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Socrates

JUVENTUS SEASON 2025-2026

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Massimo Brambilla gives his reaction to Juventus beating Udinese

175322501-5226f121-5134-4e7a-8785-5deeb17d3cfa.jpg

 

 

 

Juventus’ interim manager, Massimo Brambilla, expressed his delight after guiding the Bianconeri to a much-needed victory over Udinese this evening. The result marked an important moment for the club, who had been enduring a difficult spell before this fixture. Having stepped in following the dismissal of Igor Tudor, Brambilla oversaw a performance that restored both belief and confidence among the players. ............

 

Juventus entered the encounter under pressure to end their winless streak, which had stretched to eight matches before this fixture. The players responded impressively, producing an energetic display that ultimately secured a 3-1 victory. Goals from Dusan Vlahovic, Federico Gatti and Kenan Yildiz sealed the result, rewarding Brambilla’s calm and encouraging approach.

 

The team’s strong start was crucial in setting the tone for the evening. Despite conceding late in the first half, Juventus regrouped effectively and showed greater composure after the interval. The win was not only significant for the points gained but also for the psychological lift it provided, demonstrating that the squad remains united and capable of responding positively to adversity. ............

 

Speaking after the match, Brambilla shared his thoughts on managing the first team and the steps he took to prepare for the occasion. He said:

 

“I trained, I spent two days with the team. On Monday morning I had training with the Under-23s, and then I came over here in the afternoon. I tried to instill confidence and reassure the lads, but they’re strong, experienced players. They know what they have to do, and I think they deserved the win today with a great performance. Then again, that first-half goal could have ruined the evening, because conceding a goal in injury time can complicate things. Instead, we entered the second half with confidence and courage, and I don’t think there’s anything to complain about the victory.” ............

.

Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/massimo-brambilla-gives-his-reaction-to-juventus-beating-udinese/

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Juventus 3 - Udinese 1: Initial reaction and random observations

094325347-c25601db-64f1-4943-9ae4-fc7caeee43a5.jpg

 

 

 

Even if it’s just going to be for one game, Massimo Brambilla can say he did something that Igor Tudor wasn’t able to do for the better part of the last two months.

 

That is, ya know, actually get Juventus over the finish line and win a game.

 

For the first time since Sept. 13, Juve are on the right side of a final score. No, seriously. This isn’t some kind of crazy or satire kind of write-up with Halloween on the horizon later this week. Juventus, thanks to second-half goals from Federico Gatti and Kenan Yildiz, turned what could have been another leg in this frustrating run of form that cost Tudor his job after Udinese tied things up right before the half into a 3-1 win on a rainy Wednesday night at the Allianz Stadium that handed the Bianconeri their first win in 40 days. A whole hell of a lot has happened between then and now — an eight-game winless run, four straight games without a goal for the first time since 1991, a manager getting fired. But all of that is now in the past tense because Juventus finally won a game again. ............

 

That’s the crazy thing about how all of this has gone down. Even with Juventus not winning a Serie A fixture in over a month, they aren’t totally detached from the race for the top four. They aren’t — and this win just proves that. Yes, of course, Luciano Spalletti has his work cut out for him if he actually wants to get Juventus into the top four and keep them there the rest of the 2025-26 season, but they’re most certainly in the mix even with everything that happened in the final six weeks of Tudor’s short run as manager.

 

But when it comes to how things went after Udinese tied things up right before the half, Juventus’ second-half response to it was about as good as you could have hoped for a squad that is clearly shaken on the confidence front. After Udinese’s early push to try and get ahead right out of the break, Juventus pretty much owned the rest of the second half. Juve outshot Udinese a whopping 17-4 over the course of the second half, and got a deserved lead with Gatti’s header that certainly felt like a weight lifted off a lot of shoulders, including the man who scored it.

 

Add in Yildiz’s penalty kick — which he did a great job to initially win after losing the ball in the penalty area just a couple of seconds earlier — and Juventus scored as many goals in Wednesday night’s game as they did in the previous six games combined. Which, I don’t know about everybody else, felt like a weight off this team’s shoulders on top of the simple fact of winning. ............

 

Just like he did with the Next Gen squad upon his return last season, Brambilla must have just sprinkled a little bit of that magic dust he has and gotten things back to their winning ways. At least for one night — which, considering Spalletti is pretty much a press release away from being Juve’s new manager, is probably all the Brambilla magic the senior squad is going to get the rest of this season.

 

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

  • But hey, we can say this: Juventus are undefeated with Massimo Brambilla as their manager. Take that, haters.
  • Then again, this was the same team that was booed off the field at halftime. That felt rather appropriate for these current Juventus times and how they went into the half having just given up the lead. ............
  • This is the part of the post in which we show some praise to Dusan Vlahovic, who scored the first of Juventus’ two penalty kicks on the night. It was a cool finish from a guy who has been pretty good from the spot in recent attempts, and was the beginning of an overall pretty good night or the Juve No. 9. It’s somewhat encouraging to see Vlahovic out there working in a relentless kind of way despite everything else going on at the club these days. Of course, he’s fighting for his next contract wherever that may be, but he’s got the right kind of on-field spirit and work rate lately that hopefully can be a little more contagious on this squad. ............
  • I just want to repeat that Yildiz winning that ball back that led to the second penalty knowing full well he’s playing a full 90 minutes up to that point and has dealt with a minor knee issue in recent days is just so refreshing to see. He’s the star of this team, yet there he is making the play that puts the game away.
  • Plus, you know, then stepping up to the penalty spot and smashing the PK home. That had to feel good.
  • It’s the year 2025 and Filip Kostic has just finished as one of Juventus’ highest-rated players on Sofascore. I’m being 10000000% serious, folks. You can see it for yourself.
  • In Kostic’s defense, he did play well. This wasn’t a classic game where he just piles up empty stats that mask what was an average performance. The man had six key passes against Udinese. SIX! ............
  • Federico Gatti’s form ever since he may or may not have gotten a little more hair on the top of his head — pretty good! Keep it that way, Cats. Juve need you with Bremer still out a few more weeks. ............
  • It’s Brambilla mania. Catch it while you can.
  • Was that Andrea Cambiaso’s best game in months? I ask because it kinda felt that way.
  • Juventus had 25 shots! I can’t get over this. A 3-1 final score could have been much, much more than that if not for some of those saves Okoye made in goal for Udinese.
  • That save at the near post early in the second half by Michele Di Gregorio turned out to be rather important, didn’t it? ............
  • Now we wait for the official Spalletti announcement and the pictures of him on the training field at Continassa for the first time. Gonna be an interesting first few weeks for Juve’s new coach.

Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/33287/juventus-udinese-2025-serie-a-matchday-9-final-score-result-initial-reaction-random-observations

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Juventus player ratings vs Udinese: Gatti saves the day

Federico Gatti celebrating his goal

 

 

 

In what could be his solitary match in charge, Massimo Brambilla steered Juventus back to winning ways, as they overcame a resilient Udinese side at the Allianz Stadium. ............

 

Nevertheless, the Bianconeri were determined to end their eight-match winless run that cost Igor Tudor his job, and they eventually retook the lead through Federico Gatti, while Kenan Yildiz confirmed the victory with a late penalty.

 

So here are are player ratings for Juventus, who earned an important 3-1 win over Udinese while awaiting Luciano Spalletti’s arrival.

Juventus (3-4-1-2)

Michele Di Gregorio – 6

 ............

Pierre Kalulu – 6.5

The Frenchman looked much more at ease in his natural position at the back, but still made occasional attacking forays, and tested Okeye with a powerful shot.

Federico Gatti – 7.5

A glorious evening for the Italian defender who scored the all-important second Juventus goal with a powerful header. He was also a rock at the back, making several key interventions.

Lloyd Kelly – 6

 ............

Andrea Cambiaso – 6.5

The versatile wing-back initially struggled to deliver good balls to the box, but ended up providing a sublime assist for Gatti’s goal.

Weston McKennie – 7

 ............

Manuel Locatelli – 6

 ............

Filip Kostic – 6

The Serbian’s return to the starting lineup was largely fruitful, posing a menacing presence down the left flank. He also denied Arthur Atta on a few occasions, but perhaps should have done better to close down Zaniolo on the equaliser.

Kenan Yildiz – 7.5

The Turkish youngster is the beating heart of this Juventus side, and Brambilla placed him in a role that allowed him to express his astounding potential. Set up Vlahovic on a few occasions, and tested Okeye with a dangerous shot, before winning and converting a late spot-kick.

Loic Openda – 6

 ............

Dusan Vlahovic – 7

The former Fiorentina star looked like a man possessed. Scored a spot-kick he won himself, and could have added a couple more, but was impeded by his weaker right foot. Nevertheless, his grit and determination to win back possession were a refreshing sight.

Substitutes

Jonathan David – N/A

Teun Koopmeiners – N/A

Daniele Rugani – N/A

.

Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-player-ratings-vs-udinese-gatti-saves-the-day/

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Why Elkann decided to address Juventus players in locker room after Udinese win

John Elkann attending Hungary F1 Grand Prix

 

 

 

Juventus majority owner, John Elkann, surprised the players by showing up in the dressing room following Wednesday’s victory over Udinese.

 

The Serie A giants sacked Igor Tudor on Monday after failing to claim a win in eight matches, temporarily handing the reins to Juventus Next Gen boss Massimo Brambilla while awaiting Luciano Spalletti’s arrival. ............

 

During the contest, the cameras picked up Elkann, who was in the stands alongside his teenage son, Oceano. The patron’s presence surely hasn’t gone unnoticed, as he rarely attends Juventus matches.

 

According to multiple reports in the Italian press, the 49-year-old didn’t only watch the action unfold from afar, but also decided to have a word with the Juventus players in the locker-room after the contest.

 

Elkann took the opportunity to congratulate the player for their significantly improved displayed against Udinese.

 

Nevertheless, the Exor CEO was also keen to emphasise the importance and delicacy of this period. With two managers sacked within the same calendar year, the players must shoulder the burden from now on. ............

 

This was the message that Elkann wanted to convey to the squad, while urging them to seize the opportunity of Spalletti’s arrival to turn the page and usher in a new era.

 

The 66-year-old’s first match in charge will be away to the resilient Cremonese on Saturday. ............

.

Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/elkann-address-juventus-players-locker-room-udinese/

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Preview:Cremonese vs Juventus - prediction, team news, lineups

Cremonese vs Juventus Prediction, Odds & Insights – Serie A (01/11/2025)

 

 

 

Amid more chaos at Italy’s most successful club, Juventus finally ended their long winless run in midweek, so they will seek back-to-back wins when visiting Cremonese for Serie A’s Saturday night contest.

 

The hosts also won on Wednesday, keeping themselves just one point behind crisis club Juve, who are set to name their new head coach.

Match preview

Taking drastic action to halt a worrying slide down the standings, Juventus relieved Igor Tudor of his duties earlier this week, following eight games without a win.

 

For the first time ever, the Turin club have changed managers mid-season in three consecutive years, and ex-Italy boss Luciano Spalletti will take up the significant challenge of reviving La Vecchia Signora.

 

Interim coach Massimo Brambilla did his part by overseeing a long-awaited victory on Wednesday, when Dusan Vlahovic scored an early penalty to end Juve's long goal drought and put them ahead against Udinese. ............

 

Fired by his national team earlier this year, the vastly experienced Spalletti is set to inherit a team sitting seventh after nine matches, and with only two points from three games in the Champions League.

 

One of his main tasks will be to improve Juve’s dismal away form in Serie A, after collecting just four points on the road so far.

 

First up is a trip to Stadio Zini, where the Bianconeri won 1-0 on their most recent visit, back in May 2023. ............

 

Now, Cremonese return home to play Juve, having gone unbeaten in four league games at the Zini this season, posting one win and three draws.

 

Cremonese Serie A form:

D D L D D W

 

Juventus Serie A form:

D D D L L W

 

Juventus form (all competitions):

D D L L L W

 

Team News

It remains to be seen whether Spalletti will immediately ditch Tudor’s trademark three-man defence, which Brambilla also employed, or if the new Juventus boss opts for his favoured 4-3-3 formation.

 

South American defensive duo Bremer and Juan Cabal are still sidelined by injury, alongside long-term absentee Arkadiusz Milik, who scored the only goal on Juve’s last trip to Cremona.

 

Khephren Thuram is a doubt after being withdrawn from the squad to play Udinese, so Weston McKennie could keep his place in midfield.

 

Vlahovic has been in and out of the starting XI but has still scored five times across all competitions, including his 90th Serie A goal on Wednesday; meanwhile, Bonazzoli has been the main man for Cremonese. ............

 

 

Cremonese possible starting lineup:

Audero; Terracciano, Baschirotto, Bianchetti; Zerbin, Payero, Bondo, Vandeputte, Pezzella; Bonazzoli, Vardy

 

Juventus possible starting lineup:

Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Kelly, Cambiaso; McKennie, Locatelli, Koopmeiners; Conceicao, Vlahovic, Yildiz

 

We say: Cremonese 1-2 Juventus 

 

Boosted by finally producing a win - and now aiming to impress their new manager - Juventus should end Cremonese's unbeaten home record in Serie A.

The hosts pose a threat in the final third and should score, but Juve have sufficient firepower to get the job done one way or another. 

.

Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/cremonese/preview/cremonese-vs-juventus-prediction-team-news-lineups_584723.html

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Spalletti expected not to change Juventus system on his debut

DORTMUND, GERMANY - MARCH 23: Luciano Spalletti, head coach of Italy and Salvatore Russo Technical Assistant of Italy during the UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal Leg Two match between Germany and Italy at Football Stadium Dortmund on March 23, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

 

 

 

Multiple sources in Italy claim that Luciano Spalletti is expected not to change Juventus’ system on his debut against Cremonese tomorrow, picking a three-man defence. ............

 

The Italian tactician will take charge of his first training session at Continassa today, ahead of his unveiling press conference at 12:00 p.m. local time.

 

Spalletti will initially rely on a three-man defence, the same system Juventus have been using since March under Igor Tudor.

 

Lack of time to prepare for the Cremonese match means Spalletti will initially stick to the old tactics, but the Tuscan tactician is also expected to bring changes going forward, reintroducing a four-man defence. ............

 

After Saturday’s game against Cremonese, Juventus will host Sporting CP in the Champions League Round 4 next week. ............

.

Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-expected-not-change-juventus-system/

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Luciano Spalletti has confirmed his first Juventus squad following his appointment as head coach on Thursday, and has been forced to leave out two key first-team players in Kenan Yildiz and Lloyd Kelly. ............

 

Spalletti, who signed his contracts on Thursday and got to work in Continassa on Friday, will have an away trip against Cremonese on Saturday evening to begin his Bianconeri tenure. ............

 

Spalletti has named a squad of 22 travelling players for the Cremonese match, but has left star attacker Yildiz at home.

 

The Turkish gem has recently been suffering with patellar tendinopathy, sometimes referred to as jumper’s knee in his left leg. This is effectively an inflammation that affects the tendon beneath the kneecap. He has been wearing a bandage around the affected knee in all of his recent Old Lady outings. ............

 

Yildiz will be left at home on this occasion so that he can rest his knee.

 

There is less cause for concern regarding centre-back Kelly, who has reportedly been suffering with back pain and is not expected to be sidelined for an extended period.

 

There is a boost for the Juventus midfield department, though, as Khephren Thuram, who missed the 3-1 win over Udinese, has returned and is in contention to feature. ............

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Journalist reveals what Juventus needs to do to reach Napoli’s level

Afbeelding

 

 

Juventus are set to begin a new chapter under the leadership of Luciano Spalletti, who has taken over as the club’s latest manager this season. The Bianconeri, long regarded as one of Italy’s premier football institutions, continue to strive to maintain their elite status within both domestic and European competitions. However, despite the talent within their current squad, the team has struggled to perform cohesively, resulting in inconsistent displays that have fallen short of expectations. ............

 

Spalletti’s arrival represents both an opportunity and a challenge. Juventus possess several high-quality players, but the need for greater cohesion and consistency remains evident. The club’s leadership recognises that improving the squad may require reinforcement in key areas, and the January transfer window could prove decisive in determining the success of their campaign.

 

Maurizio Compagnoni, a respected Italian football commentator, has expressed his belief that Juventus must strengthen its squad if it hopes to compete at the same level as Napoli. While acknowledging Spalletti’s managerial credentials, Compagnoni maintains that the gap between the two clubs remains significant and can only be narrowed through astute recruitment. ............

 

Sharing his perspective on Juventus’s current situation, Compagnoni spoke about Spalletti’s new role and the challenges ahead. He stated: “After Napoli’s extraordinary season, Spalletti fared poorly with the national team and was desperate to get started: I don’t know how many, in his place, would have said no to Juventus. Spalletti’s arrival in Turin doesn’t worry me, from a Napoli perspective, because Conte’s team is simply stronger. I’m sure that with Spalletti, Juve can improve, but they can’t reach Napoli’s level unless they produce some masterful transfers in January.” ............

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Luciano Spalletti is due to take charge of his first match as Juventus head coach on Saturday, but will have his work cut out for him as both Kenan Yildiz and Lloyd Kelly have been ruled out. Here is how the Old Lady could line up in their absence.

 

Juventus will travel to Cremona to take on Davide Nicola’s side in Serie A at 19.45 GMT on Saturday evening. This will be Spalletti’s first match in charge since replacing Igor Tudor as Bianconeri head coach on Thursday evening. ............

 

During his first press conference on Friday, Spalletti discussed the fact that he will look to deploy a back four in the future, but that he is likely to stick with a back three on Saturday, even if he only has three senior centre-backs available with Kelly and Bremer out injured.

 

That means that Pierre Kalulu, Federico Gatti and Daniele Rugani are practically guaranteed to start, with Next Gen defenders Pedro Felipe and Filippo Scaglia called in to make up the numbers. ............

 

Francisco Conceicao could come back into the starting line-up to play alongside Lois Openda in an attacking trident that will likely be led by Dusan Vlahovic at centre-forward.

 

Khephren Thuram is also back in the squad after being left out against Udinese on Wednesday. ............

 

 

Possible Juventus XI without Yildiz or Kelly

(3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Rugani; McKennie, Koopmeiners, Thuram/Locatelli, Cambiaso; Conceicao, Openda; Vlahovic.

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Bonazzoli suggests Juventus stars do not have the chemistry to succeed

Verona-Juventus.jpg

 

 

Emiliano Bonazzoli has shared his thoughts on the recent departure of Igor Tudor from Juventus, suggesting that the team’s struggles extend beyond coaching and stem from a lack of cohesion among the players. The Bianconeri have now appointed their third manager of the year, and supporters are hopeful that Luciano Spalletti will finally bring stability and long-term success to the club. ............

 

The club’s decision to part ways with Tudor reflects the mounting frustration over inconsistency and underachievement. Despite boasting a talented squad, Juventus have struggled to establish a clear identity or rhythm in its play. This lack of coherence has been evident

throughout the season, leaving the team vulnerable against both domestic and European opponents.

 

Luciano Spalletti, who has now taken over the managerial role, faces the challenge of uniting a group of players who appear disconnected on the pitch. His tactical intelligence and proven record in Serie A offer hope that he can instil greater structure and purpose within the team. However, as Bonazzoli’s remarks suggest, the issues may run deeper than managerial tactics alone. ............

