JUVENTUS SEASON 2025-2026

[Socrates 9563]

Spalletti opens up on penalty debacle, new Juventus formation: “I thought it’d make you happy”

 

 

Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti discussed some of the most interesting takeaways from his side’s disappointing 1-1 draw against Lecce.

The Bianconeri entered the new year riding a five-match winning streak across all competitions. However, the purple patch reached a sudden halt on Saturday, as they failed to beat the resilient Salentines at home. ............

 

After maintaining Igor Tudor’s 3-4-2-1 formation over the last two months, Spalletti unleashed a 4-2-3-1 system against Lecce, and he felt it paid dividends, despite what the final result suggests.

 

“Happy is not the right word. It’s difficult for me to say that, but I’m trying not to be devastated by the result that came out of it. Happiness is something different,” said the 66-year-old in his post-match press conference.

 

“Over my coaching career, many things have happened to me, but I try not to dwell on it or torment myself by thinking only about that, because it hurts. Then I go home and try to prepare tomorrow’s training as well as possible.

 

“If Juventus play many matches like this, in the long run we’ll end up with the result we deserve, beyond the incident that went against us and cost us points along the way.” ............

 

“Tonight we played in a 4-2-3-1, and I thought it’d make you all happy (referring to the journalists). Instead, you’re sad.

 

“McKennie today played as an attacking midfielder and was rewarded because he knows how to do these things very well. Among his many roles, this is one of the ones he performs best.”

 

The biggest talking point from the contest was Jonathan David’s abysmal spot-kick. The Canadian sent a weak shot to the middle, and it was blocked by Wladimiro Falcone’s trailing leg. ............

 

“It’s always the same discussion. Those who didn’t take it could have missed it as well. David is a penalty taker because he knows how to take them; Locatelli can take them too, and so can Yildiz.

 

“Then there’s also the emotional side, because taking a penalty carries a big responsibility. Whether the players allowed him to take the penalty is something I’ll find out tomorrow, but I won’t go against that decision because David is a designated penalty taker. I don’t blame that choice.

 

“We played a good match. There’s no need to put in prison either the one who decided to take the penalty or the one who left it.” ............

 

“We have to score earlier, because in the first five minutes we got there four times. The penalty is one incident, a close-range chance is another. We put 10–15 balls into the area just behind the six-yard box… it should have gone that way.

 

“In the first five minutes on the bench, we were looking at each other (perplexed). David, from a metre and a half out, hit the goalkeeper’s leg… these are important details. Kenan has already hit the inside of the post twice, and the ball has gone across the face of goal.

 

“That’s something we have to accept and move on, hoping this failure to win doesn’t affect the players mentally.”

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/spalletti-opens-up-on-penalty-debacle-new-juventus-formation/

[Socrates 9563]

Sacchi: Juventus need new signings after incomprehensible David miss

 

 

Arrigo Sacchi has had his say on Juventus’s underwhelming draw at home against Lecce in Serie A on Saturday evening, and feels that the Bianconeri may need to dip into the transfer market to help Spalletti move away from the ‘incomprehensible’ Jonathan David and the misfiring Lois Openda. ............

 

Those aspirations have taken somewhat of a dent after Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Lecce, as Inter could now move six points clear of the Old Lady with a game in hand if they are to beat Bologna on Sunday evening. ............

 

“This result is a demonstration that there are no easy challenges in Serie A,” Sacchi wrote in his column.

 

“On the eve of the match, everyone was thinking about a fourth consecutive Bianconeri victory, bringing them back in the mix for that big target, but instead, Di Francesco’s team did the business thanks to their courageous conduct based on spirit, sacrifice and a pinch of luck.

 

“Spalletti’s Juve did not make that leap in quality that was expected of them,” Sacchi continued. “That is despite the fact that there were numerous opportunities to score, including a penalty that was wasted by David with a truly incomprehensible shot.

 

“I wonder how it is possible for a centre-forward who has not scored since the opening game of the season to shoot like that, with a chip that wasn’t even really a chip.” ............

 

“The first thing, which is evident to everyone, is the softness of the attack. David misses a penalty, Openda misses a fairly easy shot into an empty net towards the end. It makes me think that these are not the ideal offensive components for the way Spalletti wants to play. He’s an experienced coach who loves good football, but he still has to work a lot to get what he wants.” ............

 

“The directors will probably have to help him with some signings in the transfer window.” Sacchi wrote.

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/sacchi-juventus-need-new-signings/

[Socrates 9563]

Boost for Juventus as tests rule out injuries for two regular starters

 

 

Juventus have received positive news on Sunday afternoon, as Francisco Conceicao and Lloyd Kelly have avoided injuries. ............

