Socrates

Juventus vs Pafos – David Luiz labels Yildiz a ‘phenomenon’ and reveals Spalletti connection David Luiz says Juventus star Kenan Yildiz is a “phenomenon” as the veteran defender prepares to face the Bianconeri with Cypriot side Pafos in the Champions League. ............ The Brazilian singled out Yildiz as the Juventus player who has impressed him most this season. “Yildiz is a phenomenon. He has an incredible style, I love watching him.” ............ David Luiz revealed he has known Spalletti “for a long time”, praising the Italy coach’s obsessive attention to detail and tactical preparation. “I know how much he loves football. He works tirelessly, spending hours studying opponents. He always looks for a plan to win inside the game.” ............ The defender insisted Pafos will not approach the match at the Allianz Stadium with a passive attitude, despite the gulf between the sides. “We know our level, but we won’t go to Turin just to defend. Juventus are a great team, but it won’t be easy to beat us if we stay united, solid and brave.” ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-vs-pafos-david-luiz-labels-yildiz/

Champions League: Juventus vs. Pafos – Probable line-ups Edon Zhegrova is set to earn his full Juventus debut against Pafos in the Champions League on Wednesday evening, as Luciano Spalletti continues life without Dusan Vlahovic in attack. ............ Over in the Champions League, Juventus and Pafos sit level on points (six) after five matches, with the Bianconeri currently sitting in 23rd place ahead of kick-off and tonight’s opponents in 24th. ............ Jonathan David could come back into the starting line-up after being left out against Napoli, with Kenan Yildiz also in line to start. Pre-match reports suggest that Zhegrova could be given his full Bianconeri debut on the right flank, instead of Francisco Conceicao or Lois Openda. This could also be an opportunity for the recently re-emerged Fabio Miretti to start in Central midfield. Kick-off is due at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET). Juventus (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Kelly, Koopmeiners; McKennie, Locatelli, Miretti, Cambiaso; Zhegrova, Yildiz; David. Pafos (4-2-3-1): Michail; Bruno, Luckassen, David Luiz, Goldar; Sunjic, Pepe; Correia, Dragomir, Orsic; Anderson Silva. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/ucl-juventus-vs-pafos-probable-line-ups/

Biasin says Spalletti is using a fearful approach at Juventus Luciano Spalletti is still finding his feet as the new manager of Juventus, working tirelessly to restore the team to its former heights while avoiding the pitfalls experienced by some of his predecessors. Many observers believe Spalletti has more to offer than the last two managers who occupied the Juventus bench, and he has the potential to prove this if he can consistently deliver strong performances on the pitch. However, football often hinges on fine margins between winning and losing, and excessive tinkering with the squad can sometimes result in unexpected defeats. ............ Juve appeared to be adapting to Spalletti’s methods when they recorded three consecutive victories before facing Napoli. Yet, in Naples, the team suffered a defeat that highlighted how delicate the balance can be between preparation and overthinking. Spalletti’s selection choices for that match appeared overthought, and the side did not perform with the same cohesion and intensity displayed in their previous wins. The gaffer is clearly committed to shaping the squad into a unit capable of sustaining a long winning run, but the challenges of adapting to a new system and instilling confidence in the players remain significant. ............ Fabrizio Biasin has suggested that Spalletti may be affected by the lingering weight of his past experiences, particularly his time with the national team. He said: “The coach is still chasing his lost serenity, as if the shadow of his experience with the national team—marked by enormous pressure, fierce criticism, and a climate that was never truly relaxed—has lingered on him longer than expected. At Juve, where the atmosphere is simultaneously demanding (rightly so) and awaiting a turning point (ditto), Spalletti appears at times restrained, almost afraid to dare.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/journalist-says-spalletti-is-using-a-fearful-approach-at-juventus/

Champions League Preview: Juventus vs. Pafos FC When it comes to Juventus’ standing in the Champions League, there is not much of a difference in approach from Matchday 5 now onto Matchday 6. Just because they now have a win under their belt in Europe — which, again, is not necessarily you want to suddenly boast about in the first days of December — it won’t change the challenge that Luciano Spalletti’s squad still faces. They knew the situation two weeks ago against Bodø/Glimt. And they certainly know it now. It’s pretty much win or you’re going to make qualifying for the play-off round an incredibly tough possibility. With three matchdays to go, Juve face a situation where they pretty much have to win every single one of them to be comfortable with their standing in the UCL league phase table. The first of those remaining three matchups comes Wednesday night, when one of the smallest clubs in the competition, Pafos FC of Cyprus, makes their way to Turin for a meeting of clubs who are both sitting on the cusp of either moving up a few more spots with a win or risk going into the final 180 minutes of the league phase teetering on the fence of qualifying for the play-off round or seeing an European run end next month. ............ After Tuesday night’s slate of games, this is how things look when it comes to the league phase table: 23rd place: Juventus — 6 points 24th place: Pafos — 6 points Well, that’s not exactly a great situation to find yourself in — especially when you consider that the cutoff for the play-off round is, you guessed it, 24th place. (Ironically, the team to have just beaten Juventus over the weekend, Napoli, are sitting right above the Bianconeri in 22nd place. So, as you can imagine, things are going great in Europe for a couple of Italy’s biggest clubs. Then you have Atalanta in third and Inter Milan in fifth, so there’s also that.) Juventus and Pafos have taken different paths to their total of six points. Juventus have had high-scoring draws before a comeback win on the frigid artificial turf in the Arctic Circle. Pafos, on the other hand, have played to a pair of scoreless draws in their first two away fixtures in the Champions League this season. ............ How much that good fortune continues for this club from Cyprus remains to be seen. But it’s a pretty simple fact that expecting Pafos to suddenly change what they’re doing against a Juventus side that has struggled to break down defensive approaches would probably be the wrong path to go down. This feels like the kind of matchup in which you know Juve will be the favorite, but also realize Spalletti’s squad will have to try and strike quick to avoid any late-game craziness at all costs. That means a first half like Juventus showed in Naples just ain’t going to cut it. It really doesn’t matter if it’s against Pafos in the Champions League or even a relegation battler domestically, that kind of performance isn’t going to result in much of anything good happenings for Spalletti and Co. Heck, a first half like we saw against Bodø/Glimt won’t be good enough, either. (At least they figured it out for the most part in the second half, right?) This will be Spalletti’s biggest test. Juve’s coming off a bad loss and needs to win in the Champions League. If the 12-point mark is what they need to hit to ensure that they are somewhere in the play-off round field, then a win over Pafos gives them a small room for error heading into the final two league phase fixtures. But anything less than a win against Pafos will make life even hard than it already is — and that’s the last thing this team needs during a time in which they still look like they’re trying to figure out what their new manager actually wants. TEAM NEWS Dusan Vlahovic is out injured. Federico Gatti is out injured. HOWEVER … there was some good injury news to come out of Turin on Tuesday, with both Daniele Rugani and Gleison Bremer returning to training. Spalletti confirmed that both players will be called up to face Pafos, although both of them are almost certainly coming off the bench and nothing more than that. That means Juve’s starting defense will likely be the same trio it was over the weekend: Pierre Kalulu, Lloyd Kelly and Teun Koopmeiners. Spalletti also confirmed that Edon Zhegrova is set to make his first Juventus start on Wednesday night. Just what the domino effect of Zhegrova being in the starting lineup against Pafos remains to be seen. It could be as simple as him coming into the lineup for somebody like Francisco Conceição, or it could be a little more than just that. But considering how things went in the first half against Napoli over the weekend, Spalletti sticking with Kenan Yildiz as a false nine of sorts is probably extremely unlikely. ............ The last time Juventus faced a club from Cyprus was nearly half a century ago. While they haven’t done a lot of winning at home in Europe of late, Juve also hasn’t lost much at the Allianz in continental competition, with just two losses in their last 11 fixtures in Turin. JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH Oh, you mean the guy who so many of us have wanted to see get more minutes is about to get more minutes? ............ Edon Zhegrova is set to make his first start as a Juventus player on Wednesday night. It has maybe taken a little longer than some thought it would, but with the physical limitation he’s had since coming back from his lengthy injury absence, it’s a moment that will come a couple of weeks before Christmas. The question obviously becomes this: How much will Zhegrova be able to give Juventus in said first start? ............ We just don’t know how many minutes Zhegrova will have in his legs. And for a team like Pafos that will almost certainly try and outlast Juventus rather than try and get on them quick — especially with the game being in Turin — just how long this first start will be remains a rather giant question mark no matter how exciting it might be to see him finally be included in the starting XI. To date, Zhegrova has played more than 25 minutes off the bench just twice with Juventus. The most minutes he’s played in a single game this season (28) has come with Kosovo rather than Juventus —and that was during the most recent international break. But since then, his three subsequent appearances with Juve have totaled all of about 25 minutes (plus some stoppage time thrown in). That’s not much, which makes you wonder where his legs are at physically more than anything else. He’s clearly not at 100% fitness yet. That’s obvious. It’s something that Igor Tudor said he didn’t want to push out of fear of seeing Zhegrova be forced to miss even more time than he already has. It’s something that you feel like Spalletti has continued to closely monitor since he became manager in late October, too. But, for now, getting a little more Zhegrova in our lives feels like the kind of spark Juventus need to try and get more of these days. It can’t always be Yildiz being the only threat in attack, and you know Zhegrova is going to be happy to take on the role of guy who also tries to destroy the opposing defense as much as he can. MATCH INFO When: Wednesday, Dec. 10, 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, 3 p.m. Eastern time, 2 p.m. Central time, 12 p.m. Pacific time. Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/34472/juventus-pafos-fc-2025-champions-league-league-phase-matchday-6-preview-team-news-schedule-how-to-watch

