Juventus improved by transfers, but three big unknowns remain, including Spalletti
Juventus has strengthened its squad, but the season's success hinges on whether Luciano Spalletti can rediscover his best form.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 it / Author: Roberto Gearfil Lombardi
The transfer window for Juventus was defined by several turning points. Despite failing to qualify for the Champions League, the club confirmed Luciano Spalletti, who signed a renewal until 2028 back in April. This path was later endorsed by the new leadership, including Giovanni Carnevali.
Missing out on the Champions League limited the club's ability to pursue elite targets like Alisson, Bernardo Silva, or Lewandowski. A notable decision was the refusal to meet Dusan Vlahovic's contractual demands, suggesting a potential rift between the board and the manager, who reportedly wanted to keep the Serbian striker.
The saga surrounding Randal Kolo Muani was finally resolved, while the goalkeeping department saw the arrival of Vicario and Grabara after failed attempts elsewhere. Up front, the club invested in new prospects such as Ekhator, Alajbegovic, and Woltemade.
Much of the outcome of Juventus' season will depend heavily on Spalletti's work. He must shake off the lingering after-effects of the failure with Italy and rediscover his best instincts, as he did with title-winning Napoli. Luciano Spalletti
The biggest doubts persist in the centre of the attack, where neither Kolo Muani nor Woltemade fits the classic target-man profile Spalletti prefers. Furthermore, the midfield lacks a top-tier playmaker, making the return of Douglas Luiz a gamble, while the arrival of Sarr acts as a stop-gap after missing out on Kessié.