JUVENTUS SEASON 2025-2026

[Socrates 9455]

Juventus 2 - Udinese 0: Initial reaction and random observations

 

 

Thankfully, Juventus’ first foray into the Coppa Italia this season didn’t go anywhere close to how their last fixture in the competition went about nine months earlier. ............

 

That’s because Juventus beat Udinese 2-0 on Tuesday night to advance to the Coppa Italia quarterfinals where either Atalanta or Genoa await in the quarterfinals. It was the kind of win that we hadn’t seen much of this season — a Juventus that was in control and barely let the opposition do much of anything going forward. As much as a couple of Udinese’s best chances were ruled out for offside (thanks to VAR or without VAR), you could say the same thing about a pair of goals that Juventus thought they had scored in the game. Ultimately, a Udinese own goal and a Manuel Locatelli goal from the penalty spot — the third of that kind against Udinese this season — proved to the different as Juve clinched the win in an incredibly comfortable kind of way. ............

 

Juventus were the favorites to win. Juventus ended up getting the win and did so with some room to spare regardless of how many goals were chalked off by VAR being completely frustrating like only that whole system can promise to be.

 

Then again, maybe we shouldn’t have been so stressed no matter how Juve’s season has gone to date. Why? Because sometimes there’s facts that speak for themselves …

 

A perfect 18 for 18 dating back nearly two decades? My goodness, that’s pretty good! Considering the date that this goes back to, it’s not like there were some vintage Juventus squads in there, either. You know, kinda like this Juventus team. But this is what we all expect Juventus to do at this stage of the Coppa Italia. The matchups are set up for the big clubs to advance even with the expected squad rotation that comes with it. And even as Luciano Spalletti said that there would be a good amount of squad rotation against Udinese — and he delivered on that for the most part — but also made it known just how much Juve needed to win this one as well. ............

 

But on this night, Juventus made things look relatively smooth just as they did when Udinese visited the Allianz about five weeks ago. This time it was Spalletti on the sidelines and not Massimo Brambilla, but the showing that Juve put out there even with the lineup changes were sound and they were in control of things from the beginning onward. With all the possession they had — especially early — you would have liked there to be more scoring chances created, but Udinese weren’t given much of a chance to do anything at all. ............

 

And once Juve got the opening goal on what looked like Jonathan David’s second goal in a week before it was officially ruled on own goal, it felt like only one of those classic Bianconeri screwups would be the thing that prevents them from moving on to the Coppa Italia quarterfinals.

 

Udinese never got that break, thanks in part to the offside working in Juve’s favor.

 

No matter what, though, we’re still talking about Juve being in the Coppa Italia and moving on to the quarterfinals. Now just don’t mention what happened in the quarterfinals last season and we’ll be good.

 

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

• As much as Spalletti sounded happy with this performance, he said that Juve need to be more ruthless. Seeing off a very winnable game earlier and being ruthless? That sounds wonderful! Where do I sign up? At least be the second signature on that list after Spalletti, of course.
• Personally, I feel like this trend of a Juventus player getting hurt every game needs to end. First Dusan Vlahovic, now Federico Gatti. Who’s next? I am scared to find out!
• Going to Naples this weekend with two healthy center backs seems like a situation that is very much far from ideal. A memo to Gleison Bremer and big Dan Rugani: please get healthy as soon as possible.
• It’s the 15th minute and Juventus has 80% of the possession. ............
• Is this the best overall game that Jonathan David has had since joining Juventus? Yeah, I feel pretty safe in saying that. And that sure does feel good to see knowing that Juve are going to be without Vlahovic for the next couple of months at least. He didn’t get a goal — thanks for that own goal, guys! — but he sure did so many other good things to make you feel a little more encouraged after this one.
• Now, for David, it just has to continue. That’s the most obvious thing I’ve said on this blog in a while. I think.
• The one gripe I have with Spalletti in this game is resting Kenan Yildiz. I don’t know the reasoning behind it, but if you have a chance to rest your best player and still have a very good chance of winning, you go ahead and do it. Juventus could have gotten by without Yildiz against Udinese and given him a full week off going into the biggest domestic fixture outside of the Derby d’Italia to date. Oh well.
• Is it safe to say that Edon Zhegrova, a lot like Yildiz, comes from the school of wanting to destroy and embarrass opposing defenders as much as possible? I think so. ............
• Edon, my dude, just get those fitness levels up so we can enjoy your crafty footwork for more than 10 or 15 minutes a game (or week). There’s so much potential for good things with you on the field because we’ve seen that happen already. Now we just need it for an entire half or maybe, just maybe, from the opening kickoff a few times over the next month or two.
• This was Weston McKennie’s 200th game in a Juventus jersey.
• This was Manuel Locatelli’s 201st game in a Juventus jersey. ............
• Udinese’s first shot didn’t happen until the 47th minute. More of that sounds like a good idea. Especially the fact that none of the four shots Udinese had against Juventus were actually on goal. ............
• Pierre Kalulu, a guy who also probably needs a rest, continues to just be so sound defensively. At some point he will get a rest, but until then just keep on doing what you’re doing, my dude.
• Now we can turn all of the attention over to facing Napoli this weekend. They’re not untouchable by any means, and Antonio Conte has shown to have some issues with this squad this season. It’s going to be a big ask, but Juve going to southern Italy with three wins in the span of eight days feels like as good as we could have asked entering Spalletti’s first game at the Maradona since leading Napoli to their first title in three decades. It’s going to be an interesting Sunday night, my friends.

Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/34339/juventus-udinese-2025-coppa-italia-round-of-16-final-score-result-initial-reaction-random-observations

Modificato Mercoledì alle 08:40 da Socrates

[Socrates 9455]

How Juventus could line up against Napoli after triple defensive injury problem

 

 

An injury to Federico Gatti means that Luciano Spalletti has been left without three of his first-team centre-backs for Sunday’s huge Serie A clash away against reigning champions Napoli, so how could the Bianconeri line up at the back when they take on the Partenopei at the Maradona? ............

 

Gatti adds to an injury list that already included two first-team centre-backs in Gleison Bremer and Daniele Rugani, both of whom are hoping to return towards the end of December.

