Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has underlined the critical importance of his players’ mentality as they prepare for their opening Europa League fixture of the 2026-27 season against NEC Nijmegen on Thursday night.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Spalletti warned that an “uncomfortable” evening could await his side if they are not fully prepared for the challenge. His comments come after Juventus suffered a 3-2 defeat to Sassuolo in Serie A over the weekend, a result that has seemingly prompted a focus on the team’s psychological readiness.
Focus on Mentality After Serie A Setback
The loss against Sassuolo has put the spotlight on Juventus’ form heading into their European campaign. Spalletti’s emphasis on mentality suggests a desire to see a strong reaction from his squad. The Europa League represents a fresh start in a new competition, and the manager appears keen to ensure his players approach it with the correct mindset.
This match marks Juventus’ first outing in the Europa League this season, adding an extra layer of significance to their performance. A positive start in Europe could help to rebuild confidence following their domestic league disappointment.
Threat from NEC Nijmegen
Despite Juventus being considered favourites, Spalletti also acknowledged the potential threat posed by their Dutch opponents. He specifically highlighted the presence of “strong players like Dusan Tadic” within the NEC Nijmegen squad, indicating that Juventus must not underestimate their adversaries.
The manager’s cautious tone suggests he expects a challenging encounter and is keen to ensure his team avoids any complacency. The focus remains on Juventus’ internal readiness and their ability to perform at a high level, regardless of the opposition.