 

Commenting on Juventus’s difficulties, Bonazzoli said: “I think it’s a bit of a delicate situation. When results aren’t coming, the coach is always the first to pay. However, I see a team with players who are disjointed from one another in their play.”

 

Bonazzoli’s observation highlights a key concern for Juventus: the apparent lack of synergy among players who, on paper, possess significant quality. His comments imply that before the team can aspire to consistent success, they must first address their internal imbalance and rediscover a collective understanding on the field. ............

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Journalist warns Juventus about what to expect from Cremonese

Italy vs Moldova: Preview and Prediction.

 

 

Juventus are preparing for a challenging Serie A encounter against Cremonese this weekend, a fixture that marks the beginning of Luciano Spalletti’s tenure as the club’s new manager. The Bianconeri have endured a turbulent season, one that has fallen short of their high expectations despite significant effort from both players and staff. As they enter a new era under Spalletti, there is cautious optimism that his arrival will provide renewed focus, discipline, and direction.

 

This match represents an important first test for the Italian tactician, who will be eager to make an immediate impact. ............

 

For Spalletti, this opening fixture offers an opportunity to assess his players and set the tone for what he hopes will be a successful period in charge. Although it will take several weeks for him to fully understand his squad and implement his preferred tactical approach, the expectations remain high from the outset. Juventus supporters will demand a victory to signal the start of a new chapter and to regain momentum after a disappointing run of form.

 

The Bianconeri will be expected to approach the match with renewed energy and motivation, as players look to impress their new manager. Every position in the starting lineup will be closely scrutinised, with Spalletti seeking to identify the combinations and individuals he can rely upon going forward. However, the manager and his team have been warned not to underestimate Cremonese’s fighting spirit. ............

 

Football analyst Ivan Ghigi has offered a word of caution regarding the challenge Juventus will face. He stated: “Cremonese has proven to be a compact team, ready to fight. This doesn’t guarantee a positive result against Juventus, but we can be sure that no matter how the match pans out, we’ll see a combative team on the pitch.”

 

Ghigi’s comments underline the determination and structure that have defined Cremonese’s performances this season. While Juventus possess the superior squad on paper, complacency could prove costly against an opponent capable of frustrating stronger sides. ............

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Cremonese vs Juventus: Preview and Prediction

Cremonese vs Juventus Prediction, Stats, H2H - 01 Nov 2025

 

Cremonese have enjoyed an impressive start to life in Serie A under new manager Davide Nicola, but things get tricky this weekend against Juventus. The newly-promoted side have already accumulated 14 points from their opening nine games, which places them right below their next opponents.

 

Cremonese are on a three-game unbeaten run at the moment, which involves two draws and a win over Genoa, which came last weekend. The big talking point recently was Jamie Vardy’s first Serie A goal, which secured a draw against Atalanta. ............

 

Speaking of shaky form, Juventus are not in the best of runs at the moment, and the club have changed managers midway through the season for three years running. The most successful club in the land are once again a victim of their own decision-making, as the board hopes their latest change will bear the fruits of success.

 

Last season saw Thiago Motta make way for Igor Tudor, and while the Croat got a permanent contract in the summer, he too was dismissed earlier this week. In his place, interim coach Massimo Brambilla secured a much-needed victory in midweek, as Dusan Vlahovic’s goal proved enough against Udinese.

 

Since then, Juventus have appointed former Italy and Napoli coach Luciano Spalletti at the helm, hoping to arrest the rot in which the Bianconeri went eight games without a win across all competitions. Spalletti has a big task at hand to revive the season on all fronts, and his first task at the Juventus boss would be to stabilise the league campaign with a win over Cremonese.

Team News & Tactics

Cremonese

 ............

 

 

Probable Lineup (3-5-2): Audero; Bianchetti, Baschirotto, Terraciano; Barbieri, Payero, Bondo, Vandeputte, Mussolini; Bonazzoli, Vardy

 

si4XGUgwoHXC6DYFC56B_FT.png

Juventus

All eyes will be on Luciano Spalletti and what he does with the Juventus squad, considering the former Napoli coach has developed a reputation for being an attack-minded, fluid coach.

 

There are doubts over Khephren Thuram following his withdrawal from the squad for the Udinese game, and Weston McKennie will be the ideal choice to take over his place in the midfield. Defensive duo Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal are the absentees in the squad alongside long-term injury victim Arkadiusz Milik.

 

For now, Spalletti might not take the handbrake off and change the present system, meaning a back three will be in effect for the visit to Cremonese. Similarly, Manuel Locatelli and McKennie will take the midfield spots, while Kenan Yildiz and Lois Openda will occupy the space behind striker Vlahovic.

 

Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Kelly; Cambiaso, Locatelli, McKennie, Kostic; Yildiz, Openda; Vlahovic

 

AiaSNvOXiTT1lhOU46vQ_Csh.png

Key Stats

  • Cremonese are undefeated in nine of their last ten matches in Serie A.
  • Cremonese are unbeaten in their last three games in Serie A.
  • Juventus have only one victory in their last nine games across all competitions
  • Juventus last lost to Cremonese only once in their history, and it came back in 1923.

Player to Watch

Dusan Vlahovic

 ............

 

Vlahovic has so far managed to get ahead in the race for being Juventus’s starting no.9 ahead of others. Luciano Spalletti must find a way to get the best out of the Serbian. For now, the Bianconeri supporters will look up to Vlahovic to get the goals in this team, and the trip to Cremonese will be a good chance for the Serb to answer a few critics.

Prediction

Cremonese 1-2 Juventus

Cremonese boss Davide Nicola will hope to carry forward their recent momentum into a game of big importance, and they are in with a chance to inflict more damage on Juventus. However, the hosts are not expected to get a win or even a draw, given the gulf in the gap in quality between the two teams.

 

Meanwhile, the presence of Luciano Spalletti in the Juventus dugout will be a source of motivation for the players, who will want to impress the new manager. Hence, the bigger possibility is for a Juventus win, although they are in with the chance to concede at some stage of this game.

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Luciano Spalletti surprised with tactical experiments on his Juventus debut, but it proved effective with a 2-1 victory away to Jamie Vardy’s Cremonese decided by Filip Kostic and Andrea Cambiaso. ............

 

After just one training session, he transformed them with Teun Koopmeiners in the centre of a three-man defence. The hosts were unbeaten in three and coming off a midweek 2-0 victory away to Genoa, which put them in eighth place. ............

