Socrates

Spalletti must have a say in any new signings Juventus make Juventus appear to have imposed players on their last two managers, with Igor Tudor reportedly having almost no say in the players they signed. This approach highlighted a wider structural issue at the club, where recruitment decisions seemed disconnected from the needs and preferences of the head coach. Tudor was not afforded the same level of authority or respect as Luciano Spalletti, largely because he was viewed internally as a temporary appointment rather than a long-term solution. ............ The Bianconeri have worked hard to ensure their squad is in strong condition, and there is no doubt that the group contains quality. However, assembling a talented squad without fully considering the manager’s tactical needs does not make sense. Football teams succeed when recruitment aligns with a clear vision, and that vision is usually defined by the coach responsible for results. Without alignment, even good players can look out of place. Systems suffer, balance is lost, and responsibility becomes blurred. Juventus have experienced this in recent seasons, where mismatches between personnel and approach have contributed to inconsistency. ............ Now that the club has a highly experienced coach at the helm, there is a clear opportunity to correct course. Juventus must act on Spalletti’s requirements and prioritise signing players he genuinely wants to work with. He has already made effective use of the squad he inherited in Turin, which strongly suggests he would achieve even better results with players selected to suit his ideas. Juve have built a fine squad, and Damien Comolli holds sweeping powers over transfer decisions. Even so, there must be greater respect for the manager’s demands. Only the head coach truly understands which profiles are missing and which additions can elevate the team to the next level. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/spalletti-must-have-a-say-in-any-new-signings-juventus-make/

How Spalletti stands out from Thiago Motta and Igor Tudor Igor Tudor replaced Thiago Motta in March, only for him to be replaced before the end of 2025. Juventus have now gone through three managers within the same calendar year, a situation that underlines the instability that has defined the club’s recent approach to leadership. Despite this turbulence, there is an expectation that the club will remain patient with Luciano Spalletti and allow him the time required to impose his methods. In modern football, managers are often judged solely on their most recent results, and Juventus are no exception. If wins do not arrive consistently, even the most respected coaches can find themselves under pressure. ............ As brutal as Juventus has been when it comes to hiring and firing managers, it has typically waited until situations became untenable before making decisive changes. Both Motta and Tudor were afforded time to reverse negative trends, and the club only acted once it became clear that results were unlikely to improve under their leadership. This pattern suggests that Juventus do not dismiss managers impulsively, but rather when confidence in recovery has clearly diminished. ............ In recent weeks, Juventus have performed well, and Spalletti has stood apart from his predecessors in one key area: experience. Under Motta or Tudor, a defeat often led to further dropped points, either through another loss or a draw. That inability to respond immediately proved costly. Spalletti, by contrast, knows how to manage setbacks. His experience allows him to steady the team and refocus quickly, ensuring that negative results do not spiral into prolonged downturns. This capacity to respond effectively has already made a noticeable difference. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/how-spalletti-stands-out-from-thiago-motta-and-igor-tudor/

Partono i gatti e arrivano i ricci ...... Giovanni li investe entrambi con l'automobile.

Juventus & Milan pondering swap deal involving two Italian internationals Circulating reports in the Italian media claim that Juventus defender Federico Gatti could join Milan next month, with Samuele Ricci heading in the opposite direction. ............ The Turin-based giants have been keeping tabs on Marseille’s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg as well as Sporting Club captain Morten Hjulmand. However, luring either Danish international in the middle of the season remains a daunting task. Therefore, Juventus could opt for a solution closer to home, pouncing on Milan’s desire to sign a new defender. Milan have enquired about Gatti’s availability, as Max Allegri would like to reunite with the defender who rose to prominence under his tutelage. Juventus expressed their willingness to negotiate a deal, but only if Ricci’s card is on the table. ............ Spalletti is said to be a keen admirer of Ricci, considering him a profile that Juventus are lacking at the moment. Milan value their midfielder at around €25 million, while Juventus rate Gatti at €30 million, meaning the Bianconeri could ask for a small cash adjustment to balance the deal. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-milan-swap-federico-gatti-samuele-ricci/