 

The situation means that Pierre Kalulu and Lloyd Kelly are now the only established senior centre-backs in Spalletti’s first-team squad, which is a bit of a concern given that the Old Lady have most regularly lined up in a back three this season. ............

 

If Spalletti is to go with a back three when he takes on his former club this weekend, it is most likely that Teun Koopmeiners, who has been tried out in the defensive line in recent weeks, joins Kalulu and Kelly as the third centre-back. There is also a possibility that Juan Cabal is given a go on the left of the three. ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/how-juventus-line-up-vs-napoli-after-gatti/

[Socrates 9455]

Pistocchi thinks Juventus performance against Udinese was their best so far

 

 

Juventus delivered a commanding performance in their first Coppa Italia match under Luciano Spalletti last night. The men in black and white have long been regarded as one of Europe’s strongest clubs and continue to hold that reputation despite a recent run of poor form. The club are striving to reach the next level and restore the glory days at the Allianz Stadium, and Spalletti has been tasked with guiding them back to that standard. His team has shown early signs of improvement, winning three consecutive games under his management. ............

 

Each of these victories has been achieved in a convincing manner, with the match against Udinese highlighting the progress being made. Juventus kept a clean sheet and displayed a level of organisation and efficiency that supporters have long sought. This consistency is essential if the men in black and white are to maintain momentum and demonstrate that they are capable of sustaining a winning run. The players appear to be adapting to the mindset and tactical system that Spalletti demands, combining disciplined defending with a more proactive approach in attack. ............

 

Journalist Maurizio Pistocchi offered his perspective on the team’s performance against Udinese. He said, “The best Juve seen so far beats Udinese 2-0 and continues its journey in the Coppa Italia. Beyond the incidents that led to Palma’s own goal and Locatelli’s penalty, the Bianconeri appeared to be improving in terms of play and in good physical condition against a very physical and organised opponent. A clear victory, achieved by controlling the game, which reassures the Juventus atmosphere in the week leading up to the Maradona match against league leaders Napoli.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/journalist-thinks-juventus-performance-against-udinese-was-their-best-so-far/

[Socrates 9455]

Napoli in Full-blow crisis ahead of Juventus clash as Conte loses another key midfielder

 

 

Napoli have been dealt another painful injury blow, with Stanislav Lobotka also ruled out of Sunday’s showdown against Juventus.

 

Antonio Conte has already been without Manchester City icon Kevin De Bruyne, who suffered a serious injury while converting a spot-kick against Inter in late October.

 

Moreover, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Billy Gilmour have also succumbed to injuries in recent weeks, thus leaving Conte with a completely ravaged midfield department. ............

 

“Stanislav Lobotka sustained a muscle strain in the posterior tibial muscle of his left leg during Wednesday’s pre-match warm-up,” reads the press release published on the official Napoli website.

 

“The Napoli player has already started the rehabilitation process.”

 

The Slovakian is considered one of the finest deep-lying playmakers in Serie A, and even Juventus are said to be interested in reuniting him with Luciano Spalletti. Therefore, Conte will be loath to lose his services, especially ahead of a major contest against Juventus. ............

 

With the midfield department almost entirely decimated, Conte will resort to Scott McTominay for inspiration. However, it remains to be seen who will play alongside the Manchester United youth product.

 

The versatile Eljif Elmas could be the best option, although he’s considered an attacking midfielder rather than a deep-lying playmaker. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/napoli-crisis-juventus-clash-conte-lobotka/

[Socrates 9455]

David or Openda: Who should lead the line for Juventus against Napoli?

 

 

Juventus striker Lois Openda could be set to replace fellow summer signing Jonathan David in the starting lineup against Napoli.

 

The two attackers have been enduring almost identical paths since arriving in Turin. Neither has been able to deliver in front of goal since the start of the season, but they both managed to score against Bodo/Glimt in last week’s Champions League contest. ............

 

On Tuesday, David got the nod in the Coppa Italia Round 16 against Udinese, while Openda replaced him in the closing stages of the match.

 

The Old Lady prevailed by two unanswered goals, but ironically, the two strikers saw their goals disallowed for marginal offside positions. ............

 

Spalletti considers David a classic No.9 capable of inflicting damage in the box. Therefore, the Canadian’s traits are particularly useful against smaller opposition in Serie A, who tend to deploy low defensive blocks.

 

On the other hand, Openda is a pacey attacker who thrives in space. This renders him more dangerous against bigger opponents, or generally clubs that like to push forward and leave acres of space at the back. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/david-or-openda-who-should-lead-the-line-for-juventus-against-napoli/

[Socrates 9455]

Pavan hopes Juventus delivers their best performance against Napoli

 

 

Massimo Pavan has expressed his hope that Juventus will be in top condition when they take on Napoli in Serie A this weekend. Juventus have put together a three-match winning run and will now face what is likely to be their most challenging test of the season. Their form has been encouraging, yet the task ahead remains substantial.

 

Juventus possess several of the finest players in Italian football and is fully capable of earning a result. However, Napoli, managed by Antonio Conte, are the reigning champions and have enjoyed a strong campaign so far. ............

 

For any club, visiting Naples is one of the most demanding assignments in the league. Juventus are fully aware of how challenging it will be to come away with victory at such a hostile and energetic venue. Nevertheless, they cannot afford a setback. A defeat would risk damaging both their confidence and their momentum at a crucial stage of the season. Pavan recognises the fine margins involved and highlighted the significance of the occasion. He said:

 

“The match against Napoli isn’t balanced today. If everyone gives 110%, there could be surprises, but it’s been too long since we’ve seen a team capable of putting in a good performance in Naples, just as it’s been a long time since Juventus played a high-level game away from home. I hope this is the right time. I’d like Maradona Yildiz to prove himself as the great player he is at home.” ............

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As Juventus attempts to maintain its upward trajectory, this match offers an opportunity to demonstrate its progress. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/pavan-hopes-juventus-delivers-their-best-performance-against-napoli/

[Socrates 9455]

Altafini discusses the importance of the Napoli stadium for the game

 

 

Juventus are preparing to visit the Maradona Stadium this weekend for its match against Napoli, a venue long regarded as one of the most demanding environments in Italian football. The stadium has caused problems for Juventus in the past, and its fierce atmosphere often shapes the dynamics of matches played there. Football holds tremendous significance in Naples, and the Bianconeri know they are travelling into a setting that is both passionate and intense, with supporters who create a formidable backdrop for any visiting team. ............