 

It took just 85 seconds to get the first goal of the Spalletti era, as Lois Openda’s back-heel flick was meant to be for Dusan Vlahovic, who was surrounded by defenders, but the lucky ricochet off Jari Vandeputte found Kostic undisturbed to sweep home at the back post. It was the perfect way to celebrate his 33rd birthday, with his first Serie A goal since March 2023 against Inter.

 

Vlahovic surged forward and stung Emil Audero’s gloves from a tricky angle, but it was nearly 2-0 on 26 minutes when Manuel Locatelli’s daisy-cutter from the edge of the area was palmed into the base of the far post. ............

 

Openda hit the side-netting from a tight angle and drilled just wide of the near post, while Locatelli blasted over from the edge of the area.

 

Cremonese stepped up the pressure after the restart with a series of corners, and Michele Di Gregorio made a tricky save on the Jari Vandeputte scorcher, but it wouldn’t have counted as Jamie Vardy pulled it out of play in the build-up. ............

 

Just as Cremonese were pushing hard for the equaliser, Juventus doubled their lead. Francisco Conceicao pulled back from the right by-line, Federico Baschirotto prevented Vlahovic from tapping in, but only pushed it back to Cambiaso to blast in off the underside of the bar from 12 yards, despite the Audero save.

 

However, it wasn’t over, as Dennis Johnsen pumped a long ball over the top, Vardy won the physical tussle with Federico Gatti and surged forward to beat Di Gregorio with an angled drive into the far bottom corner to set up the tense finale.

Cremonese 1-2 Juventus

Kostic 2 (J), Cambiaso 68 (J), Vardy 83 (C) ............

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Juventus defeated Cremonese 2-1 on Saturday evening, in Luciano Spalletti’s first match as head coach of the Bianconeri. Football Italia’s Man of the Match was Andrea Cambiaso. ............

Cremonese 1-2 Juventus – Player Ratings

CremoneseAudero 6; Terracciano 5 (Johnsen 6.5), Baschirotto 5.5, Bianchetti 5.5, Barbieri 5.5; Payero 6; Bondo 6 (Sarmiento 6), Vandeputte 6, Mussolini 5.5 (Faye 6); Bonazzoli 5.5 (Vazquez 6), Vardy 7

 

Best Cremonese player: Jamie Vardy  ............

Lowest Cremonese rating: Filippo Terracciano  ............

Coach: Davide Nicola 6  ............

 

Juventus: Di Gregorio 6; Kalulu 6.5, Gatti 5.5, Koopmeiners 6; Cambiaso 7.5, Locatelli 6.5, Thuram 6 (Adzic N/A), Kostic 7.5 (Joao Mario 6); McKennie 6 (Rugani N/A), Vlahovic 6.5 (David N/A), Openda 6 (Conceicao 6.5) ............

 

Best Juventus player: Andrea Cambiaso – Could have been Kostic, with both wing-backs in fine form this evening. The press on their Cremonese counterparts was relentless all game and both were in fine creative form, creating chances and both finding the scoresheet. Cambiaso was slightly better in terms of his chance creation so gets the nod.

 

Lowest Juventus rating: Federico Gatti – Pushed into the centre of the back three to accommodate an unusual Koopmeiners position, the defender played fairly well but unfortunately was to blame for Vardy’s consolation goal.

 

Coach: Spalletti 7 – It takes a lot of bravery for a coach to gamble on his tactics after just one training session in charge but the experienced coach did exactly that. His dynamic and fluid set up allowed the Bianconeri to suffocate the hosts for a fair portion of the game and Bianconeri fans should be excited for what their new coach can bring.

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Juventus beat Cremonese 2-1 in Spalletti’s first match

Cremonese 1-2 Juventus (Nov 1, 2025) Game Analysis - ESPN

 

 

Juventus secured a 2-1 victory over Cremonese in Luciano Spalletti’s first match as their manager this evening, setting a positive tone for the new era at the club. Expectations were high ahead of the fixture, and Juve responded with a confident performance from the outset. Cremonese, known for their potential to create upsets, presented a genuine challenge, with dangerous attacking options that required vigilance from the Bianconeri. ............

 

Filip Kostic opened the scoring in just the second minute, marking his second consecutive start with a goal. This early strike provided exactly the kind of start Juventus supporters had hoped for, and it established momentum for the remainder of the first half. ............

 

After the interval, Juventus maintained their structure and resilience, successfully containing Cremonese’s attacks before doubling their advantage through Andrea Cambiaso against the run of play. Spalletti’s influence was evident in the team’s shape, balance and confidence, demonstrating that the players had quickly adapted to the new manager’s approach. The Bianconeri appeared well-prepared and physically ready to execute Spalletti’s game plan, blending defensive solidity with attacking intent. ............

 

Cremonese continued to press and eventually reduced the deficit through Jamie Vardy, introducing a measure of tension late in the game. Despite the goal, Juventus remained composed, denying the visitors further opportunities and controlling the closing stages effectively. The 2-1 win not only secured three points but also provided an encouraging start to Spalletti’s tenure, suggesting that Juventus are already adapting positively to his methods. ............

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Filip Kostic admits it is ‘amazing’ to score his first Juventus goal in over two years on his birthday, while Dusan Vlahovic warns they need to ‘get rid of some bad habits’ now Luciano Spalletti is here. ............

 

This evening the team made its debut under Spalletti after just one training session, picking up a 2-1 victory away to a Cremonese side that had lost only one match this term. ............

 

Kostic opened the scoring within 85 seconds, not scoring since March 2023 in Serie A, then Andrea Cambiaso doubled their lead.

 

“The feeling is so nice, I’m so happy for scoring, but even happier because we won the game. It’s so important for us and we need to continue like this,” Kostic said.

 

“It has been a very difficult period, but I always believed, I always worked hard, the team helped me a lot too. I am just happy because the last two games I got to start, today is my birthday, and also the birthday of Juventus, so this is amazing.”

 

Today is also the 118th anniversary of the foundation of the Turin-based club.

 

Spalletti did not shy away from tactical experimentation, launching Teun Koopmeiners in the back three as a very deep-lying playmaker. ............

 

However, Juventus seemed to back off in the second half and allow Cremonese back into the game, which they almost did with Jamie Vardy scoring a late goal.

 

“I wouldn’t say we had the wrong approach, in the second half, it’s that we have some bad habits we need to get rid of,” Vlahovic said.

 

“We sat too deep for no reason, we should’ve continued pressing them and scoring more goals, which we wasted. Cremonese deserve congratulations too, as they made it very tough and refused to give in. Tomorrow we will analyse the game, see what we got wrong, and then prepare for the next match.” ............