Three reasons why Juventus chose Marco Ottolini for sporting director role After months of speculation, Juventus have reportedly decided to appoint Marco Ottolini as their new sporting director. While the official confirmation has yet to arrive, several reliable sources in the Italian media expect it to ensue in the coming days. ............ Juventus chose Ottolini for at least three main reasons. First of all, the 45-year-old shares the same mentality as Comolli and the rest of the Bianconeri hierarchy. Ottolini’s idea is to build a team capable of competing straight away, but without jeopardising the future. He is also someone who values data-driven scouting, which is considered a key aspect in Comolli’s philosophy. Second, the Italian has already proven himself during his time at Genoa between 2022 and 2025, making shrewd low-cost signings, before selling them for major profits. ............ Finally, Ottolini knows the Juventus environment inside out, having already worked for the club between 2018 and 2022. The Gardone Val Trompia native initially served as a scout for three years. In 2021, the Bianconeri appointed him as Loan Player Manager. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/three-reasons-why-juventus-chose-marco-ottolini-for-sporting-director-role/

If Vlahovic leaves can Juventus afford a replacement? With Dusan Vlahovic expected to leave Juventus at the end of the season, there is a growing argument that the Bianconeri might be wiser to keep the Serbian striker rather than allow his departure. While an exit has seemed increasingly likely, the long-term consequences of losing him could prove damaging for the club. ............ Should Vlahovic reach an agreement elsewhere, Juventus would be forced back into the transfer market for a replacement. That task may be more complex than it appears. Luciano Spalletti does not seem convinced by Jonathan David, which further narrows the club’s options. Finding a top-level striker who can immediately lead the line is never straightforward, particularly given the financial constraints Juventus continue to face. Elite forwards command significant transfer fees and wages. Any striker capable of replacing Vlahovic’s output would likely demand a salary similar to, or even exceeding, what he is currently asking for. This creates a dilemma. Juventus have been reluctant to adjust their wage structure, yet without doing so, attracting a higher calibre striker becomes extremely difficult. ............ Allowing Vlahovic to leave could force Juventus into an uncomfortable position. Either they increase their salary scale to bring in a replacement of similar quality, or they settle for a less proven option, which risks weakening the squad. Neither scenario is ideal for a club with ambitions of returning to the top level. While Juventus should aim to sign a world-class striker at the end of the season, the reality is that most players who fit that description would fall outside their budget. If the club cannot meet Vlahovic’s demands, it is hard to see how they could afford someone demonstrably better. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/if-vlahovic-leaves-can-juventus-afford-a-replacement/

Yildiz sets two conditions for Juventus contract extension Kenan Yildiz wants to become the highest-paid player at Juventus and receive guarantees about the club’s big ambitions in the coming years. Juventus are expected to resume talks to extend Yildiz’s contract in the coming weeks, particularly now that the Bianconeri are set to hire a new sporting director, Marco Ottolini. ............ Yildiz’s contract runs out in June 2029, but the Turkish star has become a key player in Turin, so both parties feel that a new deal is necessary. ............ Yildiz currently earns €1.7m per season, but his target is to become the highest-paid player in the team with a salary of at least €6m, the same as Jonathan David. The Juventus offer is between €4m and €5m per season, plus bonuses tied to personal and team-related targets. There’s a gap of circa €1m between the club’s offer and the player’s demands, but Yildiz also wants guarantees regarding the club’s long-term project and ambitions. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/yildiz-2-conditions-juventus-new-contract/

