Socrates

Balzarini praises Koopmeiners for his performance against Atalanta Gianni Balzarini has highlighted Teun Koopmeiners as one of the stand-out performers from Juventus’ match against Atalanta last night. The Dutchman, who joined the Bianconeri from La Dea, has struggled to make a significant impact since his arrival at the Allianz Stadium earlier this season. However, Juventus are counting on him to deliver a strong second half to the campaign as the team looks to climb the Serie A standings. ............ Last night, he returned to face his former side for the first time since leaving, putting in a determined display, though he would undoubtedly have preferred to be on the winning team. Juventus found it difficult to secure a decisive goal after Atalanta levelled the score, but Koopmeiners’ performance did not go unnoticed. His versatility and work ethic stood out in what was one of Juventus’ better overall team performances this season. Speaking about Koopmeiners’ display, Balzarini said: “Coming to the individuals in my opinion, beyond an overall team performance, perhaps one of the best seen this year, and speaking of individuals I have to say that it was, at least for an hour, one of the best performances by Koopmeiners who transformed, let’s say the pressure of this match, into motivation and it showed. He fought like crazy, like a lion. He played as a centre forward, he played as a winger on the right and he played on the left, he played in the middle.” ............ Adding goals to his game would elevate Koopmeiners’ impact even further, and Juventus fans will be hoping he continues to build on this impressive showing to help the team achieve success. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/pundit-praises-koopmeiners-for-his-performance-against-atalanta/

Manchester City’s Pursuit of Cambiaso: Juventus Open to Monstrous Offer Manchester City’s interest in Juventus left-back Andrea Cambiaso has intensified, with the English champions reportedly keen on securing his services during the current January transfer window. This development comes at a time when both clubs are navigating through a busy period of transfer activities. ............ Pep Guardiola, who has officially committed to Manchester City for the upcoming season, is looking to revolutionize his squad. In this generational shift, Cambiaso is seen as a potential cornerstone – a player with the quality to contribute in both attacking and defensive phases, potentially defining the new-look Manchester City. The interest appears to be mutual. Cambiaso is understandably attracted to the prospect of joining one of the world’s top teams, despite their current season not meeting their usual high standards. ............ Juventus’ stance on the matter is clear. For a ‘normal’ offer, they would not even consider parting with Cambiaso, who has been a crucial element in Thiago Motta’s system when fit. However, the Turin giants might find it difficult to refuse if Manchester City were to table a ‘monstrous’ proposal – one that could potentially alter the financial landscape for Juventus. The key factor in this potential transfer lies in how far Manchester City are willing to go to fulfil Guardiola’s wish. With the transfer window closing on February 3rd, both clubs have time to move from preliminary discussions to concrete negotiations. ............ . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/manchester-citys-pursuit-of-cambiaso-juventus-open-to-monstrous-offer/

Motta’s call convinced Kolo Muani to join Juventus despite Man Utd interest Juventus coach Thiago Motta reportedly called PSG forward Randal Kolo Muani to convince him to move to Turin despite interest from Manchester United and other European clubs. Juventus are ready to welcome PSG forward Kolo Muani on a dry loan deal until the end of the season. The Bianconeri reached an agreement with the French club and player on Tuesday, and Kolo Muani is expected in Italy to undergo medical today. Several European clubs, including Tottenham and Manchester United, had been in talks with the striker’s entourage, but according to several Italian sources, Thiago Motta played a key role in negotiations. ............ Motta personally spoke to Kolo Muani to explain to him the Juventus project and convince him to move to the Allianz Stadium. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/motta-convinced-kolo-muani-juve-despite-man-u/

Why Juventus would listen to Arsenal offer for Vlahovic Arsenal are reportedly among the clubs monitoring Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic, and the Bianconeri are ready to listen to offers for the Serbian for more than a reason. ............ The Serbia international has a contract expiring in 2026 and all the most reliable Italian sources claim that he and his entourage are unwilling to extend under Juventus’ conditions. Vlahovic’s salary automatically increased to €12m this season, making him the highest-paid player in the league. Juventus want to spread his wages over a longer period, but Vlahovic is unwilling to do so. This means the Old Lady will have to consider offers for him in January or during the summer to avoid losing him on a free transfer in a year. ............ Motta has never admitted it publicly, but Vlahovic is not the ideal centre-forward for his playing style, given that the Juventus coach prefers link-up strikers like, for example, Joshua Zirkzee. Even Fabio Capello has recently warned Motta against expecting from Vlahovic the same he wanted from Zirkzee at Bologna last season. Juventus are also on the verge of signing Randal Kolo Muani on loan from PSG, but the French striker’s signature is unrelated to Vlahovic’s transfer situation. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/why-juventus-listen-arsenal-offer-vlahovic/

