, sure, but it was also a trait in which they became such a successful club once again. The defense bent but rarely broke, giving us the kind of faith that leads were actually in safe hands when Juventus were trying to protect one. These current days are not like those previous ones. We saw it in important fixtures over the last couple of seasons. We saw it against provincial sides, too. The same script repeated itself — Juventus tried to defend their lead, only for the opposition to level things up on the doorstep of second-half stoppage time and level things up just when you thought they might actually see out the win. We can now add Villarreal to the list of clubs that Juventus have seen score with only stoppage time to go. And not only was it a former Juventus player in Renato Veiga — yeah, sure, he was in bianconero for less than six months, but he still wore those stripes — but also in a second half where Igor Tudor’s squad was the better side. Villarreal didn’t test Mattia Perin in goal the same way they did in the first half, but on what proved to be one of the final scoring chances of the night, Juventus’ zonal marking failed to keep track of their former teammate and arguably the biggest threat in the air on the field. ............ But the ifs can only go so far once again. This Juventus team has now only won one game — the Derby d’Italia thriller — since the September international break ended. At least when it comes to the results, it’s suddenly looking a lot like last season when it felt like all Juve did was record draw after draw. ............ It’s the kind of gut punch in which feels all too familiar in multiple ways. Juventus were playing well as they ventured out on their second-half comeback that saw Federico Gatti score an absolute beauty of an overhead kick out of nowhere and Francisco Conceição turn nothing into something with a little bit of individual magic to put his team ahead for the first time all night. Even as the second half went on, it wasn’t like Villarreal were incredibly threatening. Perin, the somewhat surprising starter in goal even with the rumors earlier in the day surfacing that he might get the call, wasn’t forced into any other major saves like he was on multiple shots in the first half. It felt, at least a little bit, like Juve were actually in control of things and were going to see this thing out. ............ With no Bremer out there, this defense is pretty much the same we saw during the second half of last season. And that is one that couldn’t hold onto leads and rarely recorded shutouts like they did the turn of the new year. The fact that Veiga was able to rise up like he did and wasn’t really challenged at all knowing that this was the 90th minute is just inexcusable. You can’t allow that to happen if you’re marking either him personally or the area in which he is taking up. And let’s face it, there sure were bodies around Veiga … not exactly challenging for the ball. So on and on it goes. ............ RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS Man, if only Jonathan David had scored one of those chances he had, huh? OK, so it’s not just something to pile on David, but a 3-1 lead sure would have been nice to have considering how the rest of that game played out. ............ Perin had a good night in goal. Those two first-half saves he made obviously were great because it kept things within touching distance and allowed Juve to actually go on the comeback that they did. But actually allowing the corner that led to Villarreal tying things up to actually happen is a blemish on his performance. You come out like that, at that time of the game, you have to prevent the corner from happening — and he missed. I love the Gatti story. I really do. But also, if he’s your best defender on the field when you’re trying to lock down three points in the Champions League, I just don’t know what that says about your defense as a whole. ............ The Conceição sub for Teun Koopmeiners at the beginning of the second half sure worked out well, didn’t it? Tudor took off a player that wasn’t doing much and instead put on a player who ended up doing a whole lot of everything. There were things to take issue with from what Tudor did against Villarreal, but bringing Conceição when he did certainly ain’t one of them. ............ Brutal turn of events for Cabal, who went from the thrill of his first goal with Juventus (and in Serie A) to having to be subbed off after 15 minutes due to injury. Guessing we don’t see him for a few weeks, if not longer, thanks to that hamstring injury that didn’t look good at all simply by his reaction to it. It was a rather subdued night for Kenan Yildiz, who took three shots but didn’t put any of them on frame. Who knows how much fatigue is playing into it, but his last couple of shot attempts weren’t even close to the Villarreal goal. ............ Maybe introducing a defender in Daniele Rugani who hasn’t played a single minute since Juve’s preseason slate in August with 10 minutes to go in a game you’re trying to lock down and win wasn’t the best idea. ............ Juventus were ninth in the UCL league phase live table right before Veiga’s goal hit the back of the net. They’re now sitting in 23rd. ............ Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/32609/villarreal-juventus-2025-champions-league-league-phase-initial-reaction-random-observations

Player ratings: Villarreal 2-2 Juventus – Conceicao stars, Koop and Cabal underwhelm Juventus had to settle for a 2-2 draw away against Villarreal in the Champions League on Wednesday evening: Despite a game-changing performance from Francisco Conceicao, the Bianconeri were pegged back in the final minute by former loanee Renato Veiga. ............ Villarreal 2-2 Juventus: Player ratings Juventus: Perin 6; Kalulu 5.5, Gatti 7, Kelly 6; Cambiaso 5 (Rugani n/a), McKennie 5.5, Locatelli 6.5, Cabal 4.5 (J.Mario 6); Koopmeiners 4.5 (Conceicao 7.5), Yildiz 6.5 (Adzic n/a); David 5 (Vlahovic n/a). Best Juventus player: Conceicao 7.5 – The Portugal international came on at the interval for Teun Koopmeiners, who had next to no impact during the first half, and completely changed the game. He won the throw-in that led to Federico Gatti’s bicycle kick, scored the goal that put Juventus into the lead, and should have had an assist to his name had Jonathan David been able to find the target from five yards out. Worst Juventus player: Cabal and Koopmeiners 4.5 – An evening to forget for the Colombian in Spain. Nicolas Pepe had his number from the off, beat him on pace numerous times, got the Juventus wing-back booked and almost won a penalty off him. Then, Cabal’s hamstring went 15 minutes in. The early booking meant that Igor Tudor might have brought him off early, anyway. Koopmeiners was also taken off at half-time after after having little to no impact in one of the attacking roles alongside Kenan Yildiz. Coach: Igor Tudor 6 – Until the final few minutes, this was a game of two halves. Juventus tried to press Villarreal in the first half, but the Yellow Submarine were often able to play around it. Juventus, particularly after the introduction of Conceicao, were a much improved side in the second half, but conceding from a corner in the last minute left the head coach raging during his post-match interview. Villarreal ratings Tenas 6; Mourino 6, Veiga 7, Marin 5, Pedraza 6.5; Gueye 6.5, Parejo 5.5, Comesana 6; Pepe 7, Mikautadze 7, Buchanan 6. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/player-ratings-villarreal-2-2-juventus/