Preview: Pisa vs Juventus - prediction, team news, lineups Putting the full stop on a troubled year, fallen giants Juventus aim to extend their revival when visiting Pisa on Saturday evening. Following two big wins in Serie A and another in Europe, Juve will try to sign off 2025 in style with their fourth straight success. Match preview Towards the end of another sub-par year, marked by more chaos from the boardroom down, Juventus have shown signs of rejuvenation under new coach Luciano Spalletti. While he initially made an uncertain start, the former Italy manager has averaged two points per game since taking the reins from Igor Tudor, whose rate was a more modest 1.50. For the second week running, Juve conquered a top-four rival last time out, following up their close-fought win in Bologna by beating Roma in Turin. Francisco Conceicao broke the deadlock before Lois Openda finally netted his first Serie A goal, as the Bianconeri saw off Spalletti's old club. A 2-1 win was their sixth from seven games - one more than throughout the previous 16, when they were plagued by persistent draws - including two vital victories in the Champions League. As a result, Juventus have inched closer to the knockout phase of Europe's top competition, while climbing the Serie A standings and reaching the Coppa Italia quarter-finals. Now occupying fifth place, they are just four points behind league leaders Inter Milan so cannot be entirely ruled out of the Scudetto race. Given such improvement, another victory is expected this weekend. Down the decades, Juve have never lost a top-flight game against Pisa, winning 10 of 14 meetings so far. ............ As Pisa have posted just one win and one goal at Arena Garibaldi since gaining promotion, overcoming Juventus will pose a particularly tough task. Pisa Serie A form: W D L L L D Juventus Serie A form: D D W L W W Juventus form (all competitions): W W L W W W Team News Juve's defensive crisis shows no signs of abating, as centre-back Daniele Rugani is now facing a spell on the sidelines, having just returned to action. Against Roma, the ex-Ajax man made his first appearance since early November, replacing Brazil international Bremer, who has been on the treatment table for much of this season and last. With Federico Gatti also unavailable, Spalletti has few fit options to fill his back three, albeit midfielder Teun Koopmeiners has been used there in recent weeks - the latter returns after serving a suspension last week. Once again, chief creator Kenan Yildiz is set to support a lone striker: with Dusan Vlahovic out of action, Openda should beat Jonathan David to selection. ............ Pisa possible starting lineup: Semper; Canestrelli, Caracciolo, Bonfanti; Toure, Vural, Piccinini, Aebischer, Angori; Tramoni, Meister Juventus possible starting lineup: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Conceicao, Yildiz; Openda We say: Pisa 0-2 Juventus In light of Juve's recent upturn and Pisa's dismal home record, surely the visitors will end 2025 with a win. Spalletti's side have found some sorely-missed cohesion, while their hosts look set for a short stay in Serie A. . Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/pisa/preview/pisa-vs-juventus-prediction-team-news-lineups_588388.html

Why Spalletti has earned a longer stay at Juventus already Juventus have already worked through three managers in 2025, yet none has brought the team closer to consistency than Luciano Spalletti. In a short space of time, he has provided a sense of direction and stability that has been missing for far too long, making a strong case for continuity beyond the current campaign. Spalletti has emerged as one of the most positive influences on the squad in recent years. Despite arriving during a turbulent period, he has quickly implemented structure and clarity, allowing the players to perform with greater confidence. ............ In order to demonstrate his ability to guide the team back towards success, Spalletti accepted a short-term contract at the Allianz Stadium that runs until the end of the season. That decision was seen by many as a gamble, both for the club and the manager, but it has so far paid dividends. There have been persistent rumours that Antonio Conte remains Juventus’s ideal candidate for the role, and the Bianconeri are known to prioritise having a high-profile coach in charge. However, such speculation should not overshadow what is already being achieved. Spalletti has shown himself to be a reliable and stabilising appointment, something the club has lacked amid constant leadership changes. ............ Juventus remain one of the most closely followed clubs in the game, and recent performances suggest genuine signs of progress. The team looks more organised, more competitive and better aligned with a clear footballing identity. To sustain that improvement, Juventus must move away from the hire-and-fire approach that has defined recent seasons. Backing Spalletti on a long-term basis would signal a commitment to stability and trust in a project that is beginning to take shape. In just a few weeks, Spalletti has earned the respect and confidence of his players. Dismissing him at the end of the season in favour of another change would risk undoing that progress. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/why-spalletti-has-earned-a-longer-stay-at-juventus-already/

Milan add Juventus defender Gatti and ex-Inter star Skriniar to January shopping list Milan are exploring multiple defensive options ahead of the January transfer window as Massimiliano Allegri looks to add experience and depth at the back. One of the names under consideration is Federico Gatti, a profile Allegri knows well from their time together at Juventus. The 27-year-old had already turned down a move to Napoli last summer, but his situation in Turin is complicated by injury and by Juventus’ current defensive shortage. ............ Juventus are operating in near-constant emergency at centre-back, with Daniele Rugani sidelined for several weeks and the club reluctant to weaken an already stretched department. As a result, a January move for Gatti, particularly to a direct rival in the race for the top four, appears highly unlikely. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/milan-add-juventus-defender-gatti-skriniar/

