Juventus are preparing for their Serie A clash against Sassuolo on Sunday, facing a significant challenge following the news that key midfielder Manuel Locatelli will be sidelined for an extended period. Manager Luciano Spalletti confirmed Locatelli underwent surgery for a torn meniscus and is expected to be out for four to six months.
The lengthy absence of the influential midfielder adds to Juventus’s growing injury list, which also includes Kenan Yildiz, Khephren Thuram, Jeremie Boga, Jeff Ekhator and Juan Cabal. However, Spalletti has called on his squad to adopt a resilient mindset, warning against an ‘alibi mentality’ ahead of the Mapei Stadium encounter.
Injury Woes and Squad Depth
Locatelli’s surgery is a major blow for the Bianconeri, who recently saw their perfect start to the season halted by a 1-1 draw with Milan. Beyond Locatelli, Weston McKennie is confirmed to miss the Sassuolo match, while Andrea Cambiaso will undergo a fitness test on Sunday morning to determine his availability.
Despite the setbacks, Spalletti expressed confidence in his squad’s depth. ‘If I lose a starter, I gain another protagonist,’ he stated, emphasising the readiness of other players to step up. He highlighted the availability of Pape Matar Sarr, who recently completed his transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, and Nick Woltemade, who made his debut after a deadline day move from Newcastle United and is being evaluated for a starting role.
The manager also praised Randal Kolo Muani for joining the camp early, demonstrating commitment to his teammates.
Tactical Adaptability and Midfield Options
Locatelli’s absence creates a void in central midfield, but Spalletti insisted that the team’s tactical approach would remain flexible. ‘The initial formation is not static, the players need to move around and adapt,’ he explained, adding that the squad allows for any tactical system.
Spalletti also provided updates on other midfield options. Teun Koopmeiners, who remained at Juventus despite transfer speculation, is reportedly ‘more relaxed’ and will be given a role where he feels more at ease, possibly between central midfield and a mezz’ala position. Douglas Luiz, who has become a regular in the starting XI, was described as a ‘certainty’ by the coach, having improved his ball distribution and movement.
Looking Ahead to Sassuolo
Juventus will face a Sassuolo side coached by former midfielder Alberto Aquilani, a team known for its quality football and solid identity. Spalletti acknowledged Sassuolo’s strengths, praising their consistent approach over the years.
While the Champions League commenced this week, Juventus will compete in the Europa League this season. Spalletti views this as ‘further motivation,’ stating that the ‘pain gives you responsibility and more desire to get back in there.’ The team will be looking to bounce back from their recent draw and maintain their strong start to the Serie A campaign despite the challenges.