 

Having missed last weekend’s trip to Pisa due to a slight physical problem, the Portuguese winger’s return to the lineup made for a pleasant pre-match surprise. However, he was replaced by Edon Zhegrova at the break.

 

As reported this morning, Conceicao once again felt some discomfort in his left thigh, which prompted his premature exit. ............

 

Therefore, the 23-year-old reported to the J|Medical Centre on Sunday to undergo the necessary clinical tests.

 

Conceicao was also joined by Kelly, who felt pain in his right thigh, although he was able to grit his teeth and remain on the pitch for the duration of the contest.

 

According to correspondent Marco Baridon, the tests have ruled out muscle injuries for both players. ............

 

While Luciano Spalletti and his staff can breathe a sigh of relief, Conceicao and Kelly might not necessarily be available for the midweek trip to Sassuolo.

 

With only 48 hours separating us from Tuesday’s Serie A contest, there might not be enough margins for recovery.

 

Hence, Juventus could simply decide to leave the Portuguese winger and English defender behind in Turin to avoid any risks. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-tests-injuries-francisco-conceicao-lloyd-kelly/

[Socrates 9563]

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

 

 

After letting two points slip through their grasp at the weekend, Juventus will seek an immediate response when they visit mid-table Sassuolo on Tuesday.

 

Making for a frustrating start to 2026, both sides were held to a 1-1 draw by Serie A strugglers last time out.

 

---

Match preview

Aiming to start a new year as they finished the last, resurgent Juventus sought their fifth straight win when welcoming Lecce to Turin on Saturday evening - but they ultimately came up short.

 

Following three consecutive league victories - plus another in Europe - Juve coach Luciano Spalletti was even open to discussing a Scudetto challenge, while their visitors from down south were merely fighting for survival.

 

However, the hosts conceded a goal against the run of play in first-half stoppage time, before Weston McKennie’s first Serie A strike of the season hauled them level just after the break.

 

Jonathan David - who had hit the woodwork with an early header - then clipped a weak penalty straight at Lecce goalkeeper Wladimiro Falcone; finally, Kenan Yildiz struck the post and Lois Openda blazed over.

 

While Spalletti, whose initial contract expires at the end of this season, has led the Bianconeri’s recent revival - posting seven wins from eight to end 2025 - his talk of a title push appears to be wishful.

 

On Tuesday, his side will aim to avoid losing more ground to their top-four rivals, with several clubs still chasing Champions League places. ............

 

Sassuolo Serie A form:

L W D L D D

 

Juventus Serie A form:

W L W W W D

Juventus form (all competitions):

L W W W W D

 

---

Team News

Since arriving in Turin, Spalletti has sprung plenty of surprises - both in terms of setup and selection - so it remains to be seen whether Juventus make changes.

 

After his calamitous spot-kick against Lecce, David could make way for Openda, with last term’s top scorer Dusan Vlahovic still on the treatment table.

 

Juve are also missing injured centre-backs Daniele Rugani and Federico Gatti, but utility man Teun Koopmeiners offers an additional option in defence. ............

 

Sassuolo possible starting lineup:

Muric; Walukiewicz, Idzes, Muharemovic, Cande; Thorstvedt, Matic, Kone; Fadera, Pinamonti, Lauriente

 

Juventus possible starting lineup:

Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Concecicao, Yildiz; Openda

 

 

We say: Sassuolo 1-1 Juventus

Having beaten Lazio and Atalanta - and drawn 2-2 with AC Milan - Sassuolo have already proven they can compete.

 

While their form has tailed off in recent weeks, Juve are improving - but the brittle Bianconeri still have obvious flaws.

 

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Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/sassuolo/preview/sassuolo-vs-juventus-prediction-team-news-lineups_589152.html

[Socrates 9563]

[Socrates 9563]

[Socrates 9563]

[Socrates 9563]

Serie A | Sassuolo 0-3 Juventus: David breaks drought in style

 

 

Jonathan David made up for last week’s error with a goal and assist as Juventus swept Sassuolo aside, plus Fabio Miretti and a Tarik Muharemovic own goal.

 

The Bianconeri caught Roma in fourth place at the weekend, despite a disappointing 1-1 draw with Lecce. Jonathan David missed a dire penalty in that game, but kept his spot. ............

 

Kenan Yildiz robbed Sebastian Walukiewicz to really trouble Arijanet Muric with a powerful strike at the near post, Andrea Cambiaso firing the rebound onto the side-netting, then Khephren Thuram also tested the goalkeeper soon after.