Why Juventus should wait until the summer to make signings Juventus are among the clubs being tipped to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window, yet such a move may not necessarily be the right decision at this stage of the season. While there is an acceptance that the Bianconeri lack quality in certain areas of the squad, rushing into the market could ultimately prove counterproductive. The club are keen to support Luciano Spalletti as he looks to guide the team through the second half of the campaign. ............ Over the past few months, Spalletti has worked closely with the players at his disposal and has gradually instilled his ideas. Juventus are now showing signs of improvement, with performances becoming more cohesive and consistent. The team are playing better football, and the manager has managed to extract strong displays from individuals who previously struggled for form. This improvement suggests that the current group are beginning to fully understand what is being asked of them. Continuity can be vital during this phase, as players continue to adapt to tactical demands and build confidence within the system. Allowing Spalletti to keep refining this group may be the most sensible course of action. ............ While the temptation to invest in new players is understandable, January signings often face challenges. New arrivals require time to settle, both tactically and mentally, and may struggle to become influential before the season concludes. Introducing multiple players midway through a campaign can also upset the balance that has been carefully developed. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/opinion-why-juventus-should-wait-until-the-summer-to-make-signings/

The players that Spalletti should replace if he stays next season When a manager arrives at a club midway through a season, there is usually little opportunity to make significant changes to the squad they inherit. As a result, they must extract the best possible performances from the players already at their disposal. This has been the situation facing Luciano Spalletti since taking charge of Juventus, where he has focused on maximising results with the existing group. ............ Manuel Locatelli is one name that continues to raise questions. Spalletti has never been an admirer of the midfielder and rarely selected him for the Italy national team in the past. Despite currently wearing the captain’s armband at Juventus, Locatelli may not feature prominently in Spalletti’s plans once reinforcements become possible. A summer change in midfield leadership would not come as a surprise. Jonathan David is another player whose position appears vulnerable. Even during periods when Dusan Vlahovic has been unavailable, David has struggled to convince Spalletti of his suitability. His performances have failed to align with the manager’s tactical preferences, and a move for a striker better suited to Spalletti’s style seems likely at the end of the campaign. ............ Joao Mario’s time at Juventus has been puzzling for many supporters. Since his arrival, he has been unable to establish himself or earn the trust of the manager. His limited impact suggests he could be among the first to be moved on when squad changes are permitted. Dusan Vlahovic presents a different challenge. Spalletti would prefer to keep the striker, but with his contract nearing its end, Juventus may be forced to plan for life without him. Should he depart, the club will need to secure a world-class replacement to maintain attacking strength. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/opinion-the-players-that-spalletti-should-replace-if-he-stays-next-season/

Spalletti has done a good job shielding Kenan Yildiz Kenan Yildiz has arguably been the standout performer for Juventus over the last few months, to the point where the club has been accused of placing too much reliance on him. The Turkiye international has emerged as a central figure in the team, drawing both praise and concern for the responsibility placed on his shoulders at such an important stage of his career. ............ Yildiz has enjoyed the prominence that has followed his rise, thriving under the spotlight across recent seasons. His technical quality and consistency have made him a natural focal point, leading to warnings that Juventus may be leaning too heavily on his contributions. Several managers have attempted to build their projects around him, reinforcing the perception that he is indispensable to the team. While many observers have welcomed this approach, believing it reflects trust in his ability, it has also sparked debate about balance within the squad. Over-reliance on one player can expose structural weaknesses, particularly during demanding periods of the season. ............ Luciano Spalletti, however, has adopted a more measured strategy. Although he continues to trust Yildiz with regular minutes and responsibility, Juventus have moved away from treating him as the sole attacking solution. Instead, there has been a clear effort to distribute responsibility more evenly across the squad. For the first time in a while, Yildiz is operating under reduced pressure, with other attackers being given opportunities to contribute. This shift has resulted in a more balanced team, one that recognises the importance of collective input rather than individual heroics. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/spalletti-has-done-a-good-job-shielding-kenan-yildiz/