“I saw a great team spirit” Locatelli reacts to Juventus draw against Atalanta Manuel Locatelli expressed his satisfaction with the performance of Juventus during their 1-1 draw against Atalanta last night. While the result was not ideal for the Bianconeri, their display offered glimpses of the quality and determination needed to improve their fortunes this season. The men in black and white showed resilience and teamwork throughout the match, which allowed them to stay competitive against a strong Atalanta side. Despite not securing all three points, Locatelli and his teammates demonstrated an attitude that could bode well for their upcoming fixtures. If Juventus can maintain this standard of play, they have a strong chance of climbing both the Serie A and Champions League tables. ............ Locatelli, a key figure in the team, took to Instagram after the match to share his thoughts on the game and emphasise the importance of persistence. In his post, he wrote: “We are the first to be angry about this situation, but today and in other games I saw a great team spirit and this must be the basis. We are missing something that we will only find with daily work. Until the end!” ............ The midfielder, who has grown into a leadership role within the squad, has become one of Juventus’ most influential players. His willingness to speak out and rally the team reflects the mentality that coach Thiago Motta has been trying to instil in the group. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/i-saw-a-great-team-spirit-locatelli-reacts-to-juventus-draw-against-atalanta/

Nicolas Gonzalez insists Juventus is not in a crisis after Atalanta draw Nicolas Gonzalez has addressed critics who believe Juventus is currently in a crisis. The Bianconeri have struggled to secure consistent victories this season, with draws overshadowing their number of wins. Despite boasting some of the best players in Italy, Juventus has been unable to consistently get the best performances out of their squad. ............ Juventus are determined to improve their form in the weeks ahead. Following the 1-1 draw against Atalanta, Gonzalez dismissed the notion of a crisis and emphasised the team’s positive trajectory. He said: “What crisis? We are not in crisis, this is the right path. We have fought and battled, we hope from now until the end of the championship to get the results we deserve. We don’t like to draw, but today we played a great game and I’m happy with the team’s performance.” ............ However, for a club with Juventus’ ambitions, playing well alone is not sufficient. The focus must now shift towards securing wins consistently, ensuring their promising displays result in points on the table. Gonzalez’s confidence in the team’s progress reflects a desire to silence their critics, but tangible results are needed to back up his claims. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/nicolas-gonzalez-insists-juventus-is-not-in-a-crisis-after-atalanta-draw/

OFFICIALLY OFFICIAL: Juventus sign Vitoria Guimaraes fullback Alberto Costa Juventus have made their first signing of the January transfer window, and it is very much at a position of need. As Juventus headed into their first weekend of Serie A action for 2025, it felt like help was on the way to try and alleviate the defensive depth crunch that Thiago Motta has had to deal with for the better part of the last three months. ............ Juventus announced Wednesday evening that 21-year-old Portuguese fullback Alberto Costa has completed his move to Turin from Vitoria Guimaraes for an initial fee of €12.5 million. Worked into the deal for Costa are another €2.5 million in bonuses as well as €1.3 million in ancillary costs. Costa, a member of Portugal’s Under-20 setup, has signed a contract with Juventus through 2029 and has been praised in the official announcement as somebody who has the “ability to read defensive situations, combined with a good sense of positioning and willingness to push forward.” ............ So here he is, folks. Here is Alberto. Here is the first player to wear the No. 2 jersey since our beloved Mattia De Sciglio left Juventus last summer. Those are big shoes to fill. Costa, who turned 21 back in September, has made 10 league appearances in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, and is the second-youngest player in Portugal to record at least two assists this season. ............ With Costa’s signings, Juventus will have another option at right back and be able to give another 21-year-old, Nicolo Savona, a bit of a respite after playing a huge amount of minutes the last two months. ............ . Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2025/1/15/24343340/official-juventus-sign-vitoria-guimaraes-fullback-alberto-costa-2025-serie-a-january-transfers

OFFICIAL: Juventus sign Alberto Costa Juventus have officially announced their first signing of the 2024/25 winter transfer window, securing 21 years old Portuguese right-back Alberto Costa from Vitoria Guimaraes. The deal, which could potentially exceed €15 million with bonuses, marks a significant move for the Italian giants. ............ The transfer details reveal a substantial investment in the young talent. Juventus will pay Vitoria Guimaraes €12.5 million, spread over four financial years, plus €1.3 million in additional fees. The agreement also includes potential bonuses worth up to €2.5 million, bringing the total possible value of the deal to €16.3 million. In their official statement, Juventus Football Club S.p.A. confirmed the permanent acquisition of Alberto Oliveira Baio, known as Alberto Costa. The club outlined the financial structure of the deal and announced that Costa has signed a contract until June 30, 2029. . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/official-juventus-sign-alberto-costa/