 

Juventus took the lead with a bit of luck, as Muric was off his line and unable to scramble back when Tarik Muharemovic deflected the Pierre Kalulu cross from the right into his own net. ............

 

Muric denied Thuram at the near stick after a quick passing move involving David and Cambiaso, then Fabio Miretti ballooned over off balance from 12 yards on a David roll across.

 

Juventus finally made their dominance count when a long Michele Di Gregorio ball was knocked down and sent Miretti through, out-running two defenders to fire past the on-rushing Muric. ............

 

Moments later, Sassuolo were shaken and gave away a third. David pounced on the weak Jay Idzes back-pass and dribbled around Muric, keeping his cool to beat Sebastian Walukiewicz who had got back on the line. The entire Juventus bench ran on to celebrate with the Canadian, hitting back at rumours he had failed to bond with his teammates, as it was his first Serie A goal in 16 games.

 

There was nearly a fourth too after another Sassuolo error in the box, but this time David fired over the bar. ............

 

 

Sassuolo 0-3 Juventus

Muharemovic og 16 (J), Miretti 62 (J), David 63 (J)  ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/serie-a-sassuolo-0-3-juventus-david-enddrought/

Modificato Mercoledì alle 20:45 da Socrates

[Socrates 9563]

Juventus thrash Sassuolo to earn first win of 2026

 

 

Juventus secured their first win of 2026 with a convincing 3–0 victory over Sassuolo, delivering a performance that underlined their quality. The Bianconeri were aware they faced a difficult task, given Sassuolo’s strong home record against them, and understood that a focused and authoritative display would be required to return to winning ways.

 

 

Coming off a disappointing draw against Lecce, a match many expected Juventus to win, the emphasis was firmly on making amends. From the opening stages, Juventus played with intensity and purpose. ............

 

Juventus’ pressure was eventually rewarded when Tarik Muharemovic put the ball into his own net, handing the visitors the opening goal. The lead was deserved, as Juventus had dictated the tempo and forced Sassuolo into mistakes. They continued to press in search of a second goal, although the hosts responded by tightening their defensive shape to avoid further damage before the break. ............

 

Sassuolo emerged after the interval with renewed intent, sensing an opportunity to get back into the contest. However, Juventus remained composed and quickly reasserted its dominance. Their second goal arrived through Fabio Miretti, who finished well after being set up by Jonathan David.

 

Momentum firmly swung in Juventus’ favour, and just a minute later, David added his name to the scoresheet to make it 3–0. That goal effectively ended the contest, allowing the Bianconeri to see out the remainder of the match with confidence and control. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-thrash-sassuolo-to-earn-first-win-of-2026/

[Socrates 9563]

Player ratings: Sassuolo 0-3 Juventus: David redemption, defensive errors

 

 

Jonathan David was awarded the player of the match award after providing an assist and a goal in just over a minute as Juventus picked up a 3-0 victory on the road against Sassuolo in Serie A on Tuesday night. ............

 

Sassuolo: Muric 6; Walukiewicz 5 (Odentahl n/a), Idzes 4, Muharemovic 4, Doig 5; Thorstvedt 6 (Fadera 5.5), Matic 6 (Lipani 6), Kone 5.5; Iannoni 5 (Vranckx 6), Pinamonti 5, Lauriente 5 (Pierini 6).

 

Best Sassuolo player: -

 

Coach: Fabio Grosso 4.5 –  ............

 

Juventus: Di Gregorio 6; Kalulu 7, Bremer 6, Koopmeiners 6; McKennie 6.5 (J.Mario 6), Locatelli 6, Thuram 6, Cambiaso 6 (Cabal n/a); Miretti 7 (Zhegrova n/a), Yildiz 7 (Adzic n/a); David 7.5 (Openda 6).

 

Best Juventus player: Jonathan David 7.5 – What a brilliant way to respond after a difficult weekend for the Canada international. He earned his fair share of criticism after a particularly poor display against Lecce last time out, but bounced back with an assist and then a goal for himself within the space of two minutes in the second half, which didn’t just change the game, but ended it. A big breakthrough for David, who had not scored in Serie A since the opening weekend of the 2025-26 season.

 

Coach: Luciano Spalletti – Juventus enjoyed the lion’s share of possession and looked threatening each time they ventured forwards in the first half. They were rewarded with a stroke of luck 17 minutes in, but it had felt like that goal was coming. It was a similar situation in the second half as well before it went 2-0 and then 3-0 in quick succession. Spalletti held his nerve to keep David on as well – his assistant had suggested subbing him off for Openda a few moments before the Canadian’s assist and goal.