Juventus owner Elkann sends message to the team during Christmas dinner Juventus owner John Elkann gave a speech during the team’s Christmas dinner on Tuesday: ‘You are becoming an increasingly strong group.’ The Bianconeri have won six games from the last seven and beat direct rivals Bologna and Roma in the last two Serie A rounds. On Tuesday night, the players, staff members and the directors met at the J-Museum, just around the corner from the Allianz Stadium, for their Christmas dinner. ............ “It’s nice to be here together, all part of a big family,” Elkann said, according to Italian media. “We are here in our museum that celebrates the Juventus history. It’s important for you to know it, because you are now part of it. “You are becoming an increasingly strong group and team, and you are all crucial in helping Juventus win again,” Elkann continued. “Victory is the expression of what you do every day together, and for this I want to thank the staff, the team, the captain, the coach, all the directors and your families who are here.” ............ Only a few days ago, Elkann had rejected an offer from minority shareholders Tether to acquire a majority stake in Juventus. Elkann’s family has owned the Bianconeri for over 100 years, and the strong sense of belonging is one of the reasons why the majority shareholders, Exor, are unwilling to sell the club. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-owner-elkann-message-team-christmas/

Juventus draft shortlist as goalkeeper Perin pushes for Genoa switch Mattia Perin’s future at Juventus is increasingly uncertain as the goalkeeper pushes for a return to Genoa in search of regular playing time. While the 33-year-old remains a respected figure inside the Juventus dressing room, his role behind Michele Di Gregorio has limited his minutes, prompting him to explore an exit in the January window. ............ Juventus are aware of the situation and, despite previously hoping to keep the former Italy international, have accepted his stance. Discussions with Genoa are already underway, although the Bianconeri are not looking solely at reducing their wage bill. The club also want a transfer fee as part of any agreement. ............ With Perin potentially on the move, Juventus have begun assessing alternative options to bolster their goalkeeping department. Several names are under consideration, including Livakovic, Mandas and Leali, as the club draw up a shortlist to cover a possible departure. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-perin-genoa-shortlist-switch/

Buon Natale fratelli e sorelle

Bremer é determinante per la Juventus. Secondo le statistiche, la media-punti con Bremer in campo é 2,42 e solo 1,5 quando Bremer non é disponibile.

How Bremer has impacted Juventus results this season Gleison Bremer has established himself as one of the most important players at Juventus, and there is a strong argument that he is currently their most influential individual. The Brazilian defender recently returned from injury in Juventus’ victory over AS Roma, a result that immediately underlined his value to the team. His presence brought stability and authority to the back line, qualities that have often been missing during his absence. ............ The importance of Bremer is clearly reflected in Juventus’ results this season. The team have not lost any of the seven matches he has started, highlighting just how significant his influence has been. His ability to organise the defence, win duels, and maintain composure under pressure has given the side a strong foundation to build from in matches. In contrast, Juventus have struggled far more without him. When Bremer is absent, the team have suffered four defeats, demonstrating a noticeable drop in stability and consistency. His return against Roma not only boosted confidence but also reinforced the belief that Juventus are a stronger and more reliable team with him on the pitch. ............ The statistical difference with and without Bremer is striking. Juventus average 2.42 points per game when he plays, compared to just 1.5 points per game when he is unavailable. These figures clearly show the scale of his impact and explain why he is regarded as a key figure within the squad. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/how-bremer-has-impacted-juventus-results-this-season/

Gigi Maifredi says Juventus has the strongest attack in the league Despite failing to sell Dusan Vlahovic in the summer, Juventus still managed to strengthen their forward line by signing Lois Openda and Jonathan David, creating an attack that many rival clubs would admire. On paper, the additions gave Juventus significant depth and quality in the final third, raising expectations ahead of the new season. However, as the campaign has progressed, those expectations have not yet been fully met. ............ There is confidence within the club that improvement will continue under Luciano Spalletti. The head coach is widely regarded as doing a strong job since taking charge, and he appears to be gradually getting more out of the squad. Juventus have shown better balance in their performances in recent weeks, with a clearer structure and greater cohesion between defence, midfield, and attack. Spalletti’s influence has helped Juventus compete more effectively, even when individual players have not been at their best. The team have begun to show resilience and organisation, qualities that are essential as the season enters a more demanding phase. While challenges remain, the squad has the experience and quality required to handle them. ............ One area that continues to attract criticism is the attack, with strikers yet to deliver the expected goal return. However, former coach Gigi Maifredi has offered a different perspective. He said, “Juve have incredible human and technical potential. They have the strongest attack in the league. Without Vlahovic, it’s clear that something is missing, but the players Juve have acquired are important. Their lack of performance depends on many factors, but results lead to improvement. Bremer’s recovery has made this team important, as it was on paper.” ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/gigi-maifredi-says-juventus-has-the-strongest-attack-in-the-league/