 

“It depends on the coach, I am ready to give my all for the team in any system, then it is up to the coach how we play,” concluded the striker.

 

Juventus now must prepare for a crucial Champions League clash with Sporting CP on Tuesday, then the Derby della Mole against city rivals Torino next weekend.

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Luciano Spalletti reveals what he expected from the Juventus tactical surprises against Cremonese and warns ‘the pressure can weigh on some players.’ ............

 

He kept the 3-5-2 formation overall, but with Teun Koopmeiners in central defence as a very deep-lying playmaker.

 

The wide men proved decisive, as Filip Kostic opened the scoring within 85 seconds, then Andrea Cambiaso added the second after the break, and they held on after a late Jamie Vardy goal for Cremonese. ............

 

“After two minutes, everyone could tell where he was playing,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia of Koopmeiners.

 

“I expected him to be in a position where he could do more damage, because we rarely managed to move it from right to left, and vice versa. The intention was for Thuram to push forward a bit, for Koopmeiners to enter into that space, so we’d have an extra man in midfield. That’s because Cremonese’s only real danger man is Vardy.

 

“I saw a good performance in terms of communication and focus, because Koopmeiners was more of a defender than anyone else when it came to ensuring organisation and calling the line on the counter-attack. It was necessary, because Cremonese are so dangerous with that ball over the top for the champion that is Vardy, which we saw with the goal he scored.” ............

 

“We already started to let them in towards half-time, then after the break, so there are obviously areas where we need to improve,” agreed Spalletti.

 

“There are many areas that require improvement, and quickly. There is potential visible in some of these players, I trust them, but the Juventus level puts pressure on them too. Talking to the club owners yesterday, they asked if I needed anything.

 

“It seems from the outside that it’s a great thing with Juventus having everything available, and it’s even more remarkable from the inside, you’ve seen nothing. That puts pressure on, it makes you realise the level, and it can weigh on some players, so they need time.” ............

 

“It is what I have always done. We need this contact with the squad, we want to give joy to those who love the team and this sport. You need to create a rapport with the players, that is how I have always worked, and I hope it does this time, seeing as it didn’t really work with the Nazionale,” he concluded.

 

“It is through that friendship, understanding, and those bonds that the whole team can grow together.” ............

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Luciano Spalletti got his Juventus career off to a winning start on Saturday night, with a 2-1 win against a plucky Cremonese side.

 

There are easier first games than against a brave newly-promoted side who have already taken points from the likes of Atalanta, Milan and Como this season.

 

However, Spalletti and his tactical gamble paid off, with his Bianconeri looking rejuvenated with fresh ideas and desire. ............

 

The biggest difference in how Juventus played this evening, compared to under the Tudor reign, was the fluidity of the formation.

 

It would appear that gone are the days of the structured 3-5-2 and 3-4-2-1 and whilst Spalletti’s formational choices didn’t stray too far from the framework left by Tudor, there was an air of dynamism and fluidity that was not present during the Croatian’s time at the club. ............

 

The constant movement and fluidity in this tactic caused difficulties for Cremonese, especially in the first half. The Bianconeri team took turns to press and cover for one another, with the wide players pressing hard in the first instance, before dropping off and allowing their midfield cover to push forward instead. ............

 

One of Igor Tudor’s main problems at Juventus this season, before he was replaced by Spalletti, was his conundrum in attack.

 

Whilst the likes of Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceicao have proved dangerous on the flanks, Tudor was unable to get it right with his centre-forwards. ............

 

David has just one goal in nine Serie A appearances this season. Meanwhile, Openda, who has played roughly 200 less minutes in the league, is goalless. Tudor’s rigid structure meant he struggled to get the best out of his forwards and Dusan Vlahovic’s inconsistent form has been cause for yet more selection headaches this campaign.

 

However, tonight Spalletti started both Openda and Vlahovic together, with the Belgian given more license to alternate between a more central role and pushing down the flank. A couple of times the former Leipzig man did well to burst to the byline and put a good ball in for Vlahovic or one of the other Bianconeri players lingering in the box.

 

Openda’s versatility could lead to him becoming a major asset for Spalletti but it is not clear how the return of Kenan Yildiz will impact this – and whether or not Spalletti will favour selection consistency or fluid rotation.

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Cremonese 1 - Juventus 2: Initial reaction and random observations

223619977-cfee3924-08b0-4dcd-8442-8cbc5e1dce73.jpg

 

 

When the first day of November arrives every year, it’s also a day to celebrate at Juventus — it’s the Old Lady’s birthday, with the grand and most successful Italian club turning 128 years old in 2025. The catch this season is that Juve’s birthday comes on the same day in which Luciano Spalletti made his debut as the club’s new manager after Igor Tudor was fired at the beginning of the work week. ............

 

Less than two minutes into Spalletti’s first game, Juventus already found themselves in front against one of the biggest surprises of the 2025-26 season to date, newly-promoted Cremonese. It was the birthday boy Filip Kostic ending a goal drought that spanned two years and scoring one of the quickest goals away from home from a Juventus player since these types of things have been counted, according to Opta. Throw in the guy playing on the opposite wing of Kostic, Andrea Cambiaso, scoring what proved to be the game-winning goal midway through the second half and Juventus doing some classic hang-on-for-dear-life survival to clinch the 2-1 win over Cremonese on Saturday night to give Spalletti the win in his debut and record back-to-back victories for just the second time this season.

 

Of course, these two wins in the span of four days have come under two different managers, both of which coming after Tudor was fired on Monday. First it was Massimo Brambilla dropping in for a couple of days and keeping the seat warm for the more permanent manager, who ended up being Spalletti.

 

Both Brambilla and Spalletti had all of one training session before coaching their respective debuts on the Juve sideline this week. One manager changed things up both tactically and lineup-wise — and you can probably guess which was which just considering each coach’s situation and how long they’re going to be running training sessions at Continassa the rest of this season. That, of course, was to be expected. Brambilla was the bridge to Spalletti, and the latter is somebody who will hopefully be around for a few years beyond the completion of the 2025-26 campaign.

 

Was Spalletti’s debut perfect? Not by any stretch of the imagination. Nor should we have expected it to be simply because of why he’s here. This is a Juventus team that needs a lot of work, and it’s still a question of if somebody who’s even as experienced as Spalletti can be the one to get that done with this current roster. The first half was a much better overall showing than the second half from Juventus. Some of that had to do with the early goal allowing Juve to really try and go for it while knowing full well they were ahead. Some of it also had to do with some of the changes Spalletti made after the break that didn’t exactly work out well. (Attacking changes with a 2-0 lead? Knowing full well how this Juve team can protect a lead? Not so sure about that one, Luciano.) ............

