Juventus are facing a significant injury crisis ahead of their Serie A fixture against Parma, with manager Luciano Spalletti confirming that Kenan Yildiz will require foot surgery that will keep him out of action for two to three months. The setback compounds selection headaches for the Bianconeri, as United States international Weston McKennie has also been ruled out with a muscular issue sustained following their opening-day victory away to Frosinone.
Spalletti has moved to reassure supporters that the squad possesses sufficient cover for Yildiz’s extended absence. The coach highlighted 19-year-old Kerim Alajbegovic as a direct replacement, noting the youngster is accustomed to operating in that position. Juventus have also completed the signing of Jeff Ekhator, another prospect who Spalletti believes has significant potential. The manager praised the club’s forward planning in recruiting Alajbegovic, stating the teenager “has quality and is eager to show all his capabilities.”
The absence of Yildiz places additional focus on Randal Kolo Muani, who endured a difficult debut in the 1-0 win at Frosinone. Spalletti sought to clarify his assessment of the former Paris Saint-Germain striker, insisting he has also praised the Frenchman’s abilities. “I said so many good things about Kolo Muani,” Spalletti remarked, adding that the forward “is difficult to keep up with when he sets off in a gallop.” The coach emphasised that the player merely needs to regain match sharpness after a period without regular football.
Defensive Reinforcements and Transfer Talk
In better news for the backline, Federico Gatti has returned to the squad following recovery from an ankle injury. However, new defensive recruit Jhon Lucumi, signed from Bologna, is challenging for an immediate starting berth. Spalletti indicated a selection dilemma between the Colombian and Lloyd Kelly, who impressed against Frosinone. The manager noted that Lucumi “is settling in well and has all the qualities we spotted,” though he stressed he would evaluate the situation carefully before Saturday’s kick-off.
Off the pitch, Juventus are exploring the possibility of adding former Milan and Atalanta midfielder Franck Kessie as a free agent. Spalletti confirmed discussions are ongoing, though any deal remains contingent upon satisfying Financial Fair Play regulations. “They are talking to Kessie,” Spalletti said, warning that “if we don’t sell, it becomes impossible to bring anyone new in” due to stringent FFP constraints.
The injury updates come as Juventus learned their Europa League group stage opponents, having been drawn alongside Real Sociedad, AZ Alkmaar, Rennes, Ferencvaros, Omonia, Celta Vigo and Hapoel Beer Sheva. Spalletti acknowledged the club carries “a responsibility for Italian football” in the competition.
Juventus host Parma at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday evening, with kick-off scheduled for 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST). The Bianconeri will be seeking to build upon their winning start to the campaign despite the mounting absentees.