Socrates

“I can play as a goalkeeper!” – Versatile Juventus star doesn’t mind new role After featuring in yet another new role, Timothy Weah reiterates his desire to contribute to the Juventus cause regardless of the position. ............ But in his most recent outings, Weah has joined the backline in the absence of Andrea Cambiaso and Juan Cabal, playing as right-back in the last two outings against Benfica and Empoli. ............ “I feel good as a full-back, if I can help the team, then I’d be happy to do it,” said the former Lille star in his post-match press conference. “I can also be a goalkeeper if the coach asks me to. I want to continue playing well for the team.” ............ “This victory is important for us. It was difficult to concede a goal after four minutes, but we reacted well. We must continue on this path. We are satisfied. It was difficult for us after Benfica, but we must continue like this. Now we are thinking about Como. “When the fans whistle, it is always difficult, because we need everyone’s support to win. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/i-can-play-as-a-goalkeeper-versatile-juventus-star-doesnt-mind-new-role/

Yildiz roulette impresses Kolo Muani: ‘I had in my head’ Kenan Yildiz admits he wanted to do Zizou Zidane-style roulette for the whole game as Randal Kolo Muani praises the Turkish talent: ‘It’s good to play with him.’ Kolo Muani and Yildiz left their mark in Juventus’ 4-1 win over Empoli on Sunday. The French striker scored twice in his first appearance at the Allianz Stadium. The build-up to the second goal was inspired by Yildiz’s roulette, which allowed the Turkish talent to dribble past two opponents and set up Timothy Weah, whose shot was deflected by Kolo Muani to give Juventus the lead. “It’s nice. I had in my head all game, so I wanted to do it,” Yildiz said. “I was happy we scored after that. I always think about what I can do in the game to improve myself. I don’t tell myself to be the leader. I just want to help the team. Of course I always try to give my best. This is it.” ............ “We got three points today, so we are happy. It’s incredible. I am happy, and now we have got to celebrate this. Yildiz is a great player with great technique. He’s young, so it’s very good to play with him.” Kolo Muani said. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/yildiz-roulette-impresses-kolo-muani-head/

Juventus player ratings vs Empoli: Kolo Muani announces his arrival at the Allianz Juventus XI Michele Di Gregorio – 5.5 The goalkeeper was beaten by Mattia De Sciglio’s tame header which went between his legs. In his defence, he didn’t have a clear vision. Timothy Weah – 6.5 ............ Federico Gatti – 7 ............ Renato Veiga – 6 The new signing had a nervy start as one could expect on his club debut, but grew in confidence as the match progressed. Nicolo Savona – 6.5 The youngster played in an unusual role on the left flank, but you could hardly tell. Offered Yildiz support in attack and looked solid at the back against Gyasi. Manuel Locatelli – 6 ............ Teun Koopmeiners – 5.5 Another underwhelming display from the Dutchman who played in a slightly deeper role than usual. Almost scored the equalizer but his close-range shot was blocked by McKennie. Nicolas Gonzalez – 6 The Argentine went for the spectacular but his shot was too central. But an overall decent display on the right wing. Weston McKennie – 5.5 ............ Kenan Yildiz – 6.5 The Turkish teenager was one of the few bright spots for Juventus in the first half, causing havoc on the left flank. His brilliant turn sparked the second goal. Randal Kolo Muani – 8 The Frenchman marked his first appearance at the Allianz Stadium with a brace that turned the result upside-down. Juve’s attack operates much more smoothly with him in the lineup. Substitutes Dusan Vlahovic – 7 A much-improved cameo from Serbian, even before scoring the goal. Had three teammates in support, but showcased his keen desire to reconcile with the net by selfishly taking the shot himself. Khephren Thuram – 7 Picked up Conceicao’s run with an inch-perfect long ball for the fourth goal. Francisco Conceicao – 7 Kept his composure to produce a clinical shot despite going full throttle. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-player-ratings-vs-empoli-kolo-muani-announces-his-arrival-at-the-allianz/

Thiago Motta: ‘Juventus players took responsibility’ in 4-1 victory Thiago Motta insists Juventus got a ‘deserved’ 4-1 victory against Empoli, coming back from an early goal with players ‘taking responsibility’ like Dusan Vlahovic and Kenan Yildiz. ............ Randal Kolo Muani scored twice in three minutes to turn it around, with Dusan Vlahovic and Francisco Conceicao scoring off the bench in stoppages after Youssouf Maleh had left Empoli down to 10 men. “We came here for the victory and I congratulate my players for their courage to get a deserved win” Thiago Motta said. “I saw many players take responsibility on the field today and we took home what we deserved. The players earned this with their hard work from the first day of training and we want to continue like this.” ............ “We were on level terms and as soon as I called Dusan to the touchline, we scored again. I preferred to take Kenan off because he and Randal can both play down the left, so with another more central figure, we could move him into that position. “Dusan also gave his contribution coming on, not just with the goal, but with his work for the team. I am sorry for those who were unable to participate in this victory, but we are a united group.” Just before introducing him as a substitute, Thiago Motta was caught on camera telling Vlahovic he would certainly score. “It’s because I can see it in his face,” revealed the coach. “I see his belief, his hunger and a little anger within him. Since the start of the season, he has played so much and there were times when he wasn’t 100 per cent fit, but had to play anyway. “Today he did not start, but when he came on, he helped the team to win the game. I am happy for all the players, because this is a great win.” ............ There was a marvellous bit of Kenan Yildiz skill to turn between defenders and get away in the build-up to the second goal, which got the crowd on its feet. “Wonderful, yes, but this is what I expect from him, I see it all the time in training. There are many other things I really like to see too and he knows it. I realise he didn’t deserve to go off at that moment, but I needed to make a choice for the good of the team,” added Thiago Motta. ............ “We know our priority is to pass our way out from the back when possible, as it keeps us compact and we can attack with strength. When there are opponents who press us almost man for man, like Empoli did today, it is important to use our strikers and their pace to cause them problems,” concluded Thiago Motta. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/thiago-motta-juventus-players-responsibility/

Player Ratings: Juventus 4-1 Empoli – Kolo Muani shakes the Bianconeri Randal Kolo Muani paved the way for Juventus’ comeback against Empoli at the Allianz Stadium, helping the Old Lady to secure a 4-1 win and move into the top four. Kolo Muani is Football Italia’s Man of the Match in Juventus’ 4-1 win over Empoli. The French striker now has three goals in his first two games with the Bianconeri. ............ Kenan Yildiz was among the best Juventus players and contributed to Kolo Mauni’s second goal with a stunning ruleta to dribble past two opponents in the build-up. ............ Juventus 4-1 Empoli – player ratings Juventus: Di Gregorio 6; Savona 6, Gatti 6, Veiga 6.5, Weah 6.5; Locatelli 6, McKennie 6.5 (85′ Thuram 6.5); Yildiz 7 (65′ Vlahovic 7), Koopmeiners 6.5, Nico Gonzalez 6.5 (85′ Conceiçao 7); Kolo Muani 8. Coach: Thiago Motta 6.5 Best Juventus player: Kolo Muani 8 – Used all his physicality to score the equaliser. Lucky to deflect a Weah shot on target to give Juventus the lead a few minutes later. Besides the two goals, he always had a positive attitude, also when he was moved to the left-winger role following Vlahovic’s introduction. Juventus coach: Motta 6.5 – The Juventus reaction was slow and almost inexistent in the first half, aside from a couple of chances. The improvement in the second half was evident and brought a deserved win, even if the Bianconeri were helped by Saba Goglichidze and Maleh’s red card. Empoli: Vasquez 6.5; De Sciglio 7, Ismajli 7 (59′ Goglichidze 4.5), Marianucci 6.5 (90′ Tosto N/A); Gyasi 6, Henderson 6 (90′ Bacci N/A), Anjorin 6.5 (49′ Zurkowski 5.5), Cacace 5.5; Esposito 6 (90′ Konate N/A), Maleh 5; Colombo 6. Coach: D’Aversa 5.5 Best Empoli player: Ismajli 7 – ............ Lowest Empoli rating: Goglichidze 4.5 – ............ Empoli coach: D’Aversa: D’Aversa 5.5 – ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-empoli-ratings-kolo-muani-shakes/

The numbers behind Renato Veiga’s Juventus debut: Solid defensive stats Renato Veiga made his full debut for Juventus during their encouraging 4-1 victory over Empoli in Serie A on Sunday in what was a defensively sound display from the Chelsea loanee on his first start in Italy. ............ He was left out of the team for the 2-0 loss to Benfica in the Champions League midweek, but was given the nod by Thiago Motta for his first Bianconeri appearance against Empoli on Sunday instead. ............ The Portugal international made three successful tackles during his first Juve match with a 100% completion rate and made four clearances and one interception over the 90 minutes. He was not dribbled past once during the Empoli match, nor was he dispossessed. Veiga also won three of his four aerial duels for a percentage of 75%. Renato Veiga also had a 85% pass completion rate. ............ He was also in control of the ball for 5.6% of the Empoli game. Of the Juventus players, only Koopmeiners and Manuel Locatelli spent more time on the ball. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/the-numbers-behind-renato-veiga-juventus-debut/

Io non amo invece in generale le esultanze sfrenate dei milionari pallonari. Cioé questi, nel tempo libero, pensano ad una esultanza che faccia colpo sui tifosi. Come al solito, in questi tempi, l'apparenza é piú importante della sostanza. Ma capisco che sono giovani e che non possono ragionare come un vecchietto come il sottoscritto.

Thiago Motta on what Kolo Muani and Renato Veiga bring to Juventus Thiago Motta explains what he feels new signings Randal Kolo Muani and Renato Veiga can bring to Juventus as they host Empoli. ‘Dusan Vlahovic is more of a centre-forward.’ ............ “We have Renato Veiga for his first game, he immediately put himself at the service of the team and will give a big hand. We changed a few things in midfield, as we have players who can get into the box, while the wingers can change positions and not give reference points to the opposition defenders,” continued the Juventus coach. ............ Kolo Muani has started both Serie A games since his transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, sending Dusan Vlahovic to the bench. “They are different players. Dusan is more of a centre-forward, whereas Kolo Muani also played on the wings and has more movement. I am happy to have them, as they give the team alternatives. We start Randal and I am sure if needed that Dusan can help the team with his characteristics,” concluded Thiago Motta. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/thiago-motta-kolo-muani-renato-veiga-juventus/

Juventus turn jeers to cheers as they storm from behind to beat Empoli At the Allianz Stadium in Turin, wounded Juventus hosted Empoli for Sunday’s early Serie A kickoff. The Bianconeri pulled off a remarkable second-half comeback to prevail by four goals to one. ............ The contest couldn’t have started any worse for the home side, as Mattia De Sciglio, out of all people, scored the opener after four minutes. The veteran was left unmarked on the corner kick, and his header went past the crowd to beat Michele Di Gregorio who allowed the ball to slip between his legs as he didn’t have a clear vision. Empoli thought they had a chance to double their lead from the spot when Di Gregorio tripped Youssef Maleh inside the box, but VAR intervened to overturn the decision to a handball in the leadup. ............ Nevertheless, the Old Lady turned the game upside down 20 minutes into the second half thanks to Kolo Muani’s brace. The Frenchman beat Saba Goglichidze in the physical duel before finding the back of the net from an acute angle. A few minutes later, Weah’s long-range shot only needed a slight touch from Muani to wrongfoot Devis Vazquez. ............ Dusan Vlahovic was so eager to get on his scoresheet that he paid little heed to the three open teammates he had in support, instead going for a long-range attempt which somehow beat the shaky Vazquez. In added time, another two substitutes combined to score the fourth for the Old Lady, as Khphren Thuram’s stunning long ball put Francisco Conceicao through on goal. Despite going full speed, the Portuguese still had the composure to produce a clinical finish. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-turn-jeers-to-cheers-as-they-stormed-from-behind-to-beat-empoli/

E infatti De Sciglio, autore del gol, ha chiesto scusa. Non so se si fosse accorto del fuorigioco ma sicuramente si sará ricordato di tutti gli anni trascorsi alla Juve da infortunato perenne con lo stipendio regolarmente pagato. Mi é piaciuto in ogni caso il suo gesto.

Ho sentito che, nella sua situazione, é idoneo a giocare nella Premier League ma non in Italia. Ci sono dei criteri diversi per valutare i calciatori nei due Paesi.

Juventus vs. Empoli match preview The first month of 2025 was always going to be a crucial one for Juventus. You had big Serie A matchups basically every weekend. There were two of the final Champions League league phase matchups, and there was even the new-look Supercoppa thrown in there as well. ............ But it was also going to be an important month to see just where things stood for Thiago Motta’s squad as they tried to get things on track during a crucial stretch domestically and in Europe. In their seven January fixtures, Juventus recorded just one win and had as many draws (3) as they had losses. They dropped points domestically, they dropped points in Europe and they made the long trip to Saudi Arabia only to have it be another instance of Juve taking the lead only to give it away against AC Milan. ............ Throw in a tired, tired squad thanks to so many injuries and the Juventus that will host Empoli in Sunday’s lunchtime kickoff has a very ominous feeling about it and very much a cloud hanging over its head. This is a season and a team that is desperate need of something to go their way and get some sort of positive momentum injected into their veins like they’re getting treatment in the ER. Good thing that an Empoli side that is sitting in 15th entering the weekend and hasn’t won in nearly two months is the team Juve are lining up against. ............ So now with the unbeaten run to begin the Serie. A season officially a thing of the past and Juventus looking even worse against Benfica midweek in the Champions League, Motta’s task is easy on paper but very much not based on how everything is actually going. Getting Juventus back on track, based on the current state of the roster that is quite tired (if not exhausted) and very much shorthanded. ............ Now Motta and Juventus need to truly beat a team that they must beat — no questions asked. Whether they can actually do it is another matter entirely, and that pretty much says a lot about the way things are looking as we head into February after such a rough January. TEAM NEWS Pierre Kalulu is the latest name to be added to the injury list after he damn near did the splits in Wednesday’s loss to Benfica. Kalulu is expected to be out at least a couple of weeks, with Juve saying Thursday they will re-evaluate him in 10 days. Andrea Cambiaso has not been called up and will miss his second straight game due to the ankle injury that he first picked up in December. ............ Nicolo Savona, who has gone from playing a lot to play very little the last couple of weeks, is dealing with pubalgia (aka a sports hernia), with Juventus reportedly hoping to put off surgery until the summer. He has been called up to face Empoli. ............ All three of Juventus’ January signings — Alberto Costa, Randal Kolo Muani and Renato Veiga — have been called up to face Empoli. Both Costa and Kolo Muani have been tipped to play from the start, according to predicted lineups in the Italian press. On the Veiga front, Motta praised the 21-year-old’s versatility at the back, but said he is first and foremost a central defender during his time at Juventus. Regarding the winter signings playing against Empoli, Motta said: “The new arrivals will give us a boost: let’s see if they will help the team from the start or as substitutes tomorrow.” JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH At this time, I’m thinking Thiago Motta is much more willing to start a brand new player up front as compared to a recent arrival in defense. Because of that, my mind is telling me that the experiment alongside Federico Gatti will be more like what we saw midweek compared to a brand new face making his Juventus debut. So, let’s get Loca, I guess. Loca in defense. If Manuel Locatelli does in fact get a start alongside Gatti in the center of defense, we are very much looking at another game in which Juventus’ backline is a makeshift one. Considering the only other option in the center of defense is Veiga — who has only been with Juve for a little more than a week — thrusting him into the defense where chemistry and communication is so crucial might be a little too much. ............ We’ve Locatelli play as a center back a couple of times this season. Like, officially a center back, not the times in which he’s been a midfielder who has dropped quite deep. The first time was a pretty solid effort. The most recent, last week against Benfica, not so much — which isn’t totally a surprise knowing full well he’s not a center back and was suddenly thrust into a situation that was far from what it was like when his first appearance in defense took place. ............ Or maybe it just turns out to be Veiga partnering with Gatti for the first time since he arrived with Chelsea. At the very least Juve would have two natural center backs, right? MATCH INFO When: Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025. Where: Allianz Stadium, Turin, Italy. Official kickoff time: 12:30 p.m. in Italy and the Central European time zone, 11:30 a.m. in the United Kingdom, 6:30 a.m. Eastern time, 3:30 a.m. Pacific time. . Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2025/2/2/24355058/juventus-empoli-2025-serie-a-matchday-23-preview-team-news-schedule-how-to-watch

Done Deal: Juventus agree Kelly terms with Newcastle United Reports suggest Juventus have now agreed a deal with Newcastle United for defender Lloyd Kelly, on loan with obligation to buy for €18m plus add-ons. The centre-back had been a target throughout the January transfer window, but seemed to drop down the pecking order when others like Kevin Danso of RC Lens emerged. There was also the issue that Newcastle United were refusing to let him leave on loan without an obligation to make the transfer a permanent one. That had been a sticking point for Juventus, but with only 48 hours left in the transfer session, the Bianconeri decided to take the plunge. ............ Kelly should fly in to Turin for his medical tests during the weekend. The final figure is at closer to €20m including bonuses, noting it will be a loan with option to buy that becomes an obligation if certain conditions are met. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/done-deal-juventus-agree-kelly-terms-newcastle/

Newcastle agree £15m deal – Breaking news on Saturday night There has been some major developments regarding the future of Lloyd Kelly after ongoing links with Serie A giants Juventus. ............ Newcastle United have now AGREED a deal with Juventus over Lloyd Kelly. An agreement is now in place over an initial loan with an obligation to buy for £15m at the end of the 2024/25 season. The deal is £15m with add-ons and includes a future sell-on clause. Terms of his contract have also been agreed and medical plans are in the offing to bring Kelly to Turin. ............ . Read more -> https://www.nufcblog.co.uk/2025/02/01/newcastle-agree-15m-lloyd-kelly-deal-breaking-news-on-saturday-night/

Juventus reignites move for Lloyd Kelly after missing out on Danso Juventus appears to have given up on signing Kevin Danso from Lens after the Ligue 1 club failed to respond to their offer. ............ Juve has been targeting several players to strengthen their backline, and one name that has emerged as a top priority is Newcastle United’s Lloyd Kelly. Juventus has tried to sign Kelly in the past but was told by the Magpies that he would not be available on loan. However, the Bianconeri are now refocusing their efforts on a deal for the English defender. The club’s failure to secure Danso means they are now shifting their attention to Kelly, who is seen as a solid addition to Juventus’ defensive options. The 26-year-old has proven his abilities in the Premier League, and his experience could be invaluable for Juve as they continue to strengthen their squad. If a deal for Danso falls through, Kelly could be the ideal solution for Juventus’ defensive needs. However, Juventus faces an uphill battle. Newcastle are not a financially struggling club, and they will only let Kelly leave if the Bianconeri make an offer they deem worthy. Juventus will have to be prepared to meet Newcastle’s asking price, or they risk missing out on this target as well. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-reignites-move-for-lloyd-kelly-after-missing-out-on-danso/

Juventus considers signing Empoli star if they fail to land Danso Juventus are finding it increasingly difficult to secure the signing of Kevin Danso from Lens, and they have now begun identifying alternative defensive options. ............ Juve has been monitoring Danso since last summer, considering him one of their best possible defensive reinforcements. With their squad in need of additional depth at the back, they remain hopeful of securing a deal. However, as negotiations continue to stall, the Bianconeri have accepted the possibility of missing out on him and are now preparing to shift their focus elsewhere. Juventus has identified Empoli’s Saba Goglichidze as a backup option and has placed him on standby. Should they continue to face difficulties in striking a deal for Danso in the next few hours, they are expected to move swiftly for Goglichidze instead. ............ Juventus must act decisively in the final hours of the window to avoid being left without reinforcements. Waiting too long for any single player could result in missing out on much-needed defensive cover, which could prove costly as the season progresses. If a deal for Danso does not materialise soon, switching their attention to Goglichidze would be a pragmatic decision to ensure the squad remains competitive. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-considers-signing-empoli-star-if-they-fail-to-land-danso/

Jorge Mendes offers another PSG star to Juventus Juventus have been offered another Paris Saint-Germain attacker just weeks after securing Randal Kolo Muani on loan from the Ligue 1 champions. The Bianconeri brought in Kolo Muani to strengthen their attacking options, and the Frenchman has already made an impact. His addition was seen as a step forward for the club, but speculation continues to surround the future of Dušan Vlahović. ............ As a result, Juventus are expected to part ways with Vlahović in the summer, with several top strikers already on their radar as potential replacements. One of the names under consideration is Gonçalo Ramos, who could be available for transfer as PSG are open to offloading him. Jorge Mendes, Ramos’ agent, has been actively offering the Portuguese forward to clubs, and Juventus are among the teams he has approached. While the Bianconeri are unlikely to make a move this month, they are keeping an eye on Ramos as a possible successor to Vlahović at the end of the season. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/report-jorge-mendes-offers-another-psg-star-to-juventus/