 

Compared to how they looked all of six days earlier against a Lazio side that was basically daring them to score after taking the lead, it’s a step in the right direction to hopefully start to turn this season around. It’s not a big step, but it’s a step forward rather than what was happening under Tudor.

 

And for a team that hadn’t won in nearly seven weeks, getting a pair of wins within the span of four days does feel a whole lot better than an eight-game winless run that ended up costing Tudor his job.

 

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

  • He may be 66 years old, but man, Spalletti can still absolutely rock a suit. That man has style in droves.
  • Also, that nonchalant reaction to Kostic’s goal was pretty amusing.
  • And casually strolling out of the tunnel right as the second half is kicking off? That’s also pretty amusing. Only somebody like Spalletti he has some cool to his managerial game can do that in his first game in charge at a new club. ............
  • Federico Gatti getting muscled out of a 50-50 challenge by a 38-year-old striker who has only been in Italy for a couple of months. Not a great look there, Cats.
  • I mean, Jamie Vardy scoring against Juventus in the year 2025? Really now?
  • But Vardy is Vardy and will forever be Vardy as long as he’s playing. ............
  • Speaking of strikers, Dusan Vlahovic … what the hell has gotten into you, my friend?
  • Maybe he sees the January transfer window two months away and the window to negotiate with his next team approaching and he’s starting to ramp things up. It sure would be nice if he had played like this on a more consistent basis during his early days with Juventus. But hey, let’s just ride this change for the better as long as we can and maybe it turns into an extended run of good form. That sure would help Spalletti out as some of the other strikers not named Kenan Yildiz continue to struggle. ............
  • Guessing a lot of you didn’t have Teun Koopmeiners playing as part of Juve’s back three against Cremonese. I know I didn’t!
  • But hey, it’s a surprise by Spalletti right out of the gate that seemed to work out quite well. I mean, he didn’t get toasted by Vardy like one of Juve’s natural central defenders did, so there’s that. I say that in jest, but it is true as well. Koopmeiners had much more to do defensively with this new role — which, by the way, I am not expecting to be a permanent one — but it also played to some of his strengths. That is something Spalletti talked about in his introductory press conference when it comes to Koopmeiners, and this was proof of that. Now we just gotta see if he can actually do it as a midfielder next time around.
  • Andrea Cambiaso back???? That sure would be nice.
  • Again, Kostic scoring a goal for Juventus in 2025 is just something I definitely did not have on my bingo card. Yet for the second straight game, he played pretty dang well — and that’s maybe one of the more pleasant developments to come out of these back-to-back wins no matter who the opposition is. ............
  • Not feeling completely depressed about the state of Juventus following a weekend fixture? Oh wow, I’ve missed this kind of feeling. Onward we go. Let’s put a winning streak together, Luciano.

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Juventus player ratings vs Cremonese: Kostic shines on Spalletti debut

202841357-4ef2fcca-4408-492a-b579-24ad0722636c.jpg

 

 

Luciano Spalletti got his winning debut on the road, as Juventus held on to beat Cremonese despite a late scare.

 

Filip Kostic gave the Bianconeri an early lead in the second minute, while Andrea Cambiaso doubled the advantage after the break. Jamie Vardy’s late strike restored the Tigers’ hopes, but the visitors managed to navigate their way towards a much-needed victory. ............

Juventus XI (3-4-2-1)

Michele Di Gregorio – 6 ............

Pierre Kalulu – 6.5 ............

Federico Gatti – 5.5

The Italian defender was enjoying a fine outing, but it was blighted by a late blunder, as he lost the physical duel to Vardy, allowing the Leicester legend to head straight towards goal.

Teun Koopmeiners – 6.5

This surely isn’t a line anyone had expected to read, but Teun Koopmeiners was absolutely solid at the back, making a few key interceptions while helping in the buildup. It remains to be seen if the Dutchman’s defensive role was a one-off or a vision Spalletti genuinely believes in.

Andrea Cambiaso – 7.5

A fabulous outing from the versatile wing-back who did well on the right side, and eventually rewarded himself by scoring a scrappy yet crucial goal.

Manuel Locatelli – 6.5 ............

Khephren Thuram – 6.5 ............

Filip Kostic – 7.5

The Serbian winger was in the right place at the right time to pounce on the loose ball. Scoring the opener may have restored his confidence, as he looked lively and inspired for the rest of the evening.

Weston McKennie – 7 ............

Loic Openda – 6

The Belgian attacker is starting to adjust to his surroundings. His backheel instigated the first goal, although it wasn’t intended for Kostic. His understanding with Vlahovic still requires some work.

Dusan Vlahovic – 6

The bomber’s vigorous pressing should be credited for the opener. He also came close to scoring with a lovely solo effort, but should have done better on a few promising situations, especially when McKennie teed him up.

Substitutes

Francisco Conceicao – 7

The Portuguese winger’s run down the right flank caused havoc in the box, culminating in Cambiaso’s goal. He also tracked back to support his teammates.

Joao Mario – N/A

Vasilije Adzic – N/A

Daniele Rugani – N/A

Jonathan David – N/A

.

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Spalletti credits Tudor for the win, admits feeling the pressure at Juventus, explains Scudetto comments

Luciano Spalletti on his Juventus debut

 

 

Luciano Spalletti enjoyed a winning debut at Juventus, as his team edged past Cremonese on the road, but he admits that the pressure is already on. ............

 

During his unveiling on Friday, Spalletti insisted that Juventus still have a chance to storm into the Scudetto race.

 

Therefore, the manager was asked to double down on these comments following the 2-1 win over Cremonese.

 

“I’m already with my back to the wall. I said it because it has to be said,” said the Tuscan in his post-match interview.

 

“We have a very long road to get there, and we definitely need to improve, even though we played a great game, because we created so many chances.

 

“However, creating them and then squandering them like we did, that’s good on one side, but we need to work on the other. All in all, we’re satisfied.” ............

 

“I found a team in good shape because you can see Tudor, even on the bench, is someone who encourages the team to run, someone who has coached the team well.

 

“Then you start feeling some of this pressure, this level that Juventus has from a historical perspective, and from what the future will hold, because Juventus has potential everywhere and probably someone still has to reach that level, that depth, to be comfortable in this shirt.

 

“But today, I think we played a good game, and I’m very happy. There were situations where the ball swung in front of the goal four or five times, and no one was able to put it in. But we got there, we pressed in the final minutes, we moved up, we were in the game.” ............