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/ratings-sassuolo-0-3-juventus-david-redemption/

Modificato Mercoledì alle 21:00 da Socrates

[Socrates 9563]

David: ‘What hurt me the most, but I appreciate Juventus celebration’

 

 

Jonathan David reveals what ‘hurt me the most’ after criticism of the missed penalty, as he ‘appreciates’ the Juventus celebrations this evening after a goal against Sassuolo.

 

The Bianconeri needed a boost after their disappointing weekend 1-1 draw with Lecce, where Jonathan David’s weak attempted Panenka penalty was saved. ............

 

“I think it’s a good goal, it comes at the right time for myself and the team,” David sayd.

 

“At the end of the day, the most important thing is that we get back on the winning track.”

 

When David scored, the entire squad ran over to celebrate the end of his 16-match Serie A goal drought, including coach Luciano Spalletti and the players who were on the bench.

 

“Yeah, I saw him there. It’s a nice touch, everyone here is so supportive of me and the team, so it’s a great omen that everyone can celebrate together. I really appreciate this,” smiled the Canadian. ............

 

“What hurt me the most after the missed penalty was that it felt like a loss, even though we drew. That’s what hurt me the most, as winning is the most important thing. After that, I know the games come fast, so I try to pass to the next game and focus on that.

 

“When I take penalties, I try to change and keep the goalkeeper guessing. I didn’t hit this one the way I wanted, and that’s why it didn’t go in.” ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/david-what-hurt-most-but-i-appreciate-juventus/

[Socrates 9563]

Spalletti: ‘David felt team protect him, but Juventus still at 80 per cent’

 

 

Luciano Spalletti believes Jonathan David ‘sensed’ the Juventus squad protecting him after the ‘insults’ over his missed penalty, but the coach is still not satisfied with a 3-0 win over Sassuolo. ............

 

Notably, the entire squad ran over to celebrate with David, including Spalletti and everyone who was on the bench, despite the rumours he hadn’t bonded with his teammates.

 

“Everyone had taken a firm stance, because it’s different when you are inside a situation, so when you receive all those insults and comments, I would’ve been surprised if the team hadn’t acted as a shield to protect him,” Spalletti said.

 

“He sensed that during the last few days, and put in a great performance tonight. Seeing as he scored a goal too, that just confirmed how many friends he has in the locker room.” ............

 

It was a dominant overall performance from the Bianconeri, who kept Sassuolo pinned back into their own half.

 

“The team worked well when Sassuolo tried to build out from the back, we prevented them ever having superiority in midfield, though of course this means running some risks when defending. We have some very strong defenders and can afford that, but what made the difference was dominating the game, so when Sassuolo did attack, they were tired and had been chasing us around, so weren’t that effective.

 

“At times we played without a centre-forward, as David would drop further back and create the space for Miretti to run into, so they did that very well.” ............

 

“The last two performances have been great, but we still need to understand certain things, and do it as quickly as possible, because there are times when our attitude is no better than the bare minimum,” insisted Spalletti.

 

“We tend to only show 80 per cent of our capabilities and no more, we don’t go determined enough into the challenges, we had three or four corners where we didn’t even manage to get it into the box. When you are away from home, you can’t be so wasteful, as we have players who are so good in the air and aren’t getting the service on set plays.” ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/spalletti-david-felt-team-protect-him-juventus/

Modificato Mercoledì alle 21:18 da Socrates

[Socrates 9563]

Grosso: ‘Juventus deserve credit’ for crushing Sassuolo

 

 

Fabio Grosso admits ‘Juventus deserve credit’ for dominating the performance against his Sassuolo, but it’s ‘part of the growth process’ for a newly-promoted team. ............

 

They were unlucky on the opening goal, as Tarek Muharemovic’s deflection took the Pierre Kalulu cross past Arijanet Muric, who it seems Juventus knew would stray off his line and leave the net vulnerable.

 

However, Juve dominated throughout with numerous chances, making it stick in the second half with Fabio Miretti and Jonathan David pouncing on defensive errors. ............

 

“We had prepared it in a different way to how we actually played, but Juventus deserve credit for that,” Grosso said.

 

“We emerge defeated, but it is part of the growth process, we will recharge our batteries and learn from this. ............