 

Luciano Spalletti previously worked at Napoli and guided the club to a league crown in 2023 in particularly intense fashion, a triumph that further strengthened the stadium’s reputation as a place where ambition and expectation collide. Juventus enter this fixture on the back of three consecutive victories, a run that has injected confidence into the squad. Their recent hard work has brought a level of consistency they had been seeking, and the prospect of achieving a fourth straight win appears encouraging on paper. However, the reality of playing in such an intimidating environment presents a far more demanding challenge. The team in black and white will need to demonstrate composure and discipline to maintain their form under the pressure that awaits them.

 

The question for many observers is whether Juventus can successfully navigate the heat of the Maradona Stadium, a ground where emotion and noise contribute significantly to the match experience. ............

 

José Altafini believes that the players from both sides possess the mentality needed to cope with such demanding surroundings. He said, “I know that heat well, in my day, it was the San Paolo. It gives you a lot, but it does not decide on its own. In stadiums this full, there would only be home wins, but that is not the case. Napoli and Juventus have players accustomed to pressure.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/pundit-discusses-the-importance-of-the-napoli-stadium-for-the-game/

[Socrates 9455]

“Decisive moment” Tacchinardi explains what he expects from Juventus

 

 

Alessio Tacchinardi believes that Juventus have now reached a critical stage of the season, one in which they must elevate their performances and become a more cohesive and effective team. The men in black and white continue to work diligently to ensure they are in peak condition, and the efforts of Luciano Spalletti on the training ground are beginning to yield results. The Bianconeri are currently enjoying a three-game winning streak heading into their weekend fixture against Napoli, a run that has provided a boost of confidence ahead of a challenging encounter. ............

 

This season has presented numerous challenges, particularly with injuries affecting their midfield, yet Juventus feel capable of overcoming the Partenopei and securing maximum points. With no international break until next year, the team is determined to make the most of the upcoming fixtures and maintain their momentum. Juve’s schedule is demanding, with both domestic and European commitments placing considerable strain on the squad, a period in which many clubs historically encounter difficulties. Tacchinardi is aware of these risks and emphasises the importance of sustaining focus to avoid potential setbacks. ............

 

He said, “This is the decisive moment of the season. Juve played a serious match, like against Bodo. I don’t like the fact that all these games are coming in a row, they’re very tough. At a time like this, the most difficult games of the championship are coming, as well as the Champions League match, which is crucial. In my opinion, these are terrible days: Juve must prove themselves. In the post-match press conference, I didn’t hear Spalletti giving the impression that he has a ready team, but maybe I’m wrong.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/decisive-moment-tacchinardi-explains-what-he-expects-from-juventus/

[Socrates 9455]

Spalletti changes Juventus’ pre-match routine for Napoli clash

 

 

Multiple sources claim that Juventus will travel to Naples on Sunday morning as Luciano Spalletti seeks to keep the team focused and prevent any distractions or disturbances on the eve of the match. ............

 

The Bianconeri will make the 870-km trip, circa 1h30m flight, on Sunday morning as Spalletti wants to avoid disturbances in Naples on the eve of the game.

 

Predictably, Juventus won’t get a friendly welcome in town.

 

It is no secret that, in the past, Bianconeri players struggled to get proper rest on the eve of games against the Partenopei due to Napoli fans’ chants and firecrackers set off outside the team’s hotel. ............

 

According to the reports, Spalletti, Napoli’s Serie A title-winning coach in 2022-23, wants to avoid this sort of interference; therefore, the Old Lady will only fly to Naples on the day of the game. ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-juventus-pre-match-routine-napoli/

 

Modificato 20 ore fa da Socrates

[Socrates 9455]

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

 

 

 

Headlining Serie A's 14th matchday, Italian giants Napoli and Juventus will convene for a heavyweight clash at Stadio Maradona on Sunday. ............

 

Match preview

 

Reigning Serie A champions Napoli seem to have rediscovered their spark, following a switch of formation and personnel that was largely brought about by absences. ............

 

Remarkably, Conte will finally face his fellow ex-Italy coach Luciano Spalletti for the first time, aiming to extend Napoli's newfound supremacy over Juventus: they have won all of the last six meetings in Naples.

 

Once dominant over their southern counterparts, Juve have lost seven of 11 league matches against Napoli since 2020, and they currently trail five points behind in the table.

 

Adding to the intrigue, Spalletti is set to encounter his old club for the first time since walking out after ending their long Scudetto drought in 2023.

 

The Bianconeri's new boss is still unbeaten - with four victories and three draws so far - having posted three wins from three across a trio of competitions by beating Udinese in midweek.

 

Like Napoli, Juventus are through to the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, with Tuesday's 2-0 triumph setting up a last-eight clash against Atalanta.

 

Previously, they had beaten Bodo/Glimt in Europe before seeing off Cagliari in Serie A, so the chaos that Spalletti inherited seems to be finding some order.

 

While Juve still trail Italy's top six, confidence may be rising towards the end of another tough year, and a statement victory on Sunday could even take them into the title race.

 

Napoli Serie A form:

W W D L W W

Napoli form (all competitions):

D L W W W W

 

Juventus Serie A form:

L W W D D W

Juventus form (all competitions):

D D D W W W

---

Team News

 ............

 

As Dusan Vlahovic has been ruled out until 2026, either Lois Openda or Jonathan David will lead Juve's attack - the latter was preferred against Udinese.

 

Spalletti also made some changes in the Coppa Italia, notably welcoming back first-choice goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio.

 

The manager is still without several players, though: centre-backs Federico Gatti, Bremer and Daniele Rugani are all out of contention.

 

Once again, the Bianconeri's key creator will be Kenan Yildiz, but all seven of his Serie A goal involvements this season have come in Turin.

 

Napoli possible starting lineup:

Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Buongiorno; Di Lorenzo, Elmas, McTominay, Olivera; Neres, Lang; Hojlund

 

Juventus possible starting lineup:

Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Kelly, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Kostic; Conceicao, Yildiz; David

 

We say: Napoli 1-0 Juventus 

Completing an unbeaten calendar year on home turf, injury-hit Napoli can grind out another grim win over Juventus.