Juventus step up Kelly talks with Newcastle United Juventus are back in direct negotiations with Newcastle United for defender Lloyd Kelly and could get the deal done for €15-18m. The Bianconeri had circled back to Kelly after the talks with RC Lens for Kevin Danso fell apart at the last minute. ............ It would be a loan with an obligation to buy at the end of the season for circa €15-18m including various add-ons. This is different to the original idea, which was to bring Kelly in purely on a dry loan or at most with an option to buy at the end of the season. ............ The 26-year-old can play as a central defender or a left-back when required. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-step-up-kelly-talks-newcastle-united/

Juventus vs Empoli: Preview and Prediction Juventus will look to bounce back from a rough patch of form that includes back-to-back defeats when they welcome Empoli this weekend. A disappointing 2-0 loss to SL Benfica in the UEFA Champions League saw Juve slide to 20th in the standings, forcing them into a challenging route in the knockout rounds. On the domestic front, their 2-1 defeat to Napoli last weekend further highlighted their struggles, leaving them winless in three matches. Despite their recent issues, Juventus remain unbeaten at home in Serie A this season, which serves as a significant morale booster. The Bianconeri have historically dominated Empoli in Turin, winning 80% of their encounters. Manager Thiago Motta, however, is under growing pressure to improve results, as Juventus’ current tally of just eight wins from 22 league games is their worst at this stage of a season since 1988. ............ Team News & Tactics Juventus Thiago Motta faces some defensive adjustments this weekend as first-choice centre-back Pierre Kalulu is sidelined with a muscular injury. To fill the gap, either new signing Renato Veiga or midfielder Manuel Locatelli may slot into the backline. Meanwhile, Andrea Cambiaso, who has been the subject of Premier League transfer rumours, is expected to return to the squad after missing the midweek defeat against Benfica due to an ankle issue. Randal Kolo Muani, who scored on his league debut against Napoli, will look to make history by becoming the first Juventus player since Carlos Tevez in 2013 to find the net in his first two Serie A games. The French forward is likely to lead the line, with Dusan Vlahovic potentially dropping to the bench. The attacking midfield trio of Kenan Yildiz, Teun Koopmeiners, and Facundo Gonzalez could provide support from behind. Juventus are likely to set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Mattia Perin will guard the goal, with a back four comprising Nicolo Savona at right-back, Federico Gatti and Renato Veiga as the central defenders, and Andrea Cambiaso slotting in at left-back. The midfield pivot is expected to feature Manuel Locatelli and Marcus Thuram, providing a balance of defensive solidity and forward thrust. In the attacking third, Kenan Yildiz will operate on the right wing, Nico Gonzalez on the left, and Teun Koopmeiners in the central playmaker role. Randal Kolo Muani is set to lead the attack as the lone striker. Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Perin; Savona, Gatti, Veiga, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Thuram; Yildiz, Koopmeiners, Gonzalez; Kolo Muani Empoli ............ Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, De Sciglio; Gyasi, Henderson, Anjorin, Cacace; Fazzini, Esposito; Colombo Key Stats Juventus have won just one of their last four Serie A games against Empoli (D2, L1), despite having won 10 of their previous 11 meetings (L1). Interestingly, the last two matches between the sides ended in draws. Empoli have only avoided defeat in seven of their last 24 Serie A matches against Juventus (W3, D4). Notably, five of these positive results occurred in the second half of the season. Juventus have won 80% of their Serie A home matches against Empoli (W12 D2 L1). Among current Serie A opponents, only Hellas Verona (85%) have a worse record at Juventus in terms of the home win percentage. ............ Juventus are the only unbeaten team at home in Serie A this season and have the most draws on home soil (7). Following their 2-0 victory against AC Milan, Juventus could secure back-to-back home wins in a single league season for the first time since January 2024, when they achieved three consecutive victories. Player to Watch Randal Kolo Muani The French forward, who recently joined on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, made an immediate impact by scoring on his league debut against Napoli. This debut strike not only highlighted his ability to adapt quickly to new environments but also drew comparisons to Juventus icons such as Carlos Tevez, who similarly hit the ground running upon joining the Bianconeri. Kolo Muani’s pace, physical presence, and intelligent movement make him a nightmare for defenders. Operating as the focal point of Juventus’s attack, his ability to hold up the ball and link play with supporting midfielders and wingers adds a new dimension to the team’s forward line. Against Empoli, a team known for their defensive frailties, Kolo Muani’s sharpness in the final third and knack for exploiting space could prove decisive. In this match-up, he will be looking to become the first player since Tevez in 2013 to score in his first two league appearances for Juventus. Prediction Juventus 2-0 Empoli Given Juventus’s unbeaten home record this season and Empoli’s struggles both at home and against higher-ranked opponents, the Bianconeri are clear favourites. While Empoli have shown occasional resilience on the road, Juve’s superior quality and home advantage should help them secure a much-needed win. The Hard Tackle predicts a 2-0 win for Thiago Motta and his charges. . Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2025/02/01/juventus-vs-empoli-preview-and-prediction-2/