 

Juve deserve credit for taking control, as in these games you need to raise your level and hope the opponents are not at 100 per cent.” ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/grosso-juventus-credit-for-crushing-sassuolo/

[Socrates 9563]

 Sassuolo 0 - Juventus 3: Initial reaction and random observations

 

 

Juventus may have taken a 1-0 lead into the half against Sassuolo on Tuesday night, but it was certainly looking like one of those cases in which you were just left wanting a little more. You wanted another goal, not to be in a situation where one mistake — a lot like we saw against Lecce just three days ago — was suddenly changing the scope of the game no matter how much Juve had dominated the opening half.

 

Less than 20 minutes into the second half, all of that changed.

 

And changed quickly, too.

 

All within less than two minutes, Jonathan David sett up Fabio Miretti’s first goal of the season and then the Canadian striker jumped on a wayward pass and converted what proved to be the final piece of Juventus’ 3-0 win over Sassuolo at the Mapei Stadium. It was Juventus’ first win over Sassuolo on their home field since 2022, putting to bed at least some of the boogeyman-like feeling that comes with heading to this part of Emilia-Romagna. But after a dominant yet completely frustrating 1-1 draw with Lecce on Saturday, Juventus responded with a strong showing against a Sassuolo side that has already taken points off clubs like AC Milan and Bologna so far this season. ............

 

With Roma and Como winning prior to Juventus taking the field on Tuesday night, it was crucial for the Bianconeri to keep things where they were entering the final game of the andata. That’s exactly what happened, and because of it Juve will now have nearly a week off to rest up and face Cremonese with full knowledge that they are in fourth place (albeit on goal differential) entering the second half of the season.

 

That’s a better kind of situation in which Luciano Spalletti arrived around 2 1/2 months ago. It’s far from where a lot of us probably still want them to be, but Juventus are showing signs of turning things around slowly but surely — even if it comes with a result like we saw just three days ago.

 

But when it comes to what Juventus did Tuesday night, it was a lot of the same kind of statistical domination that we saw against Lecce. Juventus barely allowed Sassuolo to have much of anything going forward. The Juventus defense limited Sassuolo to just three shots in each half, with most of those not being on frame until the final minutes of the game when things were pretty much sealed. ............

 

Same goes for the fact that somebody like David, who was one of the biggest goats and rip to shreds in the Italian media following the draw with Lecce, rebounded in about as strong of a way as he possibly could have. It was arguably one of his all-around best games, if not the best since coming to Juventus. He needed it. He needed it badly considering what this season has been like for him and the kind of game he just had. The whole squad needed it, too, because they know how important David could be for this team going forward if he plays like that.

 

They celebrated with him like they are very well aware of that fact.

 

Even Spalletti got in on the celebrations after David’s goal made it 3-0. Is that a sign that things are good? I would like to believe so — especially when you consider just how things were feeling surrounding David just a few days ago. ............

 

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

• Three points and a clean sheet. Those are always words I can support around here.
• A Juventus team that has struggled to consistently score goals all season just handed Sassuolo their worst loss of the season. ............
• Seeing this team celebrate around Jonathan David in the way that they did was refreshing.
• I mean, when is the last time you’ve seen somebody like Spalletti sprint down the sideline all the way to the corner flag just to celebrate a goal with his players? It’s probably been a good amount of time.
• You know David needed that kind of game in the worst possible way.
• It wasn’t just the goal and the assist to Miretti, either. David was doing a little bit of everything to help Juventus put Sassuolo on the back foot. The man’s defensive contributions were pretty impressive, too. This was the kind of game in which we envisioned from David when he first arrived. Hopefully this ends up being a potential sign of things to come rather than a one-off performance when he returns to his struggles next time out.
• Six different Juventus players, including David, had two tackles against Sassuolo.
• Who led Juventus in tackles? Oh just the guy who has played every minute of every game this season, Pierre Kalulu. That guy just continues to be steady as they come. ............
• Miretti had a good game. Seeing him take to this advanced role under Spalletti has been a positive development knowing just how much Juve need somebody other than Yildiz to be threat in the final third.
• Who led Juventus in key passes? Jonathan David.
• Just how many key passes did David finish with? That would be six. SIX KEY PASSES! ............
• Personally, I would like Juventus to win more games by a 3-0 scoreline. That sure would do a lot more for my overall stress level when it comes to this team.
• Good win. Let’s just leave it at that. Personally, that’s a good development after we saw this team do what it did over the weekend against a team hovering around the relegation zone.

Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/35279/sassuolo-juventus-2026-serie-a-matchday-19-final-score-result-initial-reaction-random-observations

[Socrates 9563]

“Perfect” Giancarlo Marocchi reacts to Juventus win against Sassuolo

 

 

Juventus beat Sassuolo 3-0 last night to return to winning ways following their draw against Lecce in the first match of 2026. In recent weeks, Juve have shown clear improvement, which made the failure to secure victory against Lecce a surprise to many observers. This fixture, therefore, represented an important opportunity to correct that setback and quickly regain momentum.

 

The men in black and white are fully aware of the importance of maintaining consistent results, particularly when facing opponents outside the league’s traditional elite. ............

 

From the opening minutes, Juventus approached the match with authority and intensity. Their structure without the ball and fluid movement in attack prevented Sassuolo from settling into its usual rhythm. By closing down passing lanes and pressing high, Juve ensured that Sassuolo were unable to create meaningful chances, while also allowing their own attacking players to operate with confidence. ............

 

The performance drew praise from former player Giancarlo Marocchi, who assessed the display. He said, “Juventus better? Yes, because Sassuolo can lose, but they can’t let themselves be dominated like that, because usually they’re all compact at the back and try to do something up front. Instead, Juventus were perfect in the first half, even in terms of pace. In the second half, despite playing a bit slower, they always controlled the game. It’s starting to be a long run, because even in the draw against Lecce, they should have won because of created chances. Before that, they beat Bologna and Roma.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/perfect-giancarlo-marocchi-reacts-to-juventus-win-against-sassuolo/

[Socrates 9563]

Le Pagelle: Sassuolo vs. Juventus

 

 

A lot can change in three days.

 

Take Jonathan David, for example. Pilloried after his ugly penalty miss over the weekend as Juventus spurned chance after chance and dropped points to a Lecce side they had thoroughly outplayed, on Tuesday he showed everyone his strength of character by stepping up and playing his best game in a Juventus shirt. His excellent showing, capped off by an assist and a goal within two minutes of each other in the second half, ensured that Juventus’ Tuesday trip to Sassuolo didn’t result in the same slip-up as it did against the Salentini. ............

 

MICHELE DI GREGORIO - 6. ............

PIERRE KALULU - 7. Continued to play excellent football, pushing forward to create overloads on his side and providing some quality service. He had a key pass and was responsible for the own goal that opened the scoring early. Also led or co-led the team in all major defensive stats (three tackles, two interceptions, two clearances).

 

 

BREMER - 6.5. Completely smothered Andrea Pinamonti and was a big part of Juve’s efforts to seal Sassuolo in their own half.

TEUN KOOPMEINERS - 6. ............

WESTON McKENNIE - 6.5. ............

MANUEL LOCATELLI - 6.5. Led the team with 126 touches and completed 92.9 percent of his passes, mostly to keep the ball moving on the attack and feed guys like David, who did the final distribution further up the field.

KHÉPHREN THURAM - 6.5. ............

ANDREA CAMBIASO - 6. ............

FABIO MIRETTI - 7. Finished really well on the goal, and had a pair of tackles up front as well as Juve pressed and forced Sassuolo into mistakes. Did well to move into the space vacated when David dropped deep.

KENAN YILDIZ - 6.5. Hit the target with five shots out of six, and made Arijanet Muric work hard on a few of them. Had to cede the creative responsibilities a bit because he was constantly double-teamed when the ball came to him.

JONATHAN DAVID - 7.5. Made six key passes, often dropping deeper to feed Yildiz or Miretti, and pressed incredibly well. His work rate was tremendous, constantly forcing mistakes like the one by Jay Idzes that gifted him his goal. A couple of those key passes were neat, no-look flicks without needing any other touches. Could this be a turning point for him? Obviously the answer will come in his next matches, but to have the mental fortitude to come up with this performance after the fusillade of criticism he endured over the weekend is a great sign.

SUBS

LOÏS OPENDA - 5. ............

JOÃO MÁRIO - 6. ............

JUAN CABAL - NR. ............

VASILIJE ADZIC - NR. ............

EDON ZHEGROVA - NR. ............

MANAGER ANALYSIS

Injuries forced Luciano Spalletti back into a 3-4-2-1 after a successful (in terms of the flow of the game, if not the result) test of a 4-2-3-1 against Lecce. What didn’t change was the team’s attitude, which is a testament to how Spalletti has this team working mentally. A result like Saturday’s could’ve seen Juventus come in with a serious lack of energy, especially at the Mapei Stadium, a bogey ground where they hadn’t won since 2022. But after a brief moment at the beginning of the game, they looked like the same guys who blitzed Lecce for 90 minutes.