New Juventus Signing Alberto Costa Arrives for Club Medical Juventus have made their first move in the winter transfer market, securing the services of young right-back Alberto Costa from Vitoria Guimaraes. While the club’s management continue to pursue a central defender and a striker, with Kolo Muani’s loan deal reportedly finalized, Cristiano Giuntoli has delivered Thiago Motta a new defensive option. The Old Lady has reached an agreement with Vitoria Guimaraes for Costa’s permanent transfer. The deal is worth between 12 and 13 million euros, with additional bonuses and a 5% sell-on clause. The 21-year-old Portuguese defender arrived in Italy late last night, landing at Turin-Caselle airport around 3 AM. This morning at 9 AM, Costa made his way to the J|Medical center to undergo the customary medical examinations. ............ The young talent is set to earn an initial salary of 500,000 euros net per year, with provisions for increases over time. . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/new-juventus-signing-alberto-costa-arrives-for-club-medical/

Juventus, Vitoria Guimaraes agree to deal for Alberto Costa Help in defense looks like it’s on the way for Thiago Motta and Juventus. ............ Juventus and Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes have agreed to a deal for fullback Alberto Costa. The total package is worth up to €15 million, according to Romano, with Juventus paying an initial €12.5 million fee for the 21-year-old right back and another €2.5 million in add-ons. The deal picked up serious steam over the weekend, with Juventus and Vitoria advancing in negotiations early Sunday after word that Costa had rejected other offers from the likes of the Premier League and Serie A came out. It’s still a bit of an unknown when Costa will arrive in Turin to undergo his medicals and sign his contract with Juventus. But, at the very least, Juventus will soon have another defender to add to their ranks during a time in which Motta has been essentially had the bare minimum of players available at the back for the better part of the last four or six weeks. ............ With the addition of Costa, it means Nicolo Savona — who has been asked to play a whole lot more than anybody expected when he was first promoted from the Next Gen squad — will have a little more depth again at right back. It would, in theory, allow Andrea Cambiaso to go back to being a full-time left back once he’s fully fit again, with Weston McKennie also available in a pinch if necessary. So far this season with Vitoria, Costa has a goal and a pair of assists and has played 1,289 minutes across 18 appearances in all competitions. ............ . Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2025/1/14/24343125/alberto-costa-juventus-vitoria-guimaraes-2025-serie-a-january-transfer-rimors

Done Deal: Alberto Costa to join Juventus Juventus have made a significant move in the winter transfer market by finalizing the acquisition of Alberto Costa from Vitoria Guimaraes. This marks the club’s first signing of the January window, as they aim to bolster their squad under the guidance of coach Thiago Motta. The agreement for Costa’s transfer has been set at a fee ranging between €12 million and €13 million, with additional bonuses potentially bringing the total to €15 million. The 21-year-old right-back is expected to arrive in Italy this week to undergo medical examinations and officially sign his contract, which will reportedly include an annual salary of €500,000 that may increase over time. ............ His performance has caught the attention of several clubs, but Juventus successfully outmaneuvered competition from AS Roma and Sporting Lisbon, who were also interested in his services. ............ Juventus’ sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, has been keen on balancing youth and experience within the squad. ............ Giuntoli commented on the club’s broader objectives: “The strategy is to strengthen the team in the defensive department and look around to see if there are any opportunities in other departments.” He acknowledged the challenges of finding impactful players during the January transfer window but expressed optimism about upcoming developments. . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/done-deal-alberto-costa-to-join-juventus/

Fabrizio Romano expects Juventus to seal their first sign in 24-48 hours – Figures revealed Juventus will reportedly secure their first signing of the January transfer session very soon, with Alberto Costa all set to join Thiago Motta’s ranks. ............ The young player is a youth product of Vitoria Guimaraes who climbed his way up the ranks to join the first team last summer, and has immediately made a splash with the seniors. He has thus far contributed with a goal and two assists in 20 appearances across all competitions. ............ According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Serie A giants have secured an agreement with the player and his club, so he’s now expected to arrive at Continassa over the next 24 to 48 hours where he will undergo his medical before signing a five-year deal. ............ The transfer market insider reveals that the Bianconeri have offered a package worth 15 million euros, thus outbidding Sporting who only put 12 million on the table. For his part, Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla expects Costa to be one of the lowest earners at Juventus, with a yearly net salary of 750,000 euros. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/fabrizio-romano-expects-juventus-to-seal-their-first-sign-in-24-48-hours-figures-revealed/