Bonucci predicts if Juventus can win the Scudetto Juventus have shown encouraging form in recent weeks, and the Bianconeri are likely closer to the top of the Serie A table than they might publicly admit. Despite past struggles, the team under Luciano Spalletti have improved significantly, demonstrating a renewed focus and consistency that had been lacking in previous months. The players at the Allianz Stadium are aware that no club can afford to rest on its laurels, and maintaining intensity and concentration in each match remains essential. Spalletti’s impact has been particularly noticeable in how Juventus approaches games. The team now works diligently throughout matches, often securing results they might have lost in earlier campaigns. ............ While Napoli and Inter Milan are widely regarded as the primary contenders for the Scudetto this season, Juventus’ resurgence means they cannot be discounted entirely. The consistency they have shown in recent weeks positions them as a team capable of competing at the highest level. Their improved performances suggest that, with continued focus, they could remain in the title conversation as the season progresses. Former Juventus captain Leonardo Bonucci has commented on the club’s prospects. He said, “Juventus, the Scudetto winners? Well, with Spalletti, they’re starting to do what they’re supposed to do, which is win games, but Napoli, Inter, and Milan are proving to be great teams. It’ll be a great championship.” ............ Bonucci’s remarks highlight both the optimism within the squad and the recognition of the strength of their rivals. Juventus have found a level of stability under Spalletti that allows it to challenge effectively, but the competition at the top remains fierce. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/bonucci-predicts-if-juventus-can-win-the-scudetto/

Capello analyses Juventus, Inter, Milan, Napoli and Roma Scudetto chances Fabio Capello believes that it is a genuine five-horse race for the Serie A title this season, but believes that all of Juventus, Inter, Milan, Napoli and Roma have room for improvement if they are to claim the 2025-26 Scudetto. ............ Four points separates five teams at the top of the Serie A standings heading into the Christmas period. It’s an entertaining and satisfying table for the neutral, with Inter on 33 points, Milan on 32, Napoli on 31, Roma on 30 and Juventus on 29. ............ Capello said: “I don’t see anyone breaking away at the moment. They all score points, they all occasionally slow down. Milan and Roma were in the lead, now Inter and Napoli are back up there, Juve are seriously getting back into the frame.” Does he see Juventus as worthy title challengers this season? “Their season certainly isn’t over. They’ve got a run of forms that could bring them 12 points in their next few games,” he said. ............ And on Spalletti, Capello said: “He’s found the right players to play in many positions. He’s rediscovered that determination and aggressiveness that had disappeared. And Juve are one of the few Italian sides who can take players on and create a numerical superiority: Yildiz, Conceicao, Zhegrova, they often put rivals in trouble.” Does he feel that Juventus are genuine Scudetto contenders this season? “Juve are there, they could make up the gap, and they still have direct clashes left to play,” Capello answered. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/capello-analyses-2025-26-scudetto-chances/

Who is Marco Ottolini? Juventus agreement, previous signings and biggest sales Monday’s reports claim that Genoa’s Marco Ottolini has an agreement to take over as the new sporting director at Juventus, but who is the Grifone executive, where has he worked previously, and who have been his biggest signings to date? Ottolini is a 45-year-old scout turned sporting director, originally from Brescia. He had a brief career as a player, joining Brescia as a youth player in 1993, and had a couple of years in the first team until 2002. ............ From 2018, Ottolini began his first stint with Juventus. He held several roles with the Bianconeri the first time around, initially as a scout, before being promoted to the role of loans manager in 2021. After a year managing the on-loan Juventus players, Ottolini earned his first job as a sporting director, joining Genoa at the start of the 2022-23 season. ............ Ottolini has already turned a profit on a number of his Genoa signings, including the likes of Mateo Retegui, Radu Dragusin, Koni De Winter, Albert Gudmundsson and Josep Martinez. ............ . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/who-is-ottolini-juventus-links-past-signings/

