Spalletti saves Juventus with a 3‑5‑2, but Kolo and Woltemade fail
With the three points earned against Lecce, Juventus have reached Frosinone, showing that the team coached by Massimiliano Spalletti is finding a more pragmatic solution, despite recent difficulties and the need to answer criticism over the lack of results.
Spalletti and the new compactness
Spalletti has abandoned ambitions of elegant football to adopt a 3‑5‑2 with four central defenders, one of whom, Kalulu, deployed on the flank. The new setup has brought greater determination, compactness and well‑occupied spaces, also thanks to the direction of Douglas Luiz, often left far too alone by Lecce. The much‑awaited Kolo Muani and Woltemade have not convinced, they do not fit into the team, although the German has worked a lot for the club.
The milestone at Frosinone represents an important step in Juventus' push towards the top end of the table. With the three points from Lecce, the team is now only a few points away from the champion club.
Milan, Amorim and the penalty challenge
Milan, after the drubbing suffered in the Europa League, switched formation to a 4‑4‑1‑1 with Bartesaghi high on the outside wing. Amorim, despite concerns about the bench, has received full backing from Cardinale, who reiterated his absolute confidence in the Portuguese coach. Injuries and the post‑cup schedule have made the Udine match delicate, but the players' gritty attitude has provided a positive signal.
The matches against Rennes on Thursday and yesterday in Salento were considered decisive to assess Spalletti's stay after the home defeat to Lazio. Thursday's draw and yesterday's win showed some compactness, but they did not resolve all doubts about the team's building.
Milan arrives at Udinese with injury list that limits Amorim
In the clash with Rennes, Juventus displayed a more solid defence, limiting the opponent's chances. The result helped to consolidate confidence in Spalletti's new lineup.
Inter and Lazio won their respective matches, but both suffered the denial of clear penalties to Frattesi and Thuram. Referee Orsato was questioned about why the VAR was switched off, raising questions about the correct application of the international protocol.
Allegri may have been referred, but he was slow to introduce the necessary changes during recent games. Sarri, on the other hand, faces no immediate risk, according to the latest assessments.
Juventus end slump as McKennie and Douglas Luiz fire early
The real test will come next Sunday against Napoli, another disappointed side but still fighting for the table. A positive performance could cement Juventus' position in the top end of the standings.