 

Just like the weekend, Juve are playing quicker passes and look far more willing to make a riskier pass into a dangerous area as opposed to simply moving the ball around laterally. Spalletti has improved this team’s mindset and tactical setup in a relatively short amount of time, and as we head into the ritorna the team looks better positioned to battle near the top of the table than they did when Spalletti took over.

LOOKING AHEAD

Juve head back home to kick off the ritorna with a Monday home game against Cremonese, who they beat 2-1 in November. Then They take a trip to Cagliari before Champions League play resumes with a critical home match against Benfica.

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Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/previews-reviews/35303/le-pagelle-juventus-sassuolo-player-ratings-manager-analysis-2026-serie-a-matchday-19-final-score-result-vs-sassuolo

[Socrates 9563]

Allegri insists that Juventus can still win the Scudetto

 

 

Max Allegri has refused to rule Juventus out of the Scudetto race this season, insisting the Bianconeri still have what it takes to compete now that Luciano Spalletti is in charge. Juventus appointed Spalletti after dismissing Igor Tudor, and the change has brought renewed stability and confidence to the squad.

 

Despite some inconsistent results, Juventus remain close to the top of the league standings. Their stated objective may currently be a top-four finish, but there is a growing belief that the quality within the squad is sufficient to achieve far more. ............

 

Spalletti’s arrival has clearly had a positive impact on performances, with the team looking more assured and balanced in recent matches. Juventus have shown improved organisation and belief, which has kept them within touching distance of the leading sides. This has fuelled optimism that they could still mount a serious title push if results continue to improve. ............

 

Allegri, who is now working hard to win the title for AC Milan and prove Juventus wrong for sacking him, also stressed the importance of realism. He said, “It’s a question of numbers: Scudetto odds between 86 and 88. Juve can get 50 points because they’re a strong team, Spalletti’s arrival has improved their performances. Then we have to focus on ourselves. Yesterday’s results confirm that breaking into the top four will be difficult. Yesterday’s results show that it’s complicated: we have to keep our feet on the ground, be very balanced, and approach matches with great seriousness, like the last two. Then the games start 0-0, it’s not like we have any advantage because we’re Milan.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/allegri-insists-that-juventus-can-still-win-the-scudetto/

[Socrates 9563]

Fulvio Collovati says Juventus showed they are developing into a Spalletti team

 

 

Luciano Spalletti has been Juventus’ manager for just over two months, yet he already has the team playing clearly in line with his ideas. Before he arrived in Turin, two managers struggled to restore consistency quickly, and many felt that meaningful change would inevitably require time and patience. ............

 

Juventus is now focused on ensuring that the squad remains physically and mentally sharp to sustain their recent performances until the end of the season. The players appear more confident in possession and more assured in their roles, which has translated into improved control during matches.

 

That progress was evident in their recent game against Sassuolo. Juventus dominated proceedings, managed the tempo effectively, and demonstrated that they are capable of beating any opponent when they impose their game plan. The men in black and white secured an impressive victory, reinforcing belief in the direction the team is heading. ............

 

Former defender Fulvio Collovati was particularly encouraged by what he saw in that performance. He offered a detailed assessment of how Juventus are evolving under Spalletti. He said, “What we saw against Sassuolo, even if we had already glimpsed something of it in the first half against Lecce, is the most Spalletti-esque Juve we could see, a Juve that plays vertically, keeps possession, plays vertically, has a very clear identity, a Juve that has personality, even with players who are perhaps less credible, but have a lot of personality, and above all they play build-up play and play in depth, because they create a lot, because it’s true that they scored three goals, but they also had three or four other chances.”

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/fulvio-collovati-says-juventus-showed-they-are-developing-into-a-spalletti-team/

[Socrates 9563]

Spalletti explains decision to start David against Sassuolo after penalty miss

 

 

Jonathan David missed a penalty against Lecce in a match that ended in a 1 1 draw, and that miss ultimately proved costly for Juventus. The striker has not enjoyed the smoothest start to life in Turin, and supporters were clearly frustrated that he failed to convert a spot kick that was entrusted to him by his teammates.

 

Given the number of players in the squad capable of taking penalties, David’s miss attracted criticism. ............

 

Despite the disappointment against Lecce, Luciano Spalletti made the decision to start David again in the next match. The call was seen as a gamble, but one rooted in trust rather than form alone. Spalletti believed the striker would respond positively to the setback rather than shrink from responsibility.

 

That faith was rewarded emphatically. David delivered an excellent performance against Sassuolo, scoring a goal and providing an assist to play a decisive role in the victory. His contribution earned him the Man of the Match award and marked one of his most complete displays since joining the club. ............

