New Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti addressed the media as the Bianconeri prepare to face Sporting in the Champions League’s fourth matchday. The new boss previewed the fixture and just what his stint in Turin might be like.
“Tomorrow will be very difficult because Sporting know how to play football,” the 66-year-old began. “Since Borges has been there, they’ve shown they know how to play; even if they’re difficult to codify on the pitch.”
Adjusting the conversation to Serie A aspirations, Spalletti was asked about key men Kenan Yildiz and Dusan Vlahovic. Speaking about the Turkish dynamo’s involvement at the club, he said, “I asked Yildiz where he feels most comfortable, and he told me he likes playing that centre-left position a bit: he’s good as a second striker, on the wing.
“If I think of the great players I’ve coached, he has something of Kvara and also of Di Natale, another with extraordinary talent. Kenan is someone who fills everyone’s Instagram with great plays.”
While Yildiz can be a creative force to be reckoned with, Spalletti also mentioned the man responsible for finishing the chances off. So far, it seems the conversations have been positive. “I spoke to Dusan, and he’d be delighted to stay here; he’s not bothered by his contract and is only focused on playing.”
Just as his talks with individuals have proved fruitful, it looks like the new manager is making an impact to the wider group.
“I said we have to fight for the Scudetto, which is different from winning it. As long as the math doesn’t prohibit us from doing so, we have to aim for anything, even in the Champions League.
“The victory in Cremona is entirely down to the players; I didn’t have any input. I like the way the lads look when I speak; there’s desire and willingness: they’re a good group, both footballingly and personally. New rules? Just common sense; Juventus has always had them.”