 

“Koopmeiners can play there, he’s already done it with the national team. These must be his intentions; more than anything, it served as a message to the lads: we don’t go out to defend a game, we have to want to play.

 

“I liked his attitude more than his performance, because he constantly directed those up front, he told them how to position themselves, he was aggressive, he was defensive, and if we had used him more in passing the ball, in the low perimeter when building from the back, he would have advanced to the middle of the park to create numerical superiority.”

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Cambiaso reveals what Spalletti told him on Italy experience, identifies his preferred role

Serie A | Cremonese-Juventus | Il commento di Cambiaso - Juventus

 

 

Juventus wing-back Andrea Cambiaso opened up on his reunion with Luciano Spalletti, while also discussing his favourite role on the pitch.

 

The 25-year-old helped the newly-appointed manager earn a win on his club debut, as he scored the second goal against Cremonese, which turned out to be the winner, as Saturday’s contest ended 2-1............

 

Cambiaso is one of the few Juventus players who are already familiar with Spalletti, having played under his tutelage in the Italian national team. ............

 

“I was happy with his arrival. He’s a coach who, I certainly don’t have to say how good he’s been throughout his career. He’s done well everywhere,” said Cambiaso in his post-match interview.

 

“I’ll tell you something about Mr Spalletti: when we first met at Continassa, he told me he was still upset about the national team, so that says a lot about his passion for this sport.

 

“I’m happy to see him again; I’m convinced he can give us a huge hand.” ............

 

“We conceded a goal that could and should have been avoided,” he said.

 

“We allowed them to reopen a game that was already over, but the important thing is that we won.” ............

 

“Playing on the right is easier for me. This definitely helped me today. I found good opportunities centrally, and it’s easier to get into the field.” ............

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Why Spalletti is keen to play with three at back despite Juve’s defensive emergency

Cremonese-Juventus 1-2, pagelle: che compleanno per Kostic (7), Gatti (5)  ridicolizzato da Vardy, Spalletti (7) parte bene | Corriere.it

 

 

On his Juventus debut in Cremona, Luciano Spalletti insisted on fielding a three-man backline, even though he had limited options in defence.

 

The Bianconeri went with a hybrid formation, with some viewing it as a 3-5-2, while others interpreted it as a 3-4-2-1. ............

 

In any case, the fact that Spalletti was so keen to play with three defenders that he converted Teun Koopmeiners to a centre-back stole the headlines. ............

 

The new Juventus boss had to do without Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal, who suffered fresh setbacks last month, plus Lloyd Kelly who’s struggling with back pain. Hence, Koopmeiners was the unlikely candidate who joined Pierre Kalulu and Federico Gatti in the three-man defence.

 

This decision somewhat paid off, with Juventus beating Cremonese by two goals to one.

 

But for a manager who spent the bulk of his career playing with four at the back, one might wonder why he decided to adopt this formation on his Juventus bow in the first place. ............

 

While his predecessors Thiago Motta and Igor Tudor were determined to implement their favourite formations, Spalletti has opted for a more pragmatic approach. ............

 

As the source explains, the 66-year-old noticed that if he chooses to adopt a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 system, he would be left with three strikers (Vlahovic, Openda and David) vying for one role.

 

Moreover, Spalletti feels that Juve’s wide options (Cambiaso, Kostic and Joao Mario) are more comfortable playing as wing-backs rather than full-backs. ............

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Le Pagelle: Juventus vs. Cremonese

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The Luciano Spalletti era started for Juventus on Saturday with a 2-1 victory over Cremonese. That scoreline could’ve been a lot more had one or two things gone a little differently, but the new-look Juve had little ultimate problem despite Cremonese making things slightly too interesting with a late goal. ............

 

MICHELE DI GREGORIO - 6.5. An uneventful day for Di Gregorio, who faced only one shot on target besides Jamie Vardy’s late strike. Keeping the defense together was especially important for him given the unorthodox nature of the back line. (We’ll get to that).

PIERRE KALULU - 6.  ............

FEDERICO GATTI - 5.5. Not a great look to be outmuscled by a 38-year-old dude and then fail to catch up to him before he could shoot. It marred an otherwise good game that saw him make seven clearances and complete 91.7 percent of his passes.

TEUN KOOPMEINERS - 6. Meant to try to overload the midfield when Juve was in attack, he did so at times but wasn’t the biggest offensive influence on the team. Defended competently and made a big double block late on.

ANDREA CAMBIASO - 7.5. In the right place to poach what was ultimately the deciding goal, and was the biggest creator on the team. He had a game-high three key passes and had a few other well-placed balls fly through the area that didn’t reach a teammate. He’s played his last two games on the right and they’ve been his two best games of the season by a wide margin.

MANUEL LOCATELLI - 6.5.  ............

KHÉPHREN THURAM - 6.  ............

FILIP KOSTIC - 7. Reacted perfectly to Vandeputte’s to give Juve the early lead and was excellent on the left side. He had a pair of dribbles as well as a pair of clearances. Also played a huge part in Juve’s press, keeping Cremonese’s wing-backs pinned back.

WESTON McKENNIE - 6.5.  ............

LOÏS OPENDA - 5.5. Got himself into good positions all night but still clearly lacks the confidence to act quickly on the field. Could’ve scored once or twice had he taken his shots earlier.

DUSAN VLAHOVIC - 6. Could’ve had himself another goal but Audero saved his shot well after an audacious turn. Absolutely ferocious in the press.

SUBS

FRANCISCO CONCIEÇÃO - 6. Set up Cambiaso’s goal with a nice move, and made some trouble when he got the ball.

VASILIJE ADZIC - NR.  ............

JOÃO MÁRIO - NR.  ............

JONATHAN DAVID - NR.  ............

DANIELE RUGANI - NR.  ............

 

MANAGER ANALYSIS

Spalletti showed a heck of a lot of gumption in making the tweak he made to the system given he only had one training session before the game. His use of Koopmeiners in the back to essentially serve as a super-deep-lying playmaker and essentially an extra midfielder in possession was an interesting experiment, and not one I think Spalletti would care to repeat against higher-level opposition, but an interesting wrinkle nonetheless. ............

Wednesday’s win saw some of that rigidity melt away, and on Saturday it was clear they were enjoying the freedom Spalletti had afforded them. When a team is clearly having more fun on the pitch, the play is almost invariably better—and this team was clearly enjoying themselves more than they have in weeks.

It’s obviously far too early to truly ascertain how Spalletti wants to play on a regular basis, but if the freedom we saw the players afforded is the norm, we could see a much happier and more engaged squad over the course of the season. ............

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