 

Regardless of recent results, Italy's most successful club are still in an institutional crisis, while the champions raise their game when the going gets tough.

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Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/napoli/preview/napoli-vs-juventus-prediction-team-news-lineups_587221.html

[Socrates 9455]

Napoli vs Juventus: Italian press anticipate ‘special encounter’ between Conte & Spalletti

 

 

Despite the careers of Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti and Napoli boss Antonio Conte being long and storied, both coaches spending lots of time leading clubs in Italy’s top flight and abroad, the two have never met in a competitive capacity. ............

 

Juventus currently sit five points behind Sunday’s opposition, with the Bianconeri all the way down in 7th place. It is a very close race in the upper echelons of the table but Juventus are still yet to lose under Spalletti. ............

 

Since his arrival, the Old Lady have won four games in all competitions, drawing three-in-a-row in November. ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/napoli-vs-juventus-conte-spalletti-special/

[Socrates 9455]

Balzarini discusses what he expects from the Napoli-Juventus match

 

 

Juventus take on Napoli this weekend in a highly anticipated encounter, with both clubs managing significant injury concerns as they pursue important points in the title race. The men in black and white are determined to secure victory, particularly given their recent fitness setbacks. Napoli, meanwhile, arrives with an even more depleted midfield, a situation that has affected their rhythm and consistency as they attempt to defend the league crown they won last season. Despite these challenges, the match remains a meeting of two top clubs with the quality to defeat each other, making the outcome potentially influential for their ambitions. ............

 

Juventus have been forced to cope without Dusan Vlahovic and Federico Gatti among several other unavailable players, a situation that has stretched their resources at a demanding stage of the season. Napoli face similar difficulties, their midfield having been severely disrupted by fitness problems. This has left both sides needing to adapt, with tactical decisions likely to be shaped by the players available rather than those ordinarily preferred. For Juventus, the aim is clear. They want to stay as close to the top of the table as possible, and to do so, they must secure maximum points in decisive fixtures such as this. The men in black and white will therefore be keen to exploit any shortcomings within the Napoli side. ............

 

Journalist Gianni Balzarini has offered his thoughts on the encounter and expects a match that, while shaped by absences, will still offer high-level football. He said, “I do not think there were any tears from the Neapolitans. I partially agree with those who say this match is less spectacular due to absences on both sides. However, it is still a high-level match. I think it is a spectacular match in its own way.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/journalist-discusses-what-he-expects-from-the-napoli-juventus-match/

[Socrates 9455]

Giaccherini on David’s chance and McTominay’s duty in Napoli vs. Juventus

 

 

Emanuele Giaccherini doesn’t feel Napoli are necessarily favourites in a Serie A match against Juventus, sees a ‘chance’ for Jonathan David and says Scott McTominay will have to ‘use his head’ against the Bianconeri.

 

Napoli and Juventus meet at the Stadio Maradona in the big match of Serie A Round 14 on Sunday. ............

 

Tomorrow’s encounter will be the first time Conte and Luciano Spalletti, an ex-Napoli coach, meet in a competitive match.

 

“It will be a fantastic matchup. Conte is a great professional, and he always supports the team he’s coaching,” Giaccherini said.

 

“First at Inter, now at Napoli. His heart is black and white. He made history at Juve both as a player and as a coach, but of course, right now, he wants to beat them. Last season, he deservedly won the Scudetto, something extraordinary. ............

 

Conte will have to cope without several key players, including central midfielders Kevin De Bruyne, Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Stanislav Lobotka.

 

“Lobotka’s injury is massive; he’s the brain of the team, and he brings balance, screens the defence and builds the play. Elmas and McTominay will play, but they’ll need to use their heads,” Giaccherini noted. ............

 

“Juventus can dominate. I expect a great personality and a desire to take control of the game. Spalletti has put a lot of players in their ideal positions. Koopmeiners, McKennie and Kostic have been revitalised, and Yildiz has more freedom to show his flair and talent,” continued the former midfielder.

 

“Now, they need goals from the strikers who historically score a lot under him. With Vlahovic out, it’s a chance for David to rediscover himself. After all, he’s scored over 100 goals in his career.” ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/giaccherini-david-chance-mctominay-juventus/

Modificato 18 ore fa da Socrates

[Socrates 9455]

Spalletti feels David’s ‘reaction’ before Conte and Napoli’s ‘exam’

 

 

Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti can ‘feel’ Jonathan David’s reaction, but will decide the Bianconeri’s XI for a game against Napoli tomorrow: ‘It has happened to me to change something during the night.’

 

Spalletti’s Juventus visit Napoli at the Stadio Maradona on Sunday in the big match of Serie A Round 14. ............

 

“The Juventus shirt is made for this. For winning matches,” Spalletti said at a pre-match press conference.

 

“We’re not living a great moment, but that has to be our status. It’s important because it gives you confidence, but we need to be strong and free spirits. It’s important to see that in training, we’re going out and grabbing new things.

 

“This is a match that can say a lot about the future of our league, and we’ll dedicate everything we have to it,” Spalletti continued.

 

“It’s an exam where we have to be ready. We know it’s a difficult match, we’re going to play against the champions of Italy.” ............

 

“We’ve met many times around, once we even played a friendly against each other, and we met at Coverciano,” said the Juventus boss.

 

“Conte is a good coach; he has shown that. As a person, I can’t say much because I don’t see him every day. For the rest, I go by what I see on the pitch, and he’s a top coach.” ............

 

“It doesn’t depend on words, but on the tempo, the rhythm, and what you personally want to go and grab,” Spalletti said.

 

“David is a sensitive, smart, strong guy, physically powerful, and I think he pushes himself to show what he’s really made of. He carries certain numbers behind him, and I can feel his reaction; that’s the right thing.” ............

 

“In games like these, you take all the available time before choosing the formation. I feel like I’ve got it, but it has happened to me to change something during the night.” ............

 

 

Spalletti, an ex-Napoli coach, and Juventus will likely get a hostile reception at the Maradona tomorrow.

 

“We made each other happy for two years. Incredible emotions, especially in the Scudetto season,” said the Bianconeri boss.

 

“Beautiful stories have the power of immortality, and this one will always be like that. Then I lived other important experiences: Roma, Inter, Napoli. Today I’m an opponent, and I don’t know what will happen tomorrow. I know they’re missing something in midfield, we’re missing something in defence for a while now, and so we still have to try and win. They have a past that gives them certainties, and we are searching for certainties.” ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-david-reaction-conte-napoli-exam/

[Socrates 9455]

Domenico Marocchino reveals how he thinks Juventus will approach Napoli game

 

 

Juventus are preparing for a crucial Serie A clash against Napoli this weekend, a fixture that could have significant implications for its season. Although the Bianconeri possess some of the strongest players in Italy, they risk underachieving once again if results do not improve. Recent years have followed a similar pattern, and the pressure is on to ensure they avoid another disappointing campaign. A win in Naples would go a long way towards restoring momentum. ............

 

The Bianconeri know they have the quality required to claim victory, but playing in Naples is a challenge that even experienced sides can struggle to manage. Their recent improvement offers encouragement, yet the margin for error will be slim. Both teams understand the stakes, and the early stages of the match could prove decisive in shaping the tactical approach. ............

 

Former Juventus player Domenico Marocchino has now shared his thoughts on how the club might handle the fixture. He said:

 

“In Naples, the priority will be to avoid conceding and then look for the knockout blow at the end; otherwise, they risk coming back. The coach clearly doesn’t want to dwell too much on this game, which is almost a small burden for Juve, both because of Conte’s presence on the other side and because Napoli have been stealing the show from the Bianconeri for some time. Practically speaking, little will change: I imagine Juve will travel on a private plane, so there won’t be any repercussions on their approach or the players’ condition.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/domenico-marocchino-reveals-how-he-thinks-juventus-will-approach-napoli-game/

[Socrates 9455]

Ravezzani backs Juventus decision not to sleep in Naples before match

 

 

Juventus’ preparations for their trip to Naples have taken an unexpected turn, with Luciano Spalletti choosing not to follow the usual routine for an away match of this magnitude. Traditionally, visiting teams travel to their opponents’ city the night before a fixture to ensure proper rest and avoid any disruption on matchday. Juventus have long adopted this practice, ensuring their players arrive settled, focused and physically ready for the challenge ahead.

 

However, ahead of their meeting with Napoli at the Maradona Stadium, Spalletti has surprised many by keeping his squad in Turin for the night. Instead of travelling early, the team will make the journey to Naples on the morning of the match. The decision has sparked debate among supporters and pundits, with many questioning whether such an adjustment could affect the players’ condition or mindset. ............

 

The move has been widely discussed in the media in recent hours, with many attempting to interpret the reasoning behind it. Yet for all the speculation, the Juventus boss remains focused solely on what he feels is best for his players. ............

 

One figure who supports the change is Fabio Ravezzani, who sees the logic behind avoiding a hotel stay in Naples. He explained:

 

“Spalletti is right not to take Juve to sleep in a hotel in Naples. Better a day trip than staying up half the night because of bangs and noise outside the hotel.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/journalist-backs-juventus-decision-not-to-sleep-in-naples-before-match/

Modificato 17 ore fa da Socrates

[Socrates 9455]

Antonio Cabrini expects Juventus to feel pressure of Napoli home

 

 

Antonio Cabrini has offered a detailed insight into what Juventus should expect as they prepare for a demanding away trip to Napoli this weekend. The former Juventus defender understands the unique atmosphere and intensity that await the Bianconeri, who are aiming to extend their current run of three consecutive victories. While Juventus approach the match with confidence, Napoli remains determined to defend their league crown, ensuring a highly competitive and emotionally charged encounter. ............

 

Juventus now possess several of the finest players in Italy and has begun to demonstrate a more convincing level of performance. The men in black and white regard themselves as one of the strongest sides globally and continue to work tirelessly to reaffirm that belief. Even so, the challenge of playing in Naples is widely recognised within football. The home support is famously passionate and can create an atmosphere that affects even the most experienced opponents. Juventus, accustomed to performing in hostile stadiums, must prove that they can rise above the intensity and maintain their composure. Despite this familiarity with difficult environments, the trip to Napoli is expected to be one of their most testing away fixtures of the season. ............

 

Cabrini offered his reflections on what the Bianconeri can anticipate. He explained, “Playing in Naples is a different kind of away game, you can take Maradona’s pressure or react with strength and personality. That is a stadium that can both energise you and potentially put pressure on you. Of course, when we came there, and Maradona was there, everything was more complicated, regardless of the crowd.” His comments underline the dual nature of the environment, which can either lift a visiting player’s performance or unsettle a team unable to withstand the atmosphere. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/antonio-cabrini-expects-juventus-to-feel-pressure-of-napoli-home/

[Socrates 9455]

Giaccherini explains why Napoli are not favourites

 

 

Juventus head into the weekend on a three-match winning run, yet many observers continue to regard Napoli as favourites for their upcoming meeting. Napoli remain the defending champions of Serie A and will enjoy home advantage against a Juventus side whose confidence has been fragile in recent months. Juve have found it difficult to maintain consistency and secure the number of victories they would have hoped for, leaving questions about whether they can produce their best form in Naples. Although the men in black and white believe in their prospects this season, they must demonstrate their quality by winning key fixtures, something they have not consistently achieved in recent weeks. ............

 

The match in Naples presents a significant test, particularly given Juve’s struggle to sustain momentum. While they remain optimistic, there is still uncertainty about how they will cope with a Napoli side that aims to defend its league crown and has shown signs of improvement. The men in black and white understand that their title ambitions depend on meeting high-level challenges with composure and authority. Their recent results offer encouragement, yet questions linger over whether they can rise to the occasion in one of the most demanding stadiums in Italy. The pressure will be substantial, and Juve will need to manage both the environment and the quality of the opposition if they are to maintain their positive run. ............

 

Former Juventus midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini, who has been closely monitoring both clubs this season, does not share the widespread belief that Napoli holds a clear advantage. He said, “Lobotka’s injury is extremely serious, he is the mind, he provides balance, he filters, he dictates things. Elmas and McTominay will play, but they will have to use their heads. Napoli are rediscovering their identity and individuality, like Neres and Lang, but Juve are doing well mentally, they are coming off three straight wins, and Spalletti’s work is evident. I do not think Napoli are the favourites, the match is still open.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/former-juventus-star-explains-why-napoli-are-not-favourites/

[Socrates 9455]

Napoli vs Juventus: Preview and Prediction

 

 

Headlining Matchday 14 of Serie A, Italian heavyweights Napoli and Juventus collide at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday in a clash rich with history, subplots, and renewed ambition. Both clubs have rediscovered their rhythm in recent weeks, and this meeting carries added spice as Antonio Conte and Luciano Spalletti, two managers deeply woven into the fabric of their opponent’s history, face each other for the first time. ............

 

The match is also layered with personal history. Conte returns to face a Juventus side for whom he served with distinction as both player and manager, guiding the Bianconeri to three straight Scudetti from 2012-2014. On the opposite bench, Spalletti meets Napoli for the first time since delivering their long-awaited league title in 2023.

 

Juventus arrive in Naples with their own sense of renewal. Under Spalletti, they remain unbeaten in all competitions, with four wins and three draws reflecting a more organised and balanced approach compared to the chaotic early season. Their recent victories over Bodo/Glimt in Europe, Cagliari in Serie A, and Udinese in the Coppa Italia have reintroduced a sense of purpose to a squad that had lost direction.

 

Though Juve sit outside the top six, this match presents an opportunity to stake a claim in an increasingly crowded title race. They trail Napoli by five points, but a statement victory at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, something they have not achieved since 2019, could dramatically shift the narrative.

 

What elevates the stakes further is Napoli’s six-match winning streak at home against Juventus, a run that has flipped the historical balance between the clubs. Once dominated by the Bianconeri, the fixture has firmly swung in favour of the Southerners in recent years. The Hard Tackle takes a look at how the clubs could line up on the night and what tactics they might employ.

Team News & Tactics

SSC Napoli

 ............

 

Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Buongiorno; Di Lorenzo, Elmas, McTominay, Olivera; Neres, Lang; Hojlund

Juventus

Juventus enter this marquee clash carrying several significant absences, particularly in defence and attack. The most damaging setback remains the long-term injury to Dusan Vlahovic, who has been ruled out until 2026 with an adductor issue. As a result, Luciano Spalletti must once again turn to either Lois Openda or Jonathan David to lead the line. David was preferred in midweek and scored in the Coppa Italia, which strengthens his case for retaining the starting role.

 

At the back, Juve continue to deal with a depleted centre-back department. Federico Gatti, Gleison Bremer, and Daniele Rugani are all unavailable, forcing Spalletti to improvise with makeshift defensive combinations. The return of first-choice goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio against Udinese was a welcome boost, but his protection will rely heavily on adaptability from the remaining defensive personnel.

 

In midfield and attack, Juventus will once again pin their creative hopes on Kenan Yildiz, who has been outstanding this season. However, it is worth noting that all seven of his Serie A goal involvements have come at the Allianz Stadium, raising questions about whether he can replicate that influence away from home in one of Italy’s most intimidating venues.

 

Juventus’s 3-4-2-1 structure offers Spalletti tactical flexibility, especially in transitions, but the lack of defensive depth could become a major factor against a fluid Napoli attack.

 

Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Kelly, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Kostic; Conceicao, Yildiz; David

Key Stats

• Napoli have not lost a single home league match in exactly one year, recording 15 wins and five draws during that span. Avoiding defeat on Sunday would mark their first full calendar year unbeaten at home since 1987.
• The Partenopei have won all of the last six home meetings against Juventus at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, Napoli’s longest such streak against the Bianconeri in Serie A’s modern era.
• Since Luciano Spalletti’s arrival, Juve have recorded four wins and three draws across all competitions. This run includes victories in Serie A, the Champions League, and the Coppa Italia.
• Napoli have conceded only one goal in their last four competitive matches, all of which were victories. Juventus, meanwhile, have kept three straight clean sheets under Spalletti.
• Kenan Yildiz has been involved in seven league goals this season, but all seven have come in home matches. He has yet to produce a goal or assist away from Turin.

Player to Watch

Scott McTominay

 ............

 

Prediction

SSC Napoli 2-1 Juventus

With both sides rediscovering form and boasting managers who know their opponents intimately, this fixture promises to be a cagey, high-level tactical battle. Napoli hold two clear advantages: home supremacy, having gone a full calendar year without losing a Serie A match at the Maradona, and the momentum of a four-match winning streak across all competitions.

 

Antonio Conte’s shift to a more compact, vertically aggressive 3-4-2-1 has restored defensive balance while unleashing key attackers like David Neres and Jesper Lindstrom in advanced half-spaces. Juventus, however, are no longer the disjointed outfit seen in early autumn.

 

Luciano Spalletti has stabilised the Bianconeri with efficient, direct transitions and improved defensive structure. Even without Dusan Vlahovic, Juve have found reliable attacking contributions from Kenan Yildiz and Jonathan David, though their creative ceiling remains lower than Napoli’s, especially away from home.

 

The absence of three centre-backs, Gleison Bremer, Daniele Rugani, and Federico Gatti, could also expose structural weaknesses against a Napoli frontline that thrives on movement and quick combinations.

 

Ultimately, Napoli’s home form, superior cohesion, and midfield edge through Scott McTominay and Stanislav Lobotka’s replacements tilt the balance their way, though Juventus possess enough defensive resilience to avoid a collapse.

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Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2025/12/06/napoli-vs-juventus-preview-and-prediction-3/

[Socrates 9455]

Round 14: Juventus vs. Napoli match preview

 

 

These days, Juventus going to Naples to face Napoli is always going to be a very, very important domestic fixture. Napoli are, as much as you might hate it, one of the standards in Serie A these days, and that is a place in which Juventus are trying to return to rather than being whatever the heck you wanna describe them as the past few years. Napoli are, begrudgingly, the club that has won two of the last three Serie A titles, and they’ve done their most recent triumph with the same guy who kicked off Juve’s decade full of dominance during the 2010s. ............

 

A game that always has plenty of narrative these days has added an even greater, incredibly shiny bald-headed layer to it. That is because Sunday night’s showdown between defending champions Napoli and visiting Juventus at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona will be a managerial matchup between the two guys last to win a title in Naples. You will have Antonio Conte on one side, and then you’ll have Luciano Spalletti in his first trip back to the Maradona on the other. One guy was Juve’s captain and one so much as coach in Turin, while the other won Napoli’s first Scudetto since 1990 and got a big fat tattoo to show for it. It’s narrative galore, and the kind of matchup between two very good managers that will have the Italian press licking their chops at all of the possibilities of what to talk about.