Capello advises Spalletti on getting the best from Yildiz Kenan Yildiz is an exceptionally talented player who often delivers strong performances whenever he features for Juventus. Despite his quality, there is a growing sense that the attacker is currently performing below the high expectations placed upon him. The men in black and white regard him as their most important player, which is why securing him on a new contract remains a priority for the club. ............ Speculation continues to circle regarding Yildiz’s future, but for now, Luciano Spalletti must focus on extracting the best from the Turkiye international. In the match against Napoli, the manager opted to use him as a false nine, a decision that has prompted discussion about how best to utilise his creativity and technical ability. Some observers believe that the role does not suit him and that he would flourish more naturally with greater freedom on the pitch. This debate reflects a broader concern that playing him out of position risks hindering his development at a pivotal stage of his career. ............ Fabio Capello has offered his own perspective on the matter, arguing that Yildiz requires a different tactical approach. He said, “I’ve never played like that; I’ve always had two forwards. Yildiz is one of those players who need to be left free, like all quality and creative players. Sure, he has to get back into position when you lose the ball, but then he needs to have the license to create. Sunday wasn’t the right situation, against such a strong and determined team that impressed me.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/capello-advises-spalletti-on-getting-the-best-from-yildiz/

Massimo Mauro does not think Zhegrova is fit enough for this level Edon Zhegrova moved to Juventus after several months of inactivity caused by an injury sustained at Lille. Despite this setback, he is widely regarded as one of the finest attackers in Europe when judged purely on technical quality. This reputation was one of the main reasons Juventus decided to bring him in, even though he had the opportunity to join other clubs during the same period. After arriving in Turin, Zhegrova continued his recovery from the injury he suffered at Lille, and he is still not fully fit. ............ Massimo Mauro has voiced his displeasure with the situation, stating: “I’d also like to comment Zhegrova: he’s technically good, but he’s not physically capable. We’re talking about the highest levels of professional football here; medical checks are also important to assess the players’ athletic level.” ............ There is still considerable time left on Zhegrova’s contract, yet his performances and availability at the start of the season suggest that he may not be a player Juventus can rely on in the long term. The technical promise is undeniable, but without sustained physical readiness, it becomes difficult for the club to plan around his contribution. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/massimo-mauro-does-not-think-zhegrova-is-fit-enough-for-this-level/

Juventus wants to sign Atalanta loanee in January Marco Palestra has been performing impressively on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta this season, and the defender has firmly caught the attention of Juventus. The men in black and white continue to monitor the transfer market closely, keeping track of several key players as they seek to strengthen their squad. While it remains uncertain how active Juventus will be when the transfer window reopens in around 20 days, Palestra is one player who could potentially make the move to Turin. The defender’s development and current form have made him one of the most talked-about young talents in Serie A this season, attracting interest from multiple top clubs. ............ Palestra’s performances at Cagliari have earned him widespread praise, reflecting his growth and consistency this season. His defensive awareness, ability to read the game, and versatility on the pitch have made him a standout performer for the Sardinian side. This form is positive news for his parent club, Atalanta, as it ensures he will either return ready to contribute to the first team or attract a substantial transfer fee. Palestra is one of the standout talents developed by the Bergamo side, and Juventus are reportedly keen to secure his signature while the opportunity remains, recognising the long-term potential he offers as well as his immediate impact on the field. ............ Juventus may not wait until the end of the season to sign Palestra and is reportedly considering moving for him as early as next month. Atalanta are aware of Juventus’ interest, and the report claims La Dea have no objections to cashing in on the defender in the upcoming transfer window. This suggests that both clubs could be closer to reaching an agreement than public speculation currently indicates. If Juventus act swiftly, Palestra could become an important addition to their squad, providing defensive stability and youth development prospects. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-wants-to-sign-atalanta-loanee-in-january/

Tanti auguri Gonzalo (38 anni)!

