Juventus' Spalletti rebukes fans: Mazzola, respect is required

Juventus coach Spalletti condemned Juventus fans who, during the minute of silence dedicated to Sandro Mazzola, turned their backs and shouted chants for Scirea, Fortunato and Agnelli, immediately after the 2‑0 home victory over Atalanta.

Spalletti calls for respect

During the press conference, Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti said: “Respect and sportsmanship are required for the legends of our football such as Mazzola, Scirea and Baresi.” He added that these values are “people of dignity, human values, sporting, from whom we have all taken things.”

The Juve supporters' curve turned its back during the minute of silence for Mazzola, while chants for Scirea, Fortunato and Agnelli erupted from the rest of the stands. This gesture was reported by the Latest football news.

Spalletti recalled meeting Mazzola when he had just arrived at Inter, recounting that the legendary midfielder had embraced him and offered his availability. He said that meeting stayed “in his heart” and that Mazzola gave him “a great hand.”

The coach emphasized that one should not make choices that go against sportsmanship, adding “I’m sorry but I don’t even know the reasons well.” According to him, the sporting aspect must always be at the centre of attention.

“The Juve curve did not respect the minute of silence for Mazzola,” reads the released statement, “That is a discussion for which we must be careful. One must not make choices that can go against sportsmanship, I’m sorry but I don’t even know the reasons well. The sporting side must always be close to the heart.”

The contrast between the fans’ gesture and Spalletti’s words highlights the need for respectful behaviour even off the pitch. The coach reiterated that respect for the legends is essential to keep football’s dignity alive.