 

But don’t forget this: it’s also second place hosting seventh place, with the latter truly trying to make a statement when it comes to their ability to turn things around under their new manager. ............

 

After three straight draws on either side of the international break, Juventus head to Naples with their best (yet still brief) run of form under Spalletti, with three straight wins that just so happen to come in three different competitions. Juve’s got their first win in the Champions League, they actually beat a bottom-half team in Cagliari and then won their Coppa Italia opener on Tuesday night. That’s something, and the first time they’ve won three fixtures in a row since September.

 

Of course, Juve also head to Naples far from full strength. They’re going to be without the best defender. They’re going to be without the most in-form option at the No. 9 position. They’re down to the bare bones of their depth in defense. This is far from how Spalletti wants to face the defending champions on their home turf.

 

The counterpoint is that Napoli are far from healthy as well. Conte’s side will take the field against Juventus without a good number of their biggest names, with midfielder Stanislav Lobotka being the latest injury doubt for Napoli. They have won four games on the bounce in all competitions, but it’s not like Napoli are completely untouchable this season by any means. Conte has, to his credit, seemingly gone back to a setup that made Napoli so successful last season to try and cope with a lot of the injuries, and the fact that they’re still right in the mix in a very crowded top four that is only separated by one measly point is a testament to the job he can do.

 

No matter if it’s been with Spalletti or now Conte, Napoli have dominated the head-to-head matchup in recent years, winning four of their last six games against Juventus in Serie A. ............

 

 

TEAM NEWS

• Just in case you’re wondering how things are going on the injury front, there was not one but two Juventus players undergoing surgery to repair injuries they’ve suffered within the past week. So, yeah … they’re great. ............
• Those two healthy center backs, by the way, are Pierre Kalulu and Lloyd Kelly. With Spalletti expected to stick with a back three and Teun Koopmeiners playing as a left-sided center back the past month, it’s pretty easy to figure out what Juventus’ defense will look like against Napoli. ............
• • Spalletti has decided that Juve will not travel to southern Italy the day before the clash with Napoli as has been the case for years now. Instead, they will leave Sunday morning to try and avoid the notorious antics from Napoli supporters at the team hotel the night before.

   

  JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH

  We won’t be seeing Dusan Vlahovic in a Juventus jersey until winter turns to spring. That means the next four months will be quite the interesting time for Luciano Spalletti and Juve to figure out how they want to take this attack forward this season (and likely beyond that).

  What better way to go into December than with somebody who has “Iceman” as his nickname? ............

   

   

  If we are to believe the reports coming out of Italy to end the work week, it will probably be Jonathan David starting in Vlahovic’s spot when Juventus take on Napoli. Considering David has had a productive last couple of weeks, that feels like the right kind of move for Spalletti — especially when you consider just how much the club has thought Canada’s all-time leading scorer would be at the heart of the forward line from the get-go this season.

   

  Is this the way we would have liked to see David get his first real shot at consistent playing time at Juve?

   

  No, of course not. But when you consider the fact that we were sitting here just a few months ago thinking that it would be David starting more often than not and Vlahovic wouldn’t even be at the club … well, this is basically that in a weird way for these next three or four months at least.

   

  Where Loïs Openda fits into all this still remains to be seen. Spalletti has already said that they are different kinds of strikers, so it’s something that might allow them to play alongside each other more often as the season goes on. But, for now (and as long as Kenan Yildiz is still cooking), you feel like there’s going to be a one or the other kind of decision for Spalletti.

   

  David, thankfully, is starting to show signs off life after his difficult start to life in Turin. His performance against Udinese was one of his best since donning bianconero for the first time. Say what you want about the lineup that Udinese had out there — and it certainly wasn’t 100% first choice — but David needs to keep putting those types of performances together. Goals, goal contributions, whatever — he needs to continue to build.

   

  Facing Napoli will be one of his biggest tests to date since he signed with Juventus. But if Juve believe he can be a striker to build the squad around, there’s no better time than now to show just that.

   

  MATCH INFO

  When: Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025.

  Where: Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, Naples, Italy.

  Official kickoff time: 8:45 p.m. local time in Italy and across Europe, 7:45 p.m. in the United Kingdom, 2:45 p.m. Eastern time, 1:45 p.m. Central time, 11:45 a.m. Pacific time.

Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/34356/napoli-juventus-antonio-conte-luciano-spalletti-2025-serie-a-matchday-14-competition-preview-team-news-schedule-how-to-watch

[Socrates 9455]

Napoli vs Juventus – Preview and Predictions

 

 

Reigning Serie A title holders Napoli take on record-time Italian champions Juventus in a mouth-watering league fixture at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday night. Five points separate the sides ahead of the kick-off, with the hosts sitting second in the table, level on points with Milan. ............

 

On the other hand, Juventus scored on either side of halftime in their Coppa Italia last-16 tie, beating Udinese 2-0. Furthermore, Luciano Spalletti’s side beat Cagliari 2-1 in Serie A last weekend, bouncing back from back-to-back league draws against Torino and Fiorentina.

 

With both teams entering this round amid rich veins of form, this blockbuster clash promises to be an electric, hard-fought contest with major title implications. Fans worldwide are gearing up for this high-stakes showdown, with interest surging across traditional markets and even crypto sports betting platforms as anticipation reaches its peak.

Full-Time Result

Conte could make history this season and become the first manager to lead Napoli to successive Serie A titles after last season’s triumph. Despite suffering three defeats in the opening 13 rounds, the Partenopei remain firmly in the Scudetto race, largely thanks to their formidable home form. ............

 

Despite piecing together a four-game winning streak in all competitions, Juventus must improve their away performances to get their Scudetto pursuit back on track. Perhaps surprisingly, Spalletti’s lads have conceded at least once in their last eight competitive matches on the road (W2, D3, L3) since beating Genoa 1-0 in August.

 

Juventus have only won one of their five away league fixtures since that narrow triumph at Stadio Luigi Ferraris (D2, L2). Ominously, both defeats in that sequence came against fellow current top-half sides and saw the Bianconeri fail to get on the scoresheet.