Why Openda could be dropped from Juventus lineup against Pisa Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti could decide to omit Lois Openda from the starting lineup against Pisa, despite his recent exploits. When the Tuscan manager first arrived in Turin, he immediately identified Dusan Vlahovic as his first choice for the centre-forward role. But with the Serbian out with an injury until the spring, Openda and Jonathan David have been vying for a starting berth. ............ When Vlahovic was first ruled out of action, Spalletti initially handed the reins to David. However, Openda enjoyed an impactful cameo at the Renato Dall’Ara nine days ago, forcing Torbjorn Heggem to commit a foul that earned him a red card. Therefore, the manager decided to entrust the former RB Leipzig man with a starting role against Roma last weekend, and the latter delivered the goods once more. Aside from poaching Juve’s second goal, his pace and movement caused a sea of troubles for the Giallorossi defenders. And yet, Spalletti could drop Openda in favour of David in the last Juventus game of the year. ............ The 66-year-old had already highlighted the difference between his two available strikers. While Openda can be deadly against attacking-minded clubs that leave spaces at the back, David could prove more useful against compact defences, which is what Juventus can expect when they are hosted by Alberto Gilardino’s side this Saturday. So while the Canadian should get the nod from the start, the Belgian could enter the pitch in the final 30 minutes when the opposition’s defensive lines could become more stretched out. ............ . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/why-openda-could-be-dropped-from-juventus-lineup-against-pisa/

McKennie reveals what makes Spalletti special, ‘hopes’ to stay at Juventus Versatile Juventus star Weston McKennie highlighted the traits that make Luciano Spalletti an exceptional head coach. Following a poor start to the campaign under Igor Tudor, the Bianconeri are gradually beginning to find their feet under the Tuscan manager. They have now reduced the deficit between them and the Champions League zone to a single point after crucial wins over Bologna and Roma. ............ “The victory over Roma is very important for Juventus, for us, for the fans, and for the coach,” said McKennie while chatting with members of the media. “There were some difficult moments, but now we’ve found our identity.” “Spalletti is a great coach; he teaches us how to play and knows how to train players. I really like him. Let’s hope we get the three points against Pisa too.” “He pays attention to the little things, the details, the things that normally go unnoticed. He speaks individually with each player. In training, he always asks everyone to make great sacrifices.” ............ “My favourite role? Being on the pitch (laughs). I like playing in the middle, as a number 8. “I’m someone who wants to spread happiness and make my teammates smile, but on the pitch, I do my job by running and making sacrifices.” ............ “I was talking about it with my dad before and said, ‘Oh my God, I’ve been here for almost six years!’ Turin is a very important part of my life, so I want to do everything I can for the people who live here.” “I’m very happy to make my 200 appearances for the club, it’s an important moment for my family and for the people in America, but above all for me. It’s difficult to be here and make 200 appearances, but I did it, thank goodness! “I’ll leave these matters to my agent. He’ll let me know how it goes, but we hope to stay here. We’ll see.” . Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/mckennie-reveals-what-makes-spalletti-special-hopes-to-stay-at-juventus/

Ottolini has verbal agreement to be new Juventus director of sport Multiple sources this evening are confirming that Juventus reached a verbal agreement with Marco Ottolini to be their new director of sport. It is a name that had been mentioned numerous times in recent months, above all because this represents a return to Turin. ............ He already worked for the club from 2018 to 2022, in charge of the players who were out on loan. The 45-year-old left for a new experience at Genoa, which ran from 2022 to the end of October 2025, when he reached an agreement for a mutual termination of the contract. ............ Ottolini had plenty of other proposals, including from outside of Italy, and wanted to take time to make the best decision for his future. He has now shaken hands with Juventus, reaching a verbal agreement to become their new director of sport. . Read more -> https://football-italia.net/report-ottolini-has-verbal-agreement-juventus/