Chivu protesta: “Il rigore? È già il secondo episodio in Champions, combatteremo le ingiustizie” INTER BASTONATA!

Juventus vs Pafos FC: Preview and Prediction Locked together on six points after five matchdays, Juventus and Pafos FC enter Wednesday’s Champions League clash knowing a defeat could prove fatal to their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds. The stakes are enormous: victory keeps the dream alive, while failure may leave either club outside the all-important top-24 playoff positions. Juventus finally claimed their first Champions League win of the season last time out, edging Bodo/Glimt in dramatic fashion. A tense contest in northern Norway culminated in Jonathan David’s stoppage-time winner, rescuing the Bianconeri from a potentially disastrous result and moving them back inside the qualification zone. Before that breakthrough, Juve had produced roller-coaster draws, 4-4 against Borussia Dortmund and 2-2 versus Villarreal, either side of defeat to Real Madrid and a 1-1 stalemate with Sporting Lisbon. Despite the turbulence surrounding the club in recent years, Juventus have maintained a strong European home record, losing only two of their last 11 continental fixtures in Turin. With two more home games (against SL Benfica and AS Monaco) still to come, Wednesday’s meeting with Pafos represents a crucial opportunity to take control of their fate. However, Luciano Spalletti’s biggest concern is obvious: Juventus cannot keep the ball out of their net. They have conceded in all five Champions League matches this term, eight straight overall, at an average of two goals per game. Their defensive vulnerability was on display again in Sunday’s Serie A showdown against Napoli, where despite a spirited second-half rally inspired by Kenan Yildiz, they suffered a 2-1 defeat that pushed them down to seventh in the league table. While Juventis arrive with pedigree and pressure, their Cypriot opponents Pafos FC travel with belief. ............ With both sides fighting to stay alive, and with Juventus under pressure to assert their superiority, Wednesday’s clash at the Allianz Stadium promises tension, urgency, and possibly another dramatic finish. The Hard Tackle takes a look at how the clubs could line up on the night and what tactics they might employ. Team News & Tactics Juventus Juventus continue to grapple with a significant injury crisis, particularly in attack and central defence. Star striker Dusan Vlahovic has been ruled out until 2026, forcing Luciano Spalletti to improvise in the final third. As a result, either Lois Openda or Canadian international Jonathan David is expected to lead the line on Wednesday, although Kenan Yildiz, who was deployed as a false nine against Napoli, remains an option. Yildiz’s home record is notable: seven of his eight Serie A goal involvements this season have come at the Allianz Stadium, highlighting his reliability in Turin. The defensive situation is even more problematic. All three senior centre-backs, Federico Gatti, Daniele Rugani, and Bremer, are unavailable through injury. With no natural replacements at hand, Spalletti has again turned to Teun Koopmeiners, who will continue in an unfamiliar role on the right side of a makeshift back three. This patched-up defence increases the pressure on Juventus’s midfielders to protect the backline and control transitions. Juventus are expected to line up in their familiar 3-4-2-1 system, albeit with several players operating outside their natural roles. In goal, Michele Di Gregorio returns as the first-choice goalkeeper. The back three consists of Pierre Kalulu on the right, Lloyd Kelly centrally, and Teun Koopmeiners on the left of defence. Across midfield, Weston McKennie will operate at right wing-back, with Manuel Locatelli and Khephren Thuram forming the central pairing, while Andrea Cambiaso fills the left wing-back role. In the two attacking midfield positions, Francisco Conceicao and Kenan Yildiz are expected to support Jonathan David, who leads the line as the lone striker. Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Kelly, Koopmeiners; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Conceicao, Yildiz; David Pafos FC ............ Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Michail; Bruno, Luiz, Luckassen, Goldar; Sunjic, Pepe; Jaja, Dragomir, Orsic; Anderson Key Stats Juventus have conceded in all five Champions League matches this season. The Bianconeri have allowed 10 goals, averaging two goals conceded per game. Pafos have lost only one of their 11 European fixtures this season. Across Champions League qualifiers and league-phase games, their only defeat came against Bayern Munich (5-1). Juventus are unbeaten in nine of their last 11 home games in European competition. Pafos scored in four of their last four Champions League matches. Kenan Yildiz has been directly involved in eight goals at home this season. All seven of his Serie A goal involvements and several strong UCL displays have come in Turin, making him Juventus’s most dangerous threat on home soil. Player to Watch Kenan Yildiz Yildiz has rapidly become Juventus’s most influential attacking force under Luciano Spalletti, and Wednesday’s Champions League showdown offers another opportunity for the 18-year-old to assert his growing importance. Operating either as an attacking midfielder or as a fluid false nine, Yıldız brings a blend of close control, unpredictability, and fearlessness that Juventus desperately need in the final third, especially with Dusan Vlahovic sidelined. At home, Yildiz has been nothing short of electric: all seven of his Serie A goal involvements this season have come at the Allianz Stadium, where he thrives in the familiar atmosphere and plays with visible confidence. His ability to drop between the lines, turn under pressure, and carry the ball directly at defenders makes him Juve’s primary creative spark. Against a Pafos side that prefers compact defensive blocks, Yildiz’s tight-space dribbling and eye for incisive passes could prove decisive. With Jonathan David or Lois Openda expected to lead the line, the Turkish prodigy will have runners ahead of him, perfect for exploiting gaps in transition. If Juventus are to overcome their recent inconsistencies and secure a crucial three points, expect Yildiz to be at the centre of everything positive they produce. Prediction Juventus 2-0 Pafos FC With both clubs level on points and desperate to avoid slipping out of the Champions League playoff positions, this clash carries enormous weight. However, Juventus enter the contest with clear advantages, superior individual quality, home-field momentum, and a far deeper well of big-match experience. Pafos have shown admirable resilience throughout their debut European campaign, losing only once and drawing with AS Monaco in spirited fashion. But away from Cyprus, and especially against a side that dominates possession on home soil, the challenge becomes significantly steeper. Their defensive organisation keeps them competitive, but they concede too many chances under sustained pressure, something Juventus will be eager to exploit. Luciano Spalletti’s men have defensive issues of their own, particularly with three centre-backs unavailable, yet Juve’s attacking options, Kenan Yildiz, Jonathan David, and the dynamic midfield pairing of Weston McKennie and Manuel Locatelli, should be enough to tilt the balance. The Bianconeri have also lost just two of their last 11 European home games, a record that strongly favours them in must-win situations. Pafos may enjoy spells of stubborn resistance and could threaten on the counter, especially through Mislav Orsic and Jaja, but sustaining that for 90 minutes in Turin feels unlikely. . Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2025/12/09/juventus-vs-pafos-fc-preview-and-prediction/