Alberto Costa: Juventus closing in on deal for new defender Reports in Italy suggest that Juventus are closing in on a deal to sign the 21-year-old full-back Alberto Costa from Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes. ............ Juve are hoping to wrap up a permanent deal for Alberto Costa, for a fee in teh region of €15m. Romano suggests that Portuguese rivals Sporting CP had logged an offer at the €12m mark. Juve also reportedly have an agreement in place with the defender on personal terms. He is reportedly set to sign a five-year deal should the deal with Vitoria go through. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/alberto-costa-juventus-closing-in-on-deal/

Pavan insists there was a change of attitude from Juventus against Atalanta Massimo Pavan has praised Juventus’ improved attitude during their 1-1 draw against Atalanta, noting a noticeable change in their approach despite the result not going their way. Juventus went ahead through Pierre Kalulu and seemed on course to secure all three points, but Atalanta found an equaliser through Mateo Retegui. The match was closely contested, with both teams creating chances to win. However, Juventus showed an intensity and determination that has been missing for much of this season. The Bianconeri’s performance in the second half was particularly encouraging as they pushed for a winner. ............ Massimo Pavan expressed his thoughts on the performance and mentality displayed by Juventus after the match. He said: “With Atalanta, a little flame [was ignited], now let’s not let it go out. I saw a team that wanted to try to play the game, that had chances, and Atalanta celebrated the draw while Juventus was angry. The mentality is right, and to keep this flame alive, we have to win against Milan. We’ll see if it will be possible.” ............ The players’ reaction to the result and their evident disappointment at not winning suggest a shift in their mindset. This has been a season of inconsistency for Juventus, but the performance against Atalanta offers some optimism that the team is beginning to show signs of progress under Thiago Motta. The upcoming fixture against Milan presents an opportunity to build on this performance and demonstrate that the mentality Pavan described can be sustained. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/pavan-insists-there-was-a-change-of-attitude-from-juventus-against-atalanta/

No to Juventus, Deco Convinces Araujo to Stay at Barcelona Ronald Araujo has decided to remain at Barcelona after a crucial meeting with the club’s sporting director, Deco. This decision comes as a significant blow to Juventus, who had been actively pursuing the player to bolster their defensive lineup. ............ The Italian club was prepared to make a substantial investment, initially offering €35 million, which Barcelona rejected. Juventus were reportedly ready to increase their bid to €50 million, the figure Barcelona had been seeking. However, the situation took a dramatic turn following a pivotal conversation between Araujo and Deco. The Barcelona sporting director apparently convinced Araujo of his central role in the club’s project. Spanish sources even suggest that Araujo is now open to extending his contract until 2029. ............ This development is likely to force Juventus to reconsider their transfer strategy. The Italian giants may now turn their attention to other defensive targets, with Antonio Silva from Benfica and David Hancko from Feyenoord potentially back on their radar. . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/from-spain-no-to-juventus-deco-convinces-araujo-to-stay-at-barcelona/

New Juventus Signing Alberto Costa Arrives for Club Medical Juventus have made their first move in the winter transfer market, securing the services of young right-back Alberto Costa from Vitoria Guimaraes. While the club’s management continue to pursue a central defender and a striker, with Kolo Muani’s loan deal reportedly finalized, Cristiano Giuntoli has delivered Thiago Motta a new defensive option. The Old Lady has reached an agreement with Vitoria Guimaraes for Costa’s permanent transfer. The deal is worth between 12 and 13 million euros, with additional bonuses and a 5% sell-on clause. The 21-year-old Portuguese defender arrived in Italy late last night, landing at Turin-Caselle airport around 3 AM. This morning at 9 AM, Costa made his way to the J|Medical center to undergo the customary medical examinations. ............ The young talent is set to earn an initial salary of 500,000 euros net per year, with provisions for increases over time. . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/new-juventus-signing-alberto-costa-arrives-for-club-medical/

