Stephan Lichtsteiner has delivered a ringing endorsement of Luciano Spalletti, backing the Juventus coach to return the club to the Champions League next season. The former Bianconeri right-back, who now manages Swiss side Basel, issued his support following a pre-season friendly between the two clubs.
Speaking to reporters in the mixed zone after the match, which finished level, Lichtsteiner dismissed any doubts about Spalletti’s suitability for the demanding role in Turin. “From afar it’s very difficult to assess the situation or give advice, but Juventus have Luciano Spalletti, who is more than capable, an excellent coach, one of the best,” he said, via TuttoMercatoWeb. “I’m sure he’ll put everything right and bring Juventus back to the Champions League next year. I have a lot of confidence in him.”
Leadership legacy
Lichtsteiner, who spent seven successful years with Juventus, highlighted the scale of the rebuilding project facing Spalletti. He contrasted the current dressing room with the era dominated by club legends, noting the absence of commanding figures who previously set the standard.
“It’s difficult to make a comparison. Obviously with Pirlo, Buffon and Del Piero there were hugely important pillars, which perhaps you don’t see yet today,” Lichtsteiner explained. “Those players are no longer there, and in my view Juventus will have to rebuild that kind of leadership too.”
The Switzerland great stressed that regardless of personnel changes, the requirement for silverware remains non-negotiable. “When you wear this shirt you have to win. That’s the pressure at Juventus,” he stated.
Italy appointment
Beyond club matters, Lichtsteiner also addressed the vacancy with the Italian national team, throwing his weight behind a familiar face from his playing days. When questioned about Andrea Pirlo’s credentials for the Azzurri post, the Basel manager offered unqualified support.
“Would I see Andrea Pirlo as Italy coach? Yes, of course. I know Andrea and I think he has all the qualities,” Lichtsteiner responded. “I’m absolutely sure Italy will be great again.” Pirlo featured alongside Lichtsteiner during the defender’s tenure in Turin and is considered among the candidates for the position.
Emotional return
The fixture provided an emotional backdrop for Lichtsteiner’s return to familiar surroundings. The defender, who left Juventus seven years ago, admitted the warmth of the welcome from supporters moved him deeply.
“To come back after seven years and receive this affection, after all the successes we lived through together, makes me very happy,” he reflected.
Juventus will hope Lichtsteiner’s prediction regarding Spalletti proves accurate as they seek to re-establish themselves among Europe’s elite, while the Italian Football Federation continues its search for a new national team boss.