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INTER 0-1 LIVERPOOL

Jovetic thinks there is too much expectation on Yildiz Stevan Jovetic has expressed concerns about the mounting expectations placed on Kenan Yildiz as the Turkiye star continues to strive for success at Juventus. Since breaking into the first team, Yildiz has quickly become a key figure at the club, attracting widespread attention for his performances. ............ From the outset of his senior career, Yildiz has been compared to some of Juventus’ former idols and is even seen by many as one of the world’s most promising young players. This level of scrutiny has created significant expectations in every match, and when he does not deliver, the team often struggles. The attention is almost always on him during difficult performances, forcing Yildiz to mature faster than many players of his age. The constant comparisons and pressure highlight the challenges faced by young talents in high-profile clubs. ............ Jovetic, who has closely followed Yildiz’s development, believes the midfielder is under excessive pressure. The attacker said, “I like Yildiz, he has great talent and quality. But there are too many expectations on him, too many comparisons to Del Piero. He doesn’t need that, he just needs to be himself, and in my opinion, he can become a great player. He has some very important qualities.” Jovetic’s remarks emphasise the need for patience and understanding from fans and media alike. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/jovetic-thinks-there-is-too-much-expectation-on-yildiz/

Juventus is tempted to reunite Comolli with former Liverpool data man A new name has emerged as a potential candidate to become the next Juventus sporting director. With Damien Comolli now installed as CEO, the Bianconeri require a replacement for Cristiano Giuntoli, and several profiles have been monitored as part of this process. A definitive decision might already have been taken had the club not been dealing with a period of notably poor form. ............ The manager continues to work hard to secure improved results, yet this has not caused the club to abandon their search for a new sporting director. ............ The latest figure to attract the club’s attention is James Gow, who previously worked alongside Comolli at Liverpool. Gow did not occupy a major leadership position during his time there, but he was regarded internally as one of the most talented data specialists at the club. This background has made him an intriguing candidate as Juventus considers the future structure of its sporting department. The interest in Gow aligns with the club’s increasingly data-centred approach under Comolli. Juventus have placed significant emphasis on analytical decision-making, and the addition of an individual with Gow’s technical background would be consistent with this strategic direction. ............ Despite Gow’s emergence as a contender, Juventus are continuing to assess several other profiles. The club remain intent on selecting the most suitable figure to support their long-term objectives, and the search is expected to continue until they are confident of making the correct appointment. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-is-tempted-to-reunite-comolli-with-former-liverpool-data-man/