Kolo Muani to Arrive In Turin Today Ahead of Juventus Signing Juventus are set for another exciting arrival as they continue to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window. Following the acquisition of Alberto Costa, the 21-year-old right-back from Vitoria Guimaraes, the Bianconeri are now welcoming French striker Randal Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain. Kolo Muani is expected to land in Turin around 2 PM today, flying in from the French capital. Upon arrival, the former Eintracht Frankfurt player will head directly to the J Medical center for his mandatory medical examinations. These tests are crucial before he can put pen to paper on a contract that will tie him to the Old Lady until the end of the season, fulfilling the team’s need for an additional striking option. The deal for Kolo Muani has been structured as a straight loan without an option to buy, a testament to the negotiating skills of Juventus’s Chief Football Officer, Cristiano Giuntoli, and the club’s transfer team. They managed to secure both PSG’s approval and the player’s agreement yesterday, with Juventus set to cover Kolo Muani’s entire salary for the next six months. ............ . Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/kolo-muani-to-arrive-in-turin-today-ahead-of-juventus-signing/

Juventus’ parade of draws continue as they fail to finish against Atalanta At this point, I feel like I just have to scream it from the rooftops. I’ve seen it too many times, under multiple coaches in multiple seasons. It’s the thing that most needs to change about this Juventus team, and it frustrates me to no end when it happens over and over again. So, let me climb up here and get it out: PLAYING CONSERVATIVE WHILE AHEAD IS DEATH! We’ve seen Juve do it so often this year, and especially last year. They score a goal, then immediately drop deep into their own territory and invite their opponent back into the game. Tuesday night’s match against Atalanta was that failing writ large. Juve had played a solid first half, and had come out of the gates flying at halftime. When Pierre Kalulu opened the scoring with a striker’s finish nine minutes after the restart, things looked like they might finally be looking up. And then they turtled up. Over the next 24 minutes, Juve allowed Atalanta two-thirds of the possession and allowed a shot a shade over every three minutes. The equalizer that came in the 78th minute was about as predictable as it got, dooming Juve to another 1-1 draw to add to the pile. Juventus’ inability to keep their foot on the gas and put games away has been their Achilles heel all year, and it again haunted them as the draws have continued to pile up. If the team is going to meet their minimum objectives this season — like qualifying for the Champions League — they’re going to have to figure out how to keep moving forward and put matches to an end early. ............ Gasperini’s men deployed their trademark press from the off, and Juve found it very difficult to play their way through it. They were harried into multiple loose passes, often gifting Atalanta some short fields. Koopmeiners, while not quite the recipient of the volcanic hatred that Vlahovic was on the end of in his first trip back to Florence, was nonetheless loudly jeered whenever he came close to the ball. ............ The hosts retained the initiative for much of the game’s early stages, but Juve did manage to get a few punches in as the half wore on. In the 21st minute Koopmeiners twisted around De Roon and got himself into the left channel, but he pushed his shot wide, eliciting a reaction from the crowd about as loud as a goal. ............ As halftime approached, Kolasinac somehow avoided a card when he ran elbow-first into McKennie’s face. Juve started to pep up in the half’s final moments. They got a short-field run of their own when Koopmeiners made an excellent tackle in midfield and sent the ball toward the box. Yildiz’s shot was blocked as he drifted inside from the left and fired for the far post, but the rebound went right to González, who settled the ball and fired a shot that scratched the outside of the goalpost with Carnesecchi beaten. ............ The Bianconeri kept that momentum up after they came out of the locker room. Even Gatti was feeling the momentum, and he started bombing forward with the ball multiple times in the first five minutes, feeding Yildiz for a shot that was blocked before deciding to go for one himself that was likewise interdicted. On the ensuing corner Kalulu flicked the ball off the inside of the far post, then watched as it bounced up the goal line before Carnesecchi clawed it away. Everyone connected with Juventus was waiting for referee Daniele Doveri to point to his watch and award the goal via goal-line technology, but no such intervention came as Pasalic charged upfield on the counter, facing up Locatelli one-on-one before firing well wide of the target. Replays soon showed a bare millimeter of the ball still touching the line. It was the second time this year Juve had been on the wrong end of such a call, and had Juventini wondering when a break would finally come their way. That break finally came four minutes later, when a long ball from Locatelli found McKennie in stride. Kalulu was out wide on the sideline and headed downfield with him, underlapping him perfectly and breaking into the channel before depositing it under Carnesecchi’s arm and into the net for his first goal as a Juventus player. Gasperini immediately sent Lazar Samardzic onto the field, and his dribbling ability caused the visitors problems as they began to drop back. ............ Retegui made his appearance with 25 minutes left to go as Atalanta tried to turn the screw. For a brief moment, it looked like Juve were finally managing to get the game flow back to an equilibrium, but that turned out to be fleeting, and the pressure Juve had been inviting for the majority of the half finally broke them. De Roon sent a cross in from the attacking left that Bellanova headed back across the grain. Retegui snuck behind Savona to power a header just past the hand of Di Gregorio. ............ The very last chance for either team fell to Juve at the beginning of stoppage time, when McKennie put Yildiz behind the defense in the left channel. Samuel Mbangula was running into the middle of the box and was completely unmarked, but Yildiz took the shot himself, beating Carnesecchi but bouncing his effort past the post. Doveri stopped the match after five minutes of added time to make draw No. 13 official. LE PAGELLE MICHELE DI GREGORIO - 7. Made a couple of really excellent saves both with the game tied and with Juve up. Could do nothing about Retegui’s goal. NICOLÒ SAVONA - 6. Had a pair of key passes and generally defended well. Retegui getting behind him to tie the score perhaps highlighted a bit of inexperience on his part, but it was also a very good play by Retegui to get around him. FEDERICO GATTI - 6. ............ PIERRE KALULU - 8. A fantastic all-around game. His goal was taken like a striker, and he had some gaudy defensive stats as well, with four tackles, five clearances, and a block. Signing him might’ve been the best transfer move in Europe this past summer. ANDREA CAMBIASO - 4.5. This was a really awful game from Cambiaso. He misplaced simple passes and gave the ball away deep in his own territory multiple times. The fact that he led the game with six tackles simply doesn’t mitigate how disastrous some of his touches were, especially in the first half. MANUEL LOCATELLI - 6. ............ KHEPHREN THURAM - 6.5. ............ KENAN YILDIZ - 5.5. Led the team with four dribbles and added a pair of tackles on defense, but I knocked him half a point for that last-minute shot when he ignored Mbangula there for a tap-in. WESTON McKENNIE - 7. Co-led the team with two key passes, including an excellent assist for Kalulu. His passing up front was excellent all night, helping set up attacks both directly and indirectly. NICO GONZÁLEZ - 6. ............ TEUN KOOPMEINERS - 5.5. Made a couple of good plays defensively to start attacking plays, but was often left to be the one to try to latch on to balls going through the defense and he simply didn’t have the pace to make anything out of them. His goal-line clearance in the second half was important. SUBS DOUGLAS LUIZ - 5.5. ............ SAMUEL MBANGULA - NR. Only touched the ball twice and was mostly trying to defend late—although he was perfectly placed to win the game in stoppage time if he’d gotten the ball. NICOLÒ FAGIOLI - NR. ............ MANAGER ANALYSIS There were some issues in the way the game was handled by Hugeux in the dugout. The team needed more fresh legs out there earlier, and keeping two subs in his pocket didn’t help. Tim Weah in particular should’ve been out on the field late in the game. His pace would’ve been invaluable to try and break out of the waves of pressure that Atalanta was creating. ............ The team still needs depth — things that the imminent additions of Alberto Costa and Randal Kolo Muani will help with, as well as the recovery of guys like Vlahovic and Conceição. But they are still shooting themselves in the foot every time they score a goal only do drop deep and try to see the game out from there. If Bremer were upright, it could maybe have been different, especially against Atalanta, but he’s not back until next season. Without the backstop of the league’s best defender, attack can often be the best form of defense, keeping the ball away from the opponent and pushing to score even more to put the game out of reach early. Until that happens, I fear Juve won’t be able to turn enough of these draws into wins. LOOKING AHEAD Juve will have a quick rematch with AC Milan on Saturday in what could turn out to be a top-four six-pointer for the top four. Then trips to Club Brugge and Napoli end a difficult two-week stretch of games. . Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2025/1/15/24343944/atalanta-juventus-2025-serie-a-matchday-19-final-score-result-match-recap-analysis

