Football Season Guide

Once the Allegri era came to an end of in 2023/2024, a revolution was expected at Juventus last season. The arrival of coach Thiago Motta, following a triumphal campaign at the helm of Bologna, seemed to represent a breath of fresh air for the Zebras after some dull years. Unfortunately for them, though, the excitement did not last long. Juventus just drew too many games, 16, and they only rarely offered that spectacular football promised in the summer. After the elimination from the Champions League at the hands of PSV in mid-February, both players and supporters had enough of the Brazilian manager, who adopted bizarre line-up choices. When Juventus fell off the top 4 and their Champions League spot seemed at risk, Motta was sacked and a much less exotic Ivan Tudor took over. The Croatian led them to a top 4 finish and was waved goodbye. He eventually led them to a decent Club World Cup and was eventually confirmed for the new season, for want of alternatives. Under Motta, Juventus initiated a process of squad rejuvenation which is still ongoing, while they are also reducing the wage expenses. With this in mind, their transfer campaign started with the permanent acquisition of a few players arrived on loan the previous season. Starting goalie Di Gregorio will thus still be their n.1. At the back, centre-back Kalulu will still be a protagonist together with Gatti and Bremer, returning after a longterm injury. And back-up Kelly was also confirmed while Veiga returned to his parent club. Back-up right-back Alberto Costa and right winger/striker Weah were both let go while Joao Mario, arriving from Porto, is set to become a starter on the right flank. The midfield remained untouched so far, with Douglas Luiz still at the club despite a disastrous last season, but they are still feeling short in that department. In the attack, Kolo Muani returned to Paris, but they would like to re-sign him, while no buyers were found for Vlahovic. David, coming from Lille, will be the new striker, though.