Spalletti: ‘I did damage to Juventus, Kenan Yildiz like Kvaratskhelia’ Luciano Spalletti admits he ‘did damage’ to the Juventus players with bad choices against Napoli, compares Kenan Yildiz to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and warns Jonathan David ahead of the Pafos game. It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin on Wednesday at 20.00 GMT. ............ They are also feeling the pressure in the Champions League after just one win, three draws and a defeat. ............ “Pafos are a tough team, they have many Brazilian players in the squad who can play good football. They were only embarrassed by Bayern Munich, and had some top opponents in the tournament,” said Spalletti in his press conference. “In physical terms, they are very rugged, eager to go into individual duels, they use their hands and push, so it’s going to be a battle for every ball. “I was impressed with their organisation on set plays, as three of their goals were from dead ball situations, and the players supporting the striker are excellent. “We must be wary of their counter-attacks, because they try to intimidate you, then if you break that first press, they sit very deep. We mustn’t lose cheap balls, make sure the preventative marking is all prepared to avoid dangerous situations.” ............ “The numbers are not what we want right now, both in terms of results and individuals. I have more experience of the players at my disposal now, and that is fundamental,” noted Spalletti. “I saw that some things improved. We are not as good at keeping these things going regularly in a match situation, so we’ve got to do them more often. “I saw some good moves from our forwards. It was a great goal that we scored at the weekend, so that means you’ve got it in your DNA. It is essential that we convince ourselves we can do it more often.” ............ “I have the same intentions and certainty as when I accepted the Juventus job. I see them improve in training, and the more I see these players, the more I get angry and am at the same time relaxed. They keep me on a rollercoaster, really. “You see some things and believe at last, they’ve got it and will repeat it more often, but instead it gets cancelled out and we start from scratch. “However, I will not change based on a result, I will keep trying to understand and explain for what will come in future.” ............ “I consider Thuram to be a top player who did well at the weekend, using his physicality in a slightly different way to usual. He needs to improve his running off the field, as it can create spaces for his teammates. He has some good moments and some less good, but it was not a bad performance against Napoli.” ............ “We await Bremer and Rugani with open arms, they will be on the bench tomorrow, I cannot say if they’ll play or not, as they have at most 10-15 minutes in their legs and we can’t over-do it. We’ll see what happens going forward and how they do.” ............ “Perhaps people misunderstood me, but I am convinced there is great potential within Yildiz that you have not yet seen, so I intended to say that. He is giving his all, and growing game by game, but his margin of improvement is incredible. “It’s kind of the same things I said about Kvara when I first had to deal with him, saying he could become a super top player. If you were at all our training sessions, you’d realise what I mean about his potential and what we see. “Just the goal he scored on Sunday was remarkable, running to the by-line and hooking it back from that angle with such delicacy. ............ “As for the strikers, I wanted to win the game! I wasn’t going to risk losing just to send a message! I chose that approach because I was convinced it was the right system for the game, but I didn’t get the result I wanted, and the responsibility is mine. “The very first thing I said when analysing the match was that I didn’t put the team in the best condition to deliver. Those were my choices, I damaged you with them, is what I said. ............ “It was a painful lesson for me, so seeing as I should’ve predicted it wouldn’t work, I made it more difficult for them. In the second half, when we changed system, I saw a different energy and balance to the team. We had equalised and got the match on track, but then we conceded another goal and it all become more difficult.” ............ Spalletti had wanted the 4-3-3 when first coming to Juventus, so could he go back to that? “Now I know the team a little better, although having all 22 players available in a training session is frankly rare with the fixture list so packed. “We need to realise that football is moving away from these tactical system titles, as they vary in different moments. Almost all teams are aggressive, continually rotate positions and deform the old school systems, so it makes little difference. ............ “I too could do with 4-5 games in a row in charge of Real Madrid to show what a good coach I am. Is that what you think? It doesn’t work like that. If you go really strong for two weeks in training, I’ll give you 10 minutes on the pitch. The more consistent you are in training and the match, the more I give you regular time. “It doesn’t work like that, players thinking they need 4-5 games in a row to prove themselves. You can’t just come to training one day well, one day less, and say you need 4-5 games. It doesn’t work like that. “So if you write this all down and explain it to the players, you’re doing me a favour,” concluded Spalletti. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-did-damage-to-juventus-kenan-yildiz/