Juventus 1 - Atalanta 1: Initial reaction and random observations Juventus’ game in hand arrived Tuesday night, with a very difficult trip to Bergamo awaiting Thiago Motta’s squad amidst a run of six draws in the last seven games. ............ Juventus’ first away Serie A fixture of 2025 ended like so many of those in the final months of 2024. Juve got the lead, but they couldn’t hold onto it, as Matteo Retegui’s 78th-minute header just in front of a suddenly stranded Nicolo Savona saw Atalanta pull even for what eventually became a 1-1 draw. It was the 13th time Juventus have draw a game domestically this season and marked the 13th and 14th points Motta’s squad have dropped from a winning position — a trend that is becoming much more of a common occurrence as the calendar has flipped from 2024 to 2025. ............ Maybe because one the fact of it, a draw in Bergamo against an Atalanta team that has played so damn well for much of the season is a result you’ll take more often than not. It’s totally OK to be like “they’re good, coulda won, coulda lost, but we’ll take the point and head home.” Within a singular moment without thinking of anything else that Juventus has done this season, a draw in Bergamo isn’t bad — especially against this iteration of La Dea. ............ Juventus did a lot right against Atalanta on Tuesday night. I truly feel that way. They weathered the early Atalanta storm and didn’t concede a goal. It certainly wasn’t pretty at times, with individual errors and the inability to connect passes as Atalanta pressed like madmen and proved once again that Juve struggle against a team that presses high. But as the first half went on — and especially in the last 15 minutes or so before halftime — things turned for the better and Juventus were the more dangerous team. That improved play carried into a second half that was — holy crap — a whole lot more wide open than the opening 45 minutes. Juventus, as they have done lately, grabbed the opening goal thanks to Pierre Kalulu’s end-to-end run and equally impressive assist from Weston McKennie. It was just the third time all season that Atalanta conceded the opening goal. ............ Because of it, it’s the latest instance of this team doing some good things but then having one singular mistake coming back to haunt them and cost them points. Were Juve perfect in the second half outside of Savona losing Retegui in the box? Of course not. If not for a couple of big saves from Michele Di Gregorio and a Koopmeiners goal line clearance, this very much could have been Juve’s first Serie A loss of the season. But it wasn’t. It was a draw. Because they’re all draws at this point. At least it feels that way. ............ RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS If only Juventus could hold a lead. If only. If only, if only if only. Also would be nice if one of those goal line technology calls actually went Juventus’ way. That’s not the first time they’ve been literal millimeters away from a goal only for a wonder save to prevent them from scoring. It’s just another reason why this season just has awful luck on top of everything else. ............ Weston McKennie started Tuesday night’s game as the false 9. He then dropped back and played as the makeshift No. 10 as Teun Koopmeiners played further up the field. He also played out wide on the right in the second half, adding to the list of positions that he played over the course of his 90 minutes on the field. What I’m getting at is that dude has, even more than last season, shown he is maybe the best Swiss army knife in Serie A. Or at least one of the best. Dude just does whatever is asked of him and does it well much of the time. Atalanta supporters throwing stuff at Koopmeiners as he takes corners. Very nice. This game proved that Koopmeiners just can’t be a false nine going forward. Sure, he can do some of the tricks and some of the flicks to combine with his teammates, but he simply doesn’t have the speed like Nico Gonzalez does to try and hurt the opposing defense when there’s a ball hit over the top. Yet Juve kept trying it. If only Kenan Yildiz passed to Samuel Mbangula rather than going for all the glory and trying to get it past Carnesecchi at the far post. If only. ............ Kalulu was so good in defense. Just so good, man. I don’t even want to think about where this Juve team would be without considering there’s also no Bremer since early October. ............ Andrea Cambiaso wasn’t great against Atalanta, but at least it’s nice to know his ankle is good enough — with the help of some pain killers, of course — that he’s healthy enough to play a full 90 minutes again. Juventus shots: 17 Atalanta shots: 17 Juventus did finish with a better xG, so there’s that, I guess. Sure woulda been nice to see them score more than one, though. That could have meant a win. Or at least the chance to blow another lead. I don’t know at this point. So many Carnesecchi saves. Just so many of them. And only one goal. ............ . Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2025/1/15/24343770/juventus-atalanta-2025-serie-a-matchday-19-final-score-result-initial-reaction-random-observations