 

If it’s any consolation, the Turin giants have shown admirable mental strength under Spalletti, fighting back from a deficit to claim at least a point three times already. Yet, conceding first in Naples could set the tone for another forgettable meeting with the Partenopei.

 

Prediction: Napoli to Win

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Read more -> https://cultofcalcio.com/napoli-vs-juventus-betting-preview-full-time-over-under-predictions/

[Socrates 9455]

Official Juventus squad list for Napoli trip: Five players out, Next Gen duo included

 

 

On Sunday morning, Juventus released their matchday squad for the evening showdown against Napoli at the Stadio Maradona.

 

Whenever the club is playing away from home, the list is usually released on the eve of the match. However, the Bianconeri opted for a different arrangement this time.

 

Instead of travelling to Naples on Saturday afternoon, they delayed their flight to Sunday morning, as they didn’t want to spend the night in a hostile environment, where Partenopei fans could gather around the team’s hotel and prevent them from enjoying a good night’s sleep. ............

 

Luciano Spalletti has called up 22 players for his highly anticipated return to his old ground. He will have to do without five injured first-team players, including Federico Gatti and Dusan Vlahovic, who both underwent surgeries on Thursday. ............

 

Juventus will also be without their third-choice custodian Carlo Pinsoglio, who is also struggling with an injury. Nonetheless, the good news is that Mattia Perin has recovered from a slight discomfort that kept him out of the squad in Tuesday’s Coppa Italia tie against Udinese.

 

Due to the limited options at the back, Juventus Next Gen defender Pedro Felipe has been added to the squad, and the same goes for young goalkeeper Simone Scaglia. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/official-juventus-squad-list-for-napoli-trip-five-players-out-next-gen-duo-included/

[Socrates 9455]

Napoli vs Juventus probable lineups: A midfield run-off for Spalletti

 

 

The Stadio Maradona will witness one of the most-awaited fixtures of the Serie A campaign, as Luciano Spalletti returns to Napoli as the Juventus head coach. The contest kicks off on Sunday at 20:45 CET. ............

 

After losing Stanislav Lobotka, Napoli find themselves with a completely ravaged midfield, as Kevin De Bruyne, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Billy Gilmour are also missing. Moreover, Romelu Lukaku has yet to make his return to action. ............

 

Spalletti will also adopt an almost identical 3-4-2-1 system. Jonathan David is expected to spearhead the charge in the absence of Dusan Vlahovic, even though Lois Openda could be an option. Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceicao will act as the supporting crew.

 

Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli will certainly start, but the identity of his midfield partner remains uncertain.

 

Khephren Thuram could maintain his regular place, but Fabio Miretti has done enough to usurp the Frenchman in the hierarchy. ............

 

Napoli & Juventus expected lineups

Napoli XI (3-4-3): Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Buongiorno; Di Lorenzo, Elmas, McTominay, Olivera; Neres, Hojlund, Lang

Juventus XI (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Kelly, Koopmeiners; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram (Miretti), Cambiaso; Conceiçao, Yildiz; David. 

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/napoli-vs-juventus-probable-lineups-a-midfield-run-off-for-spalletti/

[Socrates 9455]

Conte and Spalletti clash for the first time: How they managed to avoid each other

 

 

Antonio Conte and Luciano Spalletti are set to face off for the first time in their careers when Napoli host Juventus at the Stadio Maradona on Sunday evening, but how have the coaches managed to avoid each other so far?

 

Sunday’s Serie A headliner is a thriller between Napoli and Juventus: The Partenopei will move back to the top of the table if they claim victory this evening, while the Bianconeri require three points to match the pace of the rest of the teams involved in the early Champions League race.

 

Both sides have their injury concerns to contend with. ............

 

Bizarrely, this will be the first time that Conte and Spalletti have played against each other as head coaches.

 

That is because Conte began his coaching career in Serie B with Arezzo and Bari between 2006 and 2009, while Spalletti was in charge of Roma in Serie A.

 

Spalletti then spent five years in Russia as head coach of Zenit St. Petersburg between 2009 and 2014, which is why he never faced off against Conte while he was in charge of Atalanta, Siena or Juventus.

 

Conte would then go on to take charge of the Italy national team between 2014 and 2016, before going on to coach Chelsea for two years between 2016 and 2018, which is why he did not play against Spalletti during his second stint in charge of Roma in 2016-17. ............

 

Spalletti’s next job was as the head coach of Inter from 2017 to 2019, where he was replaced by Conte, who led the Nerazzurri from 2019 to 2021.

 

Conte would then go on to take over as head coach of Tottenham Hotspur in 2021, lasting until 2023, while Spalletti headed south to take charge of Napoli during the same time period. ............

 

Spalletti was then named head coach of the Italy national team in the summer of 2023, lasting two years until 2025, which is why has not met Conte at club level over the past two seasons.

 

And now in 2025-26, Spalletti and Conte get their historic first meeting against each other in a major clash in the race for the Serie A title and Champions League positions.

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/how-conte-spalletti-managed-to-avoid-eachother/

Modificato 38 minuti fa da Socrates

[Socrates 9455]

“Tremendous emotion” – Spalletti cherishes Napoli return, urges Juventus duo to improve

 

 

Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti is excited about his much-anticipated return to the Stadio Maradona, as he prepares to reunite with his former Napoli players.

 

The 66-year-old guided the Partenopei towards their third Scudetto title in 2023, ending a long and agonising 33-year drought. ............

 

At this stage, it remains unclear how Spalletti will be received at the Maradona, but the man himself is thrilled with his return to the ground.

 

“It will be a tremendous emotion because I spent two wonderful seasons there,” said the former Napoli boss in his interview.

 

“We shared so much with Napoli and the people of Naples. As in other cities, I met wonderful people whom I will always carry in my heart.

 

“But then each of our professions tells us to move forward, and tomorrow we’ll be adversaries. These stories have the power of immortality, and the one with Naples will remain so forever.” ............

 

“Vlahovic’s absence can be an opportunity for others too, not just David and Openda. I hope to give as many players as possible a chance; I need more starters.

 

“David and Openda are two strong players who have shown signs of improvement recently. I expect them to go even further because they have more potential than they’ve shown.”

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/spalletti-napoli-juventus-david-openda/