Spalletti doesn’t hold back on Juventus criticism: messages for six players Luciano Spalletti lost his first game as the Juventus coach on Sunday, and the Tuscan has already sent direct messages to some key players aiming to improve performance on the pitch. ............ The Italian tactician has been criticised by the media for his line-up decisions and his use of substitutions at the Stadio Maradona over the weekend, and Fabio Capello did not appreciate the coach’s remarks on Kenan Yildiz. ............ Clearly, the Italian tactician has only begun his tenure in Turin, but his observations on and off the pitch show where he sees areas of improvement in the team. Below are some of Spalletti’s critical remarks about the team, which he hopes will trigger a positive reaction in the upcoming games. Thuram “Why are we making so many mistakes?” Spalletti rhetorically asked Khephren Thuram during a 2-1 win over Cremonese, which marked his debut on the Bianconeri’s bench. The coach demanded more accuracy in the build-up from the back and higher intensity on counter-attacks and pressing. David and Openda “They need to have that self-esteem and a bit of a di**face, otherwise others notice it, and if you’re timid, they’ll slap you around,” after Juventus 2-1 Cagliari. ............ Yildiz “A week ago, you were asking me when I would give Kenan Yildiz a rest. Today I introduced Openda, a player who Juventus paid €45-50m for. He has to play too. “Yildiz scored and can give us a great deal, but if the team needs those sudden moments of magic and intuitions, then he too needs to increase his contribution,” after Napoli 2-1 Juventus. Locatelli “Locatelli sat a bit too deep and didn’t maintain the position I wanted in midfield, then the two forwards had little mobility and we kept getting bogged down in the middle. We didn’t pass it around quickly or make the numerical advantage count in midfield,” after Napoli 2-1 Juventus. ............ Zhegrova “I could start him, and then you’d notice what the problem is,” Spalletti said after Napoli 2-1 Juventus. “Because he’s a player for the last 15 meters, but do you know he’s had surgery, he’s coming off an injury, and he’s been out for a very long time? This week, we even had to pull him out of training because he felt some pain. It’s been a while since he’s trained at really high levels and really high intensity. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-juventus-criticism-message-6-players/

“A genius.” Former Roma man on what’s it like working with Spalletti Luciano Spalletti’s arrival at Juventus has generated optimism, with the Italian manager appointed following the departures of Thiago Motta and Igor Tudor. He is the club’s third manager in 2025, and there is hope among supporters and players alike that he will remain in charge beyond the current campaign. Over the years, Spalletti has developed a reputation as one of football’s most accomplished coaches, combining tactical acumen with a personality that earns the respect and loyalty of his players. The Bianconeri are now working under his guidance, aiming to turn around a season that previous managers struggled to stabilise. Spalletti’s experience is seen as a key asset for Juventus this season. His ability to connect with players, instil discipline and implement effective strategies has been noted throughout his career, and the men in black and white are hopeful that he can guide them to a more consistent run of performances. ............ Former AS Roma goalkeeper Doni, who worked with Spalletti at Roma, provided insight into the manager’s approach. He said: “Spalletti? A genius. Luciano is a genuine, direct person. He tells you things to your face. Then it was better not to make him angry; he could even slap you. When he shouted, he made the walls of Trigoria shake.” Doni’s comments illustrate the intensity and honesty that define Spalletti’s leadership style, traits that have contributed to his success at several clubs. ............ Juventus now face the challenge of translating Spalletti’s expertise into on-field results. The players are expected to respond to his methods and adapt to his demands, with the goal of improving performances and securing positive outcomes. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/a-genius-former-roma-man-on-whats-it-like-working-with-spalletti/

Khephren Thuram is now at risk of being cut off from the Juventus project Khephren Thuram ended last season as Juventus’ standout midfielder, an outcome that surprised many because he was the least experienced and the least expected to excel among the three midfielders recruited at the time. While Douglas Luiz and Teun Koopmeiners struggled to find consistency, Thuram distinguished himself as an astute signing and opened the current campaign strongly under Igor Tudor. His performances suggested that he was developing into a confident box-to-box presence, frequently driving forward and contributing goals that proved valuable for the team. ............ Despite that early promise, the last few months have been more challenging. Thuram has found it difficult to adapt to the style of play that new manager Luciano Spalletti is trying to implement. Although his ability is not in doubt, the midfielder has not yet found a way to translate his strengths into the system favoured by the new manager. When Spalletti replaced Tudor, the men in black and white worked diligently to ensure the transition was smooth and that the team began the new phase with momentum. Some players responded positively to the change, but not all of them have adjusted at the same pace, and Thuram is among those currently struggling to meet expectations. ............ The Bianconeri are considering their options and could offload Thuram if improvements are not evident soon. The midfielder has a limited window to re-establish himself and show that he can contribute meaningfully to Spalletti’s vision. If he fails to convince the manager, Fabio Miretti is expected to retain his place, while the club explores the possibility of moving the Frenchman elsewhere. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/khephren-thuram-is-now-at-risk-of-being-cut-off-from-the-juventus-project/