Thiago Motta: ‘Juventus cannot be happy with another draw’ Thiago Motta insists Juventus ‘cannot be happy with a draw, but it was a great performance’ in their wide open 1-1 against Atalanta. ............ Nico Gonzalez was again used as a False 9, although in reality Teun Koopmeiners seemed to be taking that role more during the match itself, even when jeered loudly by his former fans. ............ Thiago Motta had to watch from the stands following his red card for a touchline row with Paolo Vanoli in the Derby della Mole, but he attended the post-match media duties. ............ “We are certainly not happy with the result, but we recognise the effort and performance of these lads. I thank them for their efforts, they worked together and it was a great game,” ............ “These lads have been giving their all in every match and the good performances have been coming for a while now. Atalanta started with a different defence to what we were expecting, but we knew that we could not give them any reference points. It is no coincidence that Kalulu scored the goal, because everyone has to move and participate in the attacking approach. “Of course, we are not happy with the draw, because we always want to win, but it is my duty to publicly thank these players as well as in private for their efforts.” ............ It is yet another stalemate for Juventus, who are still unbeaten after 20 Serie A rounds, but also drew 13 of those matches and remain nine points adrift of Atalanta who are now in third place. “We always have the right spirit, it’s true that we have drawn a lot this season and are not happy about that, we cannot be happy with a draw, because these lads work every day to win, but the spirit was never lacking,” continued Thiago Motta. Incredibly, they are 15 points worse off than at this stage last season. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/thiago-motta-juventus-cannot-be-happy-draw/