Serie A Juventus vs Empoli: Match Preview As Serie A action resumes this weekend, Juventus will be looking to halt their recent slide when they host Empoli at the Allianz Stadium on Sunday. The Bianconeri, under increasing pressure after a string of disappointing results, face an Empoli side battling to avoid relegation but with a history of causing upsets in Turin. ............ The Old Lady’s domestic form has been equally concerning. With only eight victories in 22 Serie A matches, Juventus find themselves in fifth place, a far cry from their usual title-challenging position. Motta now bears the unwanted distinction of having the third-lowest win percentage of any permanent manager in Juventus’ illustrious history. ............ Team News Juventus may welcome back Andrea Cambiaso, who has been the subject of transfer speculation, after an ankle issue. However, they’ll be without centre-back Pierre Kalulu due to injury, potentially forcing Motta to reshuffle his defensive line. New signing Randal Kolo Muani, fresh from scoring on his debut against Napoli, could lead the line for Juventus. The French striker has the opportunity to become the first player since Carlos Tevez in 2013 to score in his first two league games for the club. ............ Expected Starting XIs Juventus: Perin; Savona, Gatti, Veiga, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Thuram; Yildiz, Koopmeiners, Gonzalez; Kolo Muani Empoli: Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, De Sciglio; Gyasi, Henderson, Anjorin, Cacace; Fazzini, Esposito; Colombo Match Prediction While Empoli have proven to be tough opponents for Juventus in recent meetings, the Bianconeri’s desperation for a win coupled with their home advantage should see them through. Expect a closely fought contest, but Juventus should emerge victorious, potentially by a 2-0 scoreline. Prediction: Juventus 2-0 Empoli . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/serie-a-juventus-v-empoli-match-preview/

Juventus Manager Thiago Motta: “No Confrontation with Club, Same Trust. The Team Has Grown” On the eve of Sunday’s lunch match against Empoli, Juventus manager Thiago Motta addressed the media in a pre-match press conference. The coach emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, stating, “We want to play a great match to achieve victory, which is our main objective.” ............ Regarding new arrivals, Motta expressed disappointment over Kalulu’s absence due to injury but praised the integration of new players. He hinted at the possibility of seeing them in action against Empoli, either as starters or substitutes. ............ He stressed the importance of consistency, noting that injuries have impacted the team’s ability to maintain a steady performance level throughout the season. When questioned about a potential confrontation with the club management, Motta firmly stated, “No, no confrontation and same trust.” ............ Motta praised the versatility of players like Koopmeiners and newcomer Renato Veiga, highlighting their willingness to adapt to different positions for the team’s benefit. ............ The Juventus manager concluded by acknowledging the high expectations at a club of Juventus’ stature, stating, “Juventus is a great team with a great history. It must be accepted. To improve. To want to win more than before.” . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/juventus-manager-thiago-motta-no-confrontation-with-club-same-trust-the-team-has-grown/

Cristiano Giuntoli plans to make former Serie A ace Vlahovic’s replacement Dušan Vlahović appears closer to leaving Juventus than staying, as he continues to struggle for relevance at the Allianz Stadium. ............ Juventus have been in discussions with the Serbian forward regarding a contract extension. However, negotiations have stalled, and with just over a year remaining on his current deal, the likelihood of his departure in the summer is increasing. The Bianconeri are now preparing to move on, already identifying a high-profile replacement. Juventus sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli has chosen Victor Osimhen as the ideal successor to Vlahović. The report claims that Juve is prepared to offer €75 million to Napoli to secure the Nigerian striker’s services. Osimhen is widely regarded as one of the best forwards in Europe, known for his relentless pressing, work rate, and exceptional goal-scoring instinct. Given his attributes, he could be a significant upgrade on Vlahović and provide Juventus with the consistent attacking threat they have been missing. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/cristiano-giuntoli-plans-to-make-former-serie-a-ace-vlahovics-replacement/