Pafos sporting director sends a message to Juventus Juventus face Pafos in the Champions League this week, and it would be unwise for them to underestimate the Cypriot club, a team that has grown rapidly in stature in recent years. Pafos strengthened their squad in the summer with the eye-catching signing of David Luiz, a move that surprised many and marked the club as a side willing to make bold decisions as they prepared for the league phase of the competition. Their rise to the forefront of Cypriot football has been driven by strategic planning and ambitious investment from their owners, who have prioritised long-term progress rather than short-term fixes. ............ Part of this evolution has involved significant changes behind the scenes. The appointment of former Udinese director Cristiano Giaretta has been central to their restructuring. He has overseen wide-ranging improvements that have shaped Pafos into a club capable of challenging established European sides. Under his guidance, they have become more organised, more ambitious and more confident, qualities that pose a potential threat to Juventus. The Bianconeri will enter the match knowing the importance of avoiding any complacency and will be aware that Pafos have already shown they can compete against strong opposition. ............ Giaretta expressed his optimism ahead of the meeting, highlighting the team’s resilience and European form. He said: “So far, only Bayern have managed to beat us. After the draw, I would have been content with the excitement of playing at the Allianz Stadium, but now we have a new goal: to get to the final matchday with Slavia Prague still in contention for the playoffs. It will be difficult because after Juventus we will face Chelsea, but it is no longer impossible.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/pafos-sporting-director-sends-a-message-to-juventus/

Capello criticises Spalletti over Yildiz claims: ‘Hard to say’ Fabio Capello feels it’s ‘hard’ to ask more from Kenan Yildiz and says that even if Luciano Spalletti was trying to motivate the squad, he should have delivered his criticism behind closed doors. ............ “Spalletti has just arrived, he’s trying to do things, bring ideas and give the team more personality,” Capello said. “In the match against Napoli, maybe he was a bit intimidated by Conte’s side and, knowing the strength of their midfield, he decided to play without a centre-forward. It didn’t work well. “Napoli are a team with quality, and when they defend, they do it with a lot of men, with compactness and without leaving much space,” Capello continued. “Spalletti is trying to find some solutions, and after three consecutive positive results, he wanted to pick up points. That’s how I see it. But you could see the difference between the two teams.” ............ “Yildiz is one of those players you have to leave free. Of course, he has to get back into possession when you lose the ball, but then he needs the license to invent things,” he said. “Players with quality and creativity have to be allowed to express themselves. It wasn’t the right context, against such a sharp and determined team, which actually positively impressed me. “The ball moves slowly and rarely vertically, that’s something not easy to fix because it’s been going on since last year. That means it’s a problem of players’ characteristics. “The ball moves quickly when you have players with technique and vision, who aren’t afraid of trying a vertical pass. Thuram is a player who carries the ball, Locatelli sees the play, he could also play vertically, but perhaps there aren’t movements in that direction because his teammates prefer to receive the pass at their feet. The only one who asked for the ball in behind got injured, and that was Vlahovic.” ............ “I think that was something to be discussed internally when reviewing the match with the players; there was no need to say it to the media,” concluded the ex-coach. “I think we all ask more of our players, but right now it’s hard to say that about Yildiz. He was probably trying to motivate them, but even sort of guilt trip towards Locatelli seemed a bit too much to me.” ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/capello-criticises-spalletti-over-yildiz-claims-hard-to-say/

Atalanta set €35m price for young wingback wanted at Juventus Juventus and Roma will have to splash the cash if they wish to stand a chance at signing Atalanta wingback Marco Palestra. The 20-year-old is considered one of the best talents to emerge from La Dea’s famous academy in recent years. ............ Atalanta allowed Palestra to join Cagliari on loan this season in order to gain valuable playing time in Serie A. ............ The Bianconeri had already been linked with the Atalanta youth product last summer, while Roma were impressed by his display against them on Sunday, as he helped the Isolani earn a shock victory over the Italian capital side. The Giallorossi would thus like to reunite him with Gasperini. ............ Atalanta have no intention to sell the young Italian in the summer, but they instead plan to reintegrate him back into the squad once his loan spell with Cagliari expires. Therefore, the Bergamo-based club would only consider irresistible offers, starting from €35 million. Hence, it remains to be seen if Juventus or Roma would be willing to fork out such a hefty sum on the rising prospect. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/atalanta-price-tag-juventus-marco-palestra/