Juventus player ratings v Atalanta – A mixed bag after another draw Michele di Gregorio – 7.5Di Gregorio was in outstanding form tonight, and his fine saves kept Juve in the match. Nicolo Savona – 6.5 ............ Federico Gatti – 7.0 Gatti was commanding at the back and made some surprising runs forward. Pierre Kalulu – 8.0Kalulu was Juventus’ best player on the night. He was solid at the back and got his deserved goal. Andrea Cambiaso – 7.0 ............ Khephren Thuram – 7.0 ............ Manuel Locatelli – 7.5 Another superb day at the office for Locatelli, who led from midfield and broke up many Atalanta attacks. Weston McKennie – 7.5 McKennie was back in a midfield role and shone. His run to set up Juventus’ goal was excellent. Teun Koopmeiners – 6.0 Koopmeiners didn’t do anything special, and Juve needs more in matches like this. Kenan Yildiz – 7.5 Yildiz was a handful for the Atalanta defence, often switching from left to right and causing them problems. Nicolas Gonzalez – 7.0 Gonzalez offers more in attack than Dusan Vlahovic, but he needs to hit the back of the net more often. Substitutes Douglas Luiz – 5.5 He came on, and Atalanta scored just three minutes later. Samuel Mbangula – 6.5 Mbangula almost set up Yildiz to score the match’s winner. Nicolo Fagioli – N/A ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-player-ratings-v-atalanta-a-mixed-bag-after-another-draw/

Draw specialist Juventus drops points from winning position against Atalanta Juventus played out a one-all draw against Atalanta this evening as they continue to drift further away from the top four. ............ The Bianconeri didn’t have much of a say in the first half until late, and their fans hoped things would change after the break. Both teams opened up the game at the start of the second period, with Kenan Yildiz nearly opening the scoring immediately after the restart, but Marco Carnesecchi made a good save. Moments later, Pierre Kalulu should have scored his first Juventus goal, but his shot ricocheted off the inside of the post, and Carnesecchi saved on the line. After Mario Pasalic missed a fine chance for Atalanta, Kalulu opened the scoring with a poacher’s finish. ............ La Dea piled on the pressure, and the Bianconeri cracked, allowing Mateo Retegui to score. Juve were stunned, but they could have taken the lead again had Carnesecchi not made a superb save to deny Manuel Locatelli. ............ Yildiz missed the next big chance, and Juve had to settle for another draw. . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/draw-specialist-juventus-drops-points-from-winning-position-against-atalanta/

Done deal: Juventus reach Kolo Muani agreement and book medicals for PSG striker Multiple outlets in both Italy and France are reporting that Juventus’s move for PSG forward Randal Kolo Muani is now a done deal, and that the France international is now due to fly out to Italy for a medical. ............ Kolo Muani has given the green light to a move to Juventus. The Bianconeri are expected to sign the 26-year-old on a straight loan deal for the remainder of the 2024-25 season, and will cover the player’s salary in full over that period. The player is expected to fly over to Turin and have his medicals with the Bianconeri on Wednesday. ............ In recent hours, Premier League side Tottenham had reportedly been pushing to bring him to North London, but the player did not even take the chance to sleep on it, instead deciding to give his approval to the Juventus move. Kolo Muani is expected to come in to provide cover and competition for Dusan Vlahovic in the Bianconeri attacking department. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/done-deal-juventus-reach-kolo-muani-agreement/

Here we go – Juventus deal in place for Randal Kolo Muani Juventus is set to complete a move for Randal Kolo Muani after reaching an agreement with the attacker and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The Bianconeri have been keen to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window, particularly after experiencing some injury setbacks and the loss of key players during the first half of the season. ............ The terms of the agreement involve a loan move for the French forward for the remainder of the current season. Juventus will cover the player’s salary during this period, and while there is no option or obligation for the move to become permanent, the deal includes provisions to potentially negotiate a permanent transfer at the end of the season, depending on how well Kolo Muani performs during his loan spell. ............ Kolo Muani has enjoyed a stellar period at Eintracht Frankfurt before moving to PSG, and his arrival in Turin is expected to add a much-needed dynamic to the Juventus attack. He will be hoping to return to his best form, having been a key figure in the Bundesliga, and replicate that success at Juventus. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/here-we-go-juventus-deal-in-place-for-randal-kolo-muani/