 

After the match, Spalletti was asked why he chose to start David again so soon after the missed penalty. The Juventus manager explained his thinking. He said, “It was easy. He’s a good, kind, gentle guy, but then when all this stuff hits you, you react a little, so I was playing on what his reaction would be.”

 

Spalletti’s comments underline a belief in character as much as ability. David now appears to be finding form at an important stage of the season, and his response to adversity may prove crucial to his long-term success at the club. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/spalletti-explains-decision-to-start-david-against-sassuolo-after-penalty-miss/

[Socrates 9563]

Massimo Orlando says it wouldn’t be a surprise if Juventus finished second or third

 

 

Juventus began the season in encouraging fashion before a downturn in results led to increasing pressure, ultimately costing Igor Tudor his position. Even during their stronger early performances, there was limited belief that the club would finish the campaign as champions of Italy. Expectations remained measured, with many observers unconvinced that consistency could be sustained across the season. ............

 

When Luciano Spalletti was appointed as manager, the objective set for him was clear: qualification for the Champions League by the end of the season.

 

Juventus were confident that a top-four place was achievable, and this target was reportedly the benchmark for Spalletti to earn a new contract. With a new manager in charge, there was an acceptance that the team would require time to stabilise and rebuild confidence. However, over the past few weeks, Juventus have delivered a run of performances that suggest a rapid transformation.

 

The team has displayed renewed authority and structure, prompting growing discussion about their potential to challenge for the title. ............

 

Former player Massimo Orlando has indicated that such an outcome would not surprise him. He said, “I’ve been saying be careful with Juve since Spalletti arrived. Before, there was no identity and confusion; he did a great job, otherwise you wouldn’t go to Sassuolo and win with that kind of authority. It seems to me that Juve are doing more than well. Of course, there will be cup competitions that will bring challenges, but Juve didn’t start out to win the league. If I saw them finish second or third, I wouldn’t be surprised.” ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/massimo-orlando-says-it-wouldnt-be-a-surprise-if-juventus-finished-second-or-third/

[Socrates 9563]

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

 

 

Still on the fringe of Serie A’s title fight, Juventus will kick off the second half of their league campaign when they host Cremonese on Monday.

 

Juve swept aside Sassuolo last time out, continuing their mid-season revival, while mid-table Cremo let two points slip through their grasp.

 

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Match preview

After missing out on a fifth straight win by drawing 1-1 with lowly Lecce, it took just three days for Juventus to get straight back on track.

 

The Bianconeri faced a tricky trip to Reggio Emilia in Serie A’s midweek round, but they went ahead within 16 minutes and were never really troubled by Sassuolo.

 

A cathartic strike from Jonathan David - who finally ended his top-flight goal drought - capped off an impressive 3-0 success, as the Canadian striker made some amends for a woeful penalty miss against Lecce.

 

Veteran coach Luciano Spalletti - whose initial contract expires at the end of this season - has led Juve’s recent revival, overseeing eight wins from their last 10 games across all competitions.

 

While Spalletti has openly spoken of challenging for the Scudetto, his main aim is to secure a top-four finish in May, with several clubs still chasing Champions League places.

 

As Juventus are currently unbeaten in 13 Serie A home matches and have a flawless record against Cremonese in Turin, they will expect to pick up more precious points on Monday. ............

 

Juventus Serie A form:

L W W W D W

Juventus form (all competitions):

W W W W D W

 

Cremonese Serie A form:

W L D L L D

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Team News

Doubt remains over Francisco Conceicao’s availability, after Juve’s Portuguese winger was ruled out of action on Tuesday, while Dusan Vlahovic, Daniele Rugani and Federico Gatti are still on the treatment table.

 

Elsewhere, Spalletti has alternated between using Teun Koopmeiners as an auxiliary defender and in a more familiar midfield role; Lloyd Kelly would come into the Bianconeri’s back three if Koopmeiners is moved forward.

 

Meanwhile, David aims to score in back-to-back club appearances for the first time since March with Lille, while Lois Openda is expected to start on the bench. ............

 

Juventus possible starting lineup:

Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Koopmeiners; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Miretti, Yildiz; David

 

Cremonese possible starting lineup:

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

 

We say: Juventus 2-0 Cremonese

While Cremonese have tailed off after making a bright start to their comeback campaign, Juventus are one of Italy's form sides.

 

Since Spalletti's arrival, the Turin giants have found some rhythm, so they should extend their long winning run at home to Cremonese. 

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Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/preview/juventus-vs-cremonese-prediction-team-news-lineups_589597.html

Modificato 2 ore fa da Socrates