Tudor reacts to Villarreal 2-2 Juventus: ‘Too many nerves and misplaced passes’ Igor Tudor believes that Juventus were too frantic, nervous and misplaced too many passes in their 2-2 draw away against Villarreal in the Champions League on Wednesday evening, but insists that his defenders are performing ‘better than anyone else’ despite suggestions that his side are conceding too many goals. ............ Tudor began his post-match interview with an apology for the Juventus supporters, and insisted that his side ‘can’t’ be conceding last minute goals from corners as they did in Spain. “I’m sorry, it’s part of the game. You can’t lose a game in the last seconds from a corner like that. We’ll take this point and move on. “We worked and prepared as best we could, but we did have some difficulties. There was too much of a frenzy and too many nerves. Too many simple passes we got wrong.” ............ “Chico came on and made the difference. We did what we could, even with some mistakes. Unfortunately they came in the last few minutes.” When asked if Juventus have an ‘issue’ with conceding, Tudor replied: “The three defenders are doing better than anyone else. We need to be winning more second balls. The three at the back held the fort for the whole game.” ............ “There’s always a feeling of regret when you concede a goal in the last minute. It would be nice to play 90 minutes at the highest possible level, but it’s not easy. We have our weaknesses, too,” Tudor concluded. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/tudor-reacts-to-villarreal-2-2-juventus/

Conceicao reacts to Gatti’s Juventus bicycle kick: ‘He tries that sometimes’ Francisco Conceicao believes that Juventus need to improve if they are to win in the Champions League, insists that his side’s improved second half performance against Villarreal was not solely down to him, and has revealed that Federico Gatti attempting a bicycle kick is nothing new: ‘He tries that sometimes’. ............ Conceicao was the player of the match for Juventus on the night, but insists that his teammates already knew that they had to improve, and where to improve, before his introduction at half-time. “I’m not saying that (the game changed) because I came on, but that the team understood what we needed to improve at the end of the first half,” the Portuguese said after full-time. And on where Juventus need to improve generally, Conceicao said: “We have to train a little better: We improved in the second half but couldn’t get the win. “We missed another goal, which we deserved, but it must be said that we played a strong team. We have to continue, be strong and think about the next big challenge in Serie A.” ............ And a final word on Gatti, who scored with a bicycle kick in the second half: “He tries it sometimes, it’s great he managed to do it today. We have to continue working hard if we want to win in the Champions League.” . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/conceicao-reacts-gattis-juventus-bicycle-kick/

Champions League | Villarreal 2-2 Juventus – Conceicao comeback spoiled by Veiga Juventus had to settle for a hard-fought draw away against Villarreal in the Champions League on Tuesday night, as a last-minute header from former Bianconero defender Renato Veiga meant that Federico Gatti’s bicycle kick and Francisco Conceicao’s individual effort counted for just one point. ............ The Yellow Submarine came out firing early on in the first half: Nicolas Pepe looking particularly bright. The former Arsenal man beat Juan Cabal for pace multiple times, got the Colombian booked, almost won a penalty, before the Bianconeri defender was taken off with a hamstring injury 15 minutes in. The deadlock was broken almost immediately afterwards. Andrea Cambiaso shuffled over to the left to replace Cabal after his withdrawal, but was unable to stop Pepe and Mikautadze as they burst into the area. The Ivorian laid off for the Georgian, who slotted away a tidy, first-time finish. ............ Conceicao came on for Koopmeiners at the interval, and his impact was immediate. The Portuguese put one on a plate for David almost immediately after kick-off, only for the Canadian to skew off target from five yards out. Then, he won the throw-in right next to the corner flag which led to Gatti’s wondergoal. McKennie’s long throw was flicked on by Locatelli, only for Gatti to pull off a bicycle kick in the middle of the area. Conceicao then intercepted Dani Parejo’s loose back pass, carried the ball the length of the half and slotted past Arnau Tenas with ease one-on-one to put the Old Lady ahead. ............ Conceicao’s hard work was undone right at the last, however, when former Juventus defender Renato Veiga headed home from a corner in the final minute of regular time. Wednesday’s result means that Juventus have now picked up two consecutive draws in the Champions League, and four in a row across all competitions. Villarreal 2-2 Juventus Mikautadze (V) 18’, Gatti (J) 49′, Conceicao (J) 56′, Veiga (V) 90′. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/champion-league-villarreal-2-2-juventus/

Tutti in difesa nel finale ......