Early Season Showdown Looms
Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has provided an update on his squad ahead of their highly anticipated Serie A clash against fellow perfect-start side Milan this weekend. Both Juventus and Milan enter the fixture having won their opening two Serie A games, setting the stage for an early top-of-the-table encounter.
Juventus Grapple with Injuries
Spalletti confirmed that Juventus will be without a significant number of players due to injury. Kenan Yildiz, Khephren Thuram, and Juan Cabal are sidelined, alongside Andrea Cambiaso, Weston McKennie, Jeff Ekhator, and new arrival Pape Matar Sarr. The extensive list presents a challenge for the Bianconeri.
“There are difficulties, we have seven players out injured and all their problems are different,” Spalletti acknowledged during his press conference, highlighting the depth of the current injury crisis. Despite this, he expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform, stating, “Nonetheless, we feel that we are in a position to play like Juventus.”
Tactical Battle Ahead
The Juventus boss offered insights into their opponents, describing Milan as a team with “clear ideas” and a “strong squad” built by a coach with “very recognisable set of tactical principles.” He noted Milan’s “immediate” style, favouring “vertical passes and quick transitions,” and their “very aggressive in the press.”
Regarding his own side, Spalletti stated that Juventus “started on the right foot this season,” having secured 1-0 and 2-0 victories against Frosinone and Parma respectively. However, he emphasised the need to “do better at shaking off their marking” against Milan’s aggressive approach. “Every metre we earn going forward is worth more than any possession statistic,” he added, underscoring the importance of direct play.
Transfer Window Reflections
Reflecting on the recently closed transfer window, Juventus secured Nick Woltemade on loan from Newcastle United. Spalletti praised the new forward, noting he “gives us further options” and has characteristics that “can be of great use to us.”
Despite the new acquisition, Spalletti admitted the club “didn’t do everything we wanted” in the market, though he believes they “improved our squad.” He also touched upon the challenging decision to exclude some players from the Europa League list, stating, “Leaving out a player is the worst of situations.”
This weekend’s encounter at the Allianz Juventus Stadium promises to be a “fascinating game,” as described by Spalletti, with both teams vying to maintain their perfect start to the Serie A campaign. The match is scheduled for Sunday at 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST).