JUVENTUS SEASON 2024-2025

[Socrates 8475]

Juventus vs Empoli: Preview and Prediction

 

 

Juventus will look to bounce back from a rough patch of form that includes back-to-back defeats when they welcome Empoli this weekend. A disappointing 2-0 loss to SL Benfica in the UEFA Champions League saw Juve slide to 20th in the standings, forcing them into a challenging route in the knockout rounds.

 

On the domestic front, their 2-1 defeat to Napoli last weekend further highlighted their struggles, leaving them winless in three matches. Despite their recent issues, Juventus remain unbeaten at home in Serie A this season, which serves as a significant morale booster.

 

The Bianconeri have historically dominated Empoli in Turin, winning 80% of their encounters. Manager Thiago Motta, however, is under growing pressure to improve results, as Juventus’ current tally of just eight wins from 22 league games is their worst at this stage of a season since 1988. ............

Team News & Tactics

Juventus

Thiago Motta faces some defensive adjustments this weekend as first-choice centre-back Pierre Kalulu is sidelined with a muscular injury. To fill the gap, either new signing Renato Veiga or midfielder Manuel Locatelli may slot into the backline. Meanwhile, Andrea Cambiaso, who has been the subject of Premier League transfer rumours, is expected to return to the squad after missing the midweek defeat against Benfica due to an ankle issue.

 

Randal Kolo Muani, who scored on his league debut against Napoli, will look to make history by becoming the first Juventus player since Carlos Tevez in 2013 to find the net in his first two Serie A games. The French forward is likely to lead the line, with Dusan Vlahovic potentially dropping to the bench. The attacking midfield trio of Kenan Yildiz, Teun Koopmeiners, and Facundo Gonzalez could provide support from behind.

 

Juventus are likely to set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Mattia Perin will guard the goal, with a back four comprising Nicolo Savona at right-back, Federico Gatti and Renato Veiga as the central defenders, and Andrea Cambiaso slotting in at left-back.

 

The midfield pivot is expected to feature Manuel Locatelli and Marcus Thuram, providing a balance of defensive solidity and forward thrust. In the attacking third, Kenan Yildiz will operate on the right wing, Nico Gonzalez on the left, and Teun Koopmeiners in the central playmaker role. Randal Kolo Muani is set to lead the attack as the lone striker.

 

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Perin; Savona, Gatti, Veiga, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Thuram; Yildiz, Koopmeiners, Gonzalez; Kolo Muani

Empoli

 ............

Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, De Sciglio; Gyasi, Henderson, Anjorin, Cacace; Fazzini, Esposito; Colombo

Key Stats

• Juventus have won just one of their last four Serie A games against Empoli (D2, L1), despite having won 10 of their previous 11 meetings (L1). Interestingly, the last two matches between the sides ended in draws.
• Empoli have only avoided defeat in seven of their last 24 Serie A matches against Juventus (W3, D4). Notably, five of these positive results occurred in the second half of the season.
• Juventus have won 80% of their Serie A home matches against Empoli (W12 D2 L1). Among current Serie A opponents, only Hellas Verona (85%) have a worse record at Juventus in terms of the home win percentage. ............
• Juventus are the only unbeaten team at home in Serie A this season and have the most draws on home soil (7). Following their 2-0 victory against AC Milan, Juventus could secure back-to-back home wins in a single league season for the first time since January 2024, when they achieved three consecutive victories.

Player to Watch

Randal Kolo Muani

The French forward, who recently joined on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, made an immediate impact by scoring on his league debut against Napoli. This debut strike not only highlighted his ability to adapt quickly to new environments but also drew comparisons to Juventus icons such as Carlos Tevez, who similarly hit the ground running upon joining the Bianconeri.

 

Kolo Muani’s pace, physical presence, and intelligent movement make him a nightmare for defenders. Operating as the focal point of Juventus’s attack, his ability to hold up the ball and link play with supporting midfielders and wingers adds a new dimension to the team’s forward line.

 

Against Empoli, a team known for their defensive frailties, Kolo Muani’s sharpness in the final third and knack for exploiting space could prove decisive. In this match-up, he will be looking to become the first player since Tevez in 2013 to score in his first two league appearances for Juventus.

Prediction

Juventus 2-0 Empoli

Given Juventus’s unbeaten home record this season and Empoli’s struggles both at home and against higher-ranked opponents, the Bianconeri are clear favourites. While Empoli have shown occasional resilience on the road, Juve’s superior quality and home advantage should help them secure a much-needed win. The Hard Tackle predicts a 2-0 win for Thiago Motta and his charges.

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Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2025/02/01/juventus-vs-empoli-preview-and-prediction-2/

[Socrates 8475]

[Socrates 8475]

Juventus vs. Empoli match preview

 

The first month of 2025 was always going to be a crucial one for Juventus. You had big Serie A matchups basically every weekend. There were two of the final Champions League league phase matchups, and there was even the new-look Supercoppa thrown in there as well. ............

 

But it was also going to be an important month to see just where things stood for Thiago Motta’s squad as they tried to get things on track during a crucial stretch domestically and in Europe.

 

In their seven January fixtures, Juventus recorded just one win and had as many draws (3) as they had losses. They dropped points domestically, they dropped points in Europe and they made the long trip to Saudi Arabia only to have it be another instance of Juve taking the lead only to give it away against AC Milan. ............

 

 

Throw in a tired, tired squad thanks to so many injuries and the Juventus that will host Empoli in Sunday’s lunchtime kickoff has a very ominous feeling about it and very much a cloud hanging over its head.

 

This is a season and a team that is desperate need of something to go their way and get some sort of positive momentum injected into their veins like they’re getting treatment in the ER. Good thing that an Empoli side that is sitting in 15th entering the weekend and hasn’t won in nearly two months is the team Juve are lining up against. ............

 

So now with the unbeaten run to begin the Serie. A season officially a thing of the past and Juventus looking even worse against Benfica midweek in the Champions League, Motta’s task is easy on paper but very much not based on how everything is actually going. Getting Juventus back on track, based on the current state of the roster that is quite tired (if not exhausted) and very much shorthanded. ............

 

Now Motta and Juventus need to truly beat a team that they must beat — no questions asked. Whether they can actually do it is another matter entirely, and that pretty much says a lot about the way things are looking as we head into February after such a rough January.

 

TEAM NEWS

• Pierre Kalulu is the latest name to be added to the injury list after he damn near did the splits in Wednesday’s loss to Benfica. Kalulu is expected to be out at least a couple of weeks, with Juve saying Thursday they will re-evaluate him in 10 days.
• Andrea Cambiaso has not been called up and will miss his second straight game due to the ankle injury that he first picked up in December. ............
• Nicolo Savona, who has gone from playing a lot to play very little the last couple of weeks, is dealing with pubalgia (aka a sports hernia), with Juventus reportedly hoping to put off surgery until the summer. He has been called up to face Empoli. ............
• All three of Juventus’ January signings — Alberto Costa, Randal Kolo Muani and Renato Veiga — have been called up to face Empoli. Both Costa and Kolo Muani have been tipped to play from the start, according to predicted lineups in the Italian press.
• On the Veiga front, Motta praised the 21-year-old’s versatility at the back, but said he is first and foremost a central defender during his time at Juventus.
• Regarding the winter signings playing against Empoli, Motta said: “The new arrivals will give us a boost: let’s see if they will help the team from the start or as substitutes tomorrow.”

• JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH

At this time, I’m thinking Thiago Motta is much more willing to start a brand new player up front as compared to a recent arrival in defense. Because of that, my mind is telling me that the experiment alongside Federico Gatti will be more like what we saw midweek compared to a brand new face making his Juventus debut.

 

So, let’s get Loca, I guess. Loca in defense.

 

If Manuel Locatelli does in fact get a start alongside Gatti in the center of defense, we are very much looking at another game in which Juventus’ backline is a makeshift one. Considering the only other option in the center of defense is Veiga — who has only been with Juve for a little more than a week — thrusting him into the defense where chemistry and communication is so crucial might be a little too much. ............

 

We’ve Locatelli play as a center back a couple of times this season. Like, officially a center back, not the times in which he’s been a midfielder who has dropped quite deep. The first time was a pretty solid effort. The most recent, last week against Benfica, not so much — which isn’t totally a surprise knowing full well he’s not a center back and was suddenly thrust into a situation that was far from what it was like when his first appearance in defense took place. ............

 

Or maybe it just turns out to be Veiga partnering with Gatti for the first time since he arrived with Chelsea. At the very least Juve would have two natural center backs, right?

MATCH INFO

When: Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025.

Where: Allianz Stadium, Turin, Italy.

Official kickoff time: 12:30 p.m. in Italy and the Central European time zone, 11:30 a.m. in the United Kingdom, 6:30 a.m. Eastern time, 3:30 a.m. Pacific time.

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Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2025/2/2/24355058/juventus-empoli-2025-serie-a-matchday-23-preview-team-news-schedule-how-to-watch

[Socrates 8475]

[Socrates 8475]

[Socrates 8475]

Juventus turn jeers to cheers as they storm from behind to beat Empoli

 

At the Allianz Stadium in Turin, wounded Juventus hosted Empoli for Sunday’s early Serie A kickoff. The Bianconeri pulled off a remarkable second-half comeback to prevail by four goals to one. ............

 

The contest couldn’t have started any worse for the home side, as Mattia De Sciglio, out of all people, scored the opener after four minutes. The veteran was left unmarked on the corner kick, and his header went past the crowd to beat Michele Di Gregorio who allowed the ball to slip between his legs as he didn’t have a clear vision.

 

Empoli thought they had a chance to double their lead from the spot when Di Gregorio tripped Youssef Maleh inside the box, but VAR intervened to overturn the decision to a handball in the leadup. ............

 

Nevertheless, the Old Lady turned the game upside down 20 minutes into the second half thanks to Kolo Muani’s brace. The Frenchman beat Saba Goglichidze in the physical duel before finding the back of the net from an acute angle. A few minutes later, Weah’s long-range shot only needed a slight touch from Muani to wrongfoot Devis Vazquez. ............

 

Dusan Vlahovic was so eager to get on his scoresheet that he paid little heed to the three open teammates he had in support, instead going for a long-range attempt which somehow beat the shaky Vazquez.

 

In added time, another two substitutes combined to score the fourth for the Old Lady, as Khphren Thuram’s stunning long ball put Francisco Conceicao through on goal. Despite going full speed, the Portuguese still had the composure to produce a clinical finish. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-turn-jeers-to-cheers-as-they-stormed-from-behind-to-beat-empoli/

[Socrates 8475]

Player Ratings: Juventus 4-1 Empoli – Kolo Muani shakes the Bianconeri

 

 

Randal Kolo Muani paved the way for Juventus’ comeback against Empoli at the Allianz Stadium, helping the Old Lady to secure a 4-1 win and move into the top four.

 

Kolo Muani is Football Italia’s Man of the Match in Juventus’ 4-1 win over Empoli. The French striker now has three goals in his first two games with the Bianconeri. ............

 

Kenan Yildiz was among the best Juventus players and contributed to Kolo Mauni’s second goal with a stunning ruleta to dribble past two opponents in the build-up. ............

Juventus 4-1 Empoli – player ratings

Juventus: Di Gregorio 6; Savona 6, Gatti 6, Veiga 6.5, Weah 6.5; Locatelli 6, McKennie 6.5 (85′ Thuram 6.5); Yildiz 7 (65′ Vlahovic 7), Koopmeiners 6.5, Nico Gonzalez 6.5 (85′ Conceiçao 7); Kolo Muani 8. Coach: Thiago Motta 6.5

 

Best Juventus player: Kolo Muani 8 – Used all his physicality to score the equaliser. Lucky to deflect a Weah shot on target to give Juventus the lead a few minutes later. Besides the two goals, he always had a positive attitude, also when he was moved to the left-winger role following Vlahovic’s introduction.

 

Juventus coach: Motta 6.5 – The Juventus reaction was slow and almost inexistent in the first half, aside from a couple of chances. The improvement in the second half was evident and brought a deserved win, even if the Bianconeri were helped by Saba Goglichidze and Maleh’s red card.

 

Empoli: Vasquez 6.5; De Sciglio 7, Ismajli 7 (59′ Goglichidze 4.5), Marianucci 6.5 (90′ Tosto N/A); Gyasi 6, Henderson 6 (90′ Bacci N/A), Anjorin 6.5 (49′ Zurkowski 5.5), Cacace 5.5; Esposito 6 (90′ Konate N/A), Maleh 5; Colombo 6. Coach: D’Aversa 5.5

 

Best Empoli player: Ismajli 7 –  ............

 

Lowest Empoli rating: Goglichidze 4.5 –  ............

 

Empoli coach: D’Aversa: D’Aversa 5.5 –  ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/juventus-empoli-ratings-kolo-muani-shakes/

[Socrates 8475]

Thiago Motta: ‘Juventus players took responsibility’ in 4-1 victory

 

 

Thiago Motta insists Juventus got a ‘deserved’ 4-1 victory against Empoli, coming back from an early goal with players ‘taking responsibility’ like Dusan Vlahovic and Kenan Yildiz. ............

 

Randal Kolo Muani scored twice in three minutes to turn it around, with Dusan Vlahovic and Francisco Conceicao scoring off the bench in stoppages after Youssouf Maleh had left Empoli down to 10 men.

 

“We came here for the victory and I congratulate my players for their courage to get a deserved win” Thiago Motta said.

 

“I saw many players take responsibility on the field today and we took home what we deserved. The players earned this with their hard work from the first day of training and we want to continue like this.” ............

 

“We were on level terms and as soon as I called Dusan to the touchline, we scored again. I preferred to take Kenan off because he and Randal can both play down the left, so with another more central figure, we could move him into that position.

 

“Dusan also gave his contribution coming on, not just with the goal, but with his work for the team. I am sorry for those who were unable to participate in this victory, but we are a united group.”

 

Just before introducing him as a substitute, Thiago Motta was caught on camera telling Vlahovic he would certainly score.

 

“It’s because I can see it in his face,” revealed the coach. “I see his belief, his hunger and a little anger within him. Since the start of the season, he has played so much and there were times when he wasn’t 100 per cent fit, but had to play anyway.

 

“Today he did not start, but when he came on, he helped the team to win the game. I am happy for all the players, because this is a great win.” ............

 

There was a marvellous bit of Kenan Yildiz skill to turn between defenders and get away in the build-up to the second goal, which got the crowd on its feet.

 

“Wonderful, yes, but this is what I expect from him, I see it all the time in training. There are many other things I really like to see too and he knows it. I realise he didn’t deserve to go off at that moment, but I needed to make a choice for the good of the team,” added Thiago Motta. ............

 

“We know our priority is to pass our way out from the back when possible, as it keeps us compact and we can attack with strength. When there are opponents who press us almost man for man, like Empoli did today, it is important to use our strikers and their pace to cause them problems,” concluded Thiago Motta.

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/thiago-motta-juventus-players-responsibility/

[Socrates 8475]

Juventus player ratings vs Empoli: Kolo Muani announces his arrival at the Allianz

 

 

Juventus XI

Michele Di Gregorio – 5.5

The goalkeeper was beaten by Mattia De Sciglio’s tame header which went between his legs. In his defence, he didn’t have a clear vision.

Timothy Weah – 6.5

 ............

Federico Gatti – 7

 ............

Renato Veiga – 6

The new signing had a nervy start as one could expect on his club debut, but grew in confidence as the match progressed.

Nicolo Savona – 6.5

The youngster played in an unusual role on the left flank, but you could hardly tell. Offered Yildiz support in attack and looked solid at the back against Gyasi.

Manuel Locatelli – 6

 ............

Teun Koopmeiners – 5.5

Another underwhelming display from the Dutchman who played in a slightly deeper role than usual. Almost scored the equalizer but his close-range shot was blocked by McKennie.

Nicolas Gonzalez – 6

The Argentine went for the spectacular but his shot was too central. But an overall decent display on the right wing.

Weston McKennie – 5.5

 ............

Kenan Yildiz – 6.5

The Turkish teenager was one of the few bright spots for Juventus in the first half, causing havoc on the left flank. His brilliant turn sparked the second goal.

Randal Kolo Muani – 8

The Frenchman marked his first appearance at the Allianz Stadium with a brace that turned the result upside-down. Juve’s attack operates much more smoothly with him in the lineup.

Substitutes

Dusan Vlahovic – 7

A much-improved cameo from Serbian, even before scoring the goal. Had three teammates in support, but showcased his keen desire to reconcile with the net by selfishly taking the shot himself.

Khephren Thuram – 7

Picked up Conceicao’s run with an inch-perfect long ball for the fourth goal.

Francisco Conceicao – 7

Kept his composure to produce a clinical shot despite going full throttle.

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-player-ratings-vs-empoli-kolo-muani-announces-his-arrival-at-the-allianz/

[Socrates 8475]

Yildiz roulette impresses Kolo Muani: ‘I had in my head’

 

 

Kenan Yildiz admits he wanted to do Zizou Zidane-style roulette for the whole game as Randal Kolo Muani praises the Turkish talent: ‘It’s good to play with him.’

 

Kolo Muani and Yildiz left their mark in Juventus’ 4-1 win over Empoli on Sunday. The French striker scored twice in his first appearance at the Allianz Stadium.

 

The build-up to the second goal was inspired by Yildiz’s roulette, which allowed the Turkish talent to dribble past two opponents and set up Timothy Weah, whose shot was deflected by Kolo Muani to give Juventus the lead.

 

“It’s nice. I had in my head all game, so I wanted to do it,” Yildiz said.

 

“I was happy we scored after that. I always think about what I can do in the game to improve myself. I don’t tell myself to be the leader. I just want to help the team. Of course I always try to give my best. This is it.” ............

 

“We got three points today, so we are happy. It’s incredible. I am happy, and now we have got to celebrate this. Yildiz is a great player with great technique. He’s young, so it’s very good to play with him.” Kolo Muani said. ............

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/yildiz-roulette-impresses-kolo-muani-head/

[Socrates 8475]

Juventus 4 - Empoli 1: Delayed reaction and random observations

 

 

So much of the 2024-25 season has been about what Juventus has been unable to do when trying to hold onto a lead. Dropped points aplenty as a result of being unable to hold said lead, and it has resulted in so many draws and a place in the standings where you even add in half of those dropped points Juve are very much in a different state compared to their current one.

 

On Sunday, it was Juventus being the team that came back. The fashion in which they had to do so was far from perfect — if it ever is when you fall behind in the fourth minute — but flipping the script sure was a change for the better at least.

 

Thanks a pair of goals from January arrival Randal Kolo Muani within the span of three minutes, Juventus flipped what was a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 lead. And what has happened so many times when Juve took a lead deep into the second half didn’t repeat itself at the Allianz Stadium this time around, with a makeshift defense able to hold onto the lead and Dusan Vlahovic and Francisco Conceição each adding a goal in the closing minutes to wrap up a 4-1 victory over visiting Empoli. It was the start to February that was very much needed after a January in which Juventus won just one of their seven games in all competitions — yes, even if it was a lunchtime kickoff that started about as bad as you could have thought. ............

 

The biggest thing is that they had a response, with Kolo Muani — who became the first player since Carlos Tevez to score in back-to-back games after signing with Juventus — very much doing what he was brought in to do. They were very different kinds of goals — the first showing his ability to shed a defender and score from a tight angle and the second very much deflecting a long-range shot from Timothy Weah a couple of minutes later.

 

Yet even after Juve took the lead, the same old theme of “Can Juventus actually hold onto this advantage?” probably came to the fore for just about everybody watching.

 

It’s only natural to think that way after Juventus have done what they have with so many points thrown away this season after leading. But not on this day, not against this Empoli side that are just a point above the relegation zone. ............

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

• Kenan Yildiz with a head wrap against Benfica. Manuel Locatelli with a head wrap against Empoli. Who are we
• Of course Mattia De Sciglio were the first one to score on Sunday. The Ex Effect would have been working overtime if it ended up being De Sciglio’s goal that decided this one.
• Kolo Muani and Renato Veiga are now the two highest-rated players for Juventus season, according to WhoScored. Take that, haters! ............

• At least Kolo Muani scored a couple of goals because completing 53% of his passes against Empoli is not exactly something that we’d like to see become a regular thing.
• But those goals. Thank you for the goals, Randal.
• My two initial reactions after Vlahovic’s goal: He probably had no business taking that shot considering all of the other Juve players that were open at the top of the box (and calling for the ball!), and that celebration was a little muted considering all the chatter. Maybe the new, internal competition of Kolo Muani is something that is now going to push him. Or maybe it’s something else entirely as rumors about his future at Juve continue to fly. We’ll see. ............
• Hey, that was a pretty good game from Teun Koopmeiners. Been missing those where he fills up the stat sheet and comes to close to scoring a few nice goals. Get that left foot of his dialed in a little more and maybe we’ll finally see the real Koopmeiners. Maybe. ............
• All three of the subs Thiago Motta brought on had a goal contribution. That’s something that would be nice to see more of going forward. ............

Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2025/2/2/24357276/juventus-empoli-2025-serie-a-matchday-23-final-score-result-delayed-reaction-and-random-observations

[Socrates 8475]

UEFA Champions League Squad Updates: Milan and Juventus Face Tough Decisions

 

 

As the January transfer window closes, AC Milan and Juventus are grappling with crucial decisions regarding their UEFA Champions League squad lists. The UEFA regulations, which lean towards conservatism, allow for modifications but not complete overhauls of team rosters. This constraint particularly affects Milan, who were notably active in the winter market.

 

The crux of the matter lies in UEFA’s Article 32, which stipulates that clubs advancing in the Champions League can only register a maximum of three new players to their List A – the 25-player roster for each team. These registrations must be completed by February 6, 2025, at 24:00 CET. ............

 

Juventus faces a similar predicament. The Turin giants are poised to add Kolo Muani, Renato Veiga, and Lloyd Kelly to their European squad. This decision likely means Alberto Costa will be left out of List A. The departures of Arthur and Danilo, along with Bremer’s season-ending injury, create the necessary space for these new additions. ............

 

It’s worth noting that the rules for Serie A differ significantly from UEFA competitions. In the Italian league, clubs have until midnight on the final day of the transfer window to freely modify their 25-player list submitted to the league. Even after the window closes, two changes are permitted. Additionally, players born after January 1, 2002 can be registered on a separate list without impacting the main 25-player roster.

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Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/uefa-champions-league-squad-updates-milan-and-juventus-face-tough-decisions/

[Socrates 8475]

Official: Juventus release Champions League squad – New signing left out

 

 

Juventus have released their squad for the Champions League knockout stages, but the list doesn’t include Alberto Costa. ............

 

As expected, Thiago Motta didn’t include the club’s first January signing, as Costa has been left out. According to UEFA’s regulations, a club can only register three new players in mid-season, so the Bianconeri were forced to omit one of their four winter arrivals.

 

Excluding Randal Kolo Muani was never an option considering his status and immediate impact, while Renato Veiga and Lloyd are also needed on the list to avoid a shortage in the centre-back department. Hence, Costa was the unfortunate party in the equation. The 21-year-old right-back has yet to make his debut since joining in mid-January.

 

On the other hand, Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal have been included despite their ACL woes. Nevertheless, this shouldn’t be considered a sign of a near recovery. Juventus simply added the injured duo to the list because they had several vacant spots on their List A. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/official-juventus-release-champions-league-squad-new-signing-left-out/

[Socrates 8475]

Como vs Juventus: Preview and Prediction

 

 

Fifth-placed Juventus will be looking to secure consecutive wins in Serie A for the first time since November when they square up against Como, who are fighting for survival in the Italian top flight.

 

The home team are 15th on the points table with 22 points in their 23 outings. ............

 

The visitors have accumulated 40 points in their 23 outings. While the Bianconeri have not been at their best, they were unbeaten in the league before they squared up against Napoli towards the end of January.

 

Juventus suffered another defeat at the hands of SL Benfica in the UEFA Champions League. However, Thiago Motta’s men bounced back with a 4-1 win over Empoli, and they will be confident of getting the job done against Como.

Team News & Tactics

Como

 ............

 

 

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Butez; Engelhardt, Goldaniga, Dossena, Valle; Perrone, Caqueret; Strefezza, Paz, Diao; Cutrone

Juventus

The visitors will be without the services of Pierre Kalulu, Bremer, Juan Cabal, Arkadiusz Milik and Andrea Cambiaso. Thiago Motta’s team will line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, where Michele Di Gregorio should be in goal.

 

Winter signing Renato Veiga will continue in the heart of the defence alongside Federico Gatti. Nicolo Savona will be the right-back, while Weston McKennie could slot in at left-back for this outing.

 

In the centre of the park, Manuel Locatelli should partner with Khephren Thuram. They will look to shield the backline and control the tempo of the game. Teun Koopmeiners could feature in the no. 10 role, with Nicolas Gonzalez and Kenan Yıldız on the flanks providing much-needed width to their attacks. Randal Kolo Muani, who joined Juventus this past winter from PSG, should continue to lead the line against Como.

 

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Di Gregorio; Savona, Gatti, Veiga, McKennie; Locatelli, Thuram; Gonzalez, Koopmeiners, Yildiz; Kolo Muani

Key Stats

• Juventus have the opportunity to secure back-to-back wins in the league for the first time in three months.
• Nico Paz has scored in each of Como’s last four home games.
• Since getting promoted to the Italian top flight, Como have only lost four home games.
• Cesc Fabregas’s team have failed to win any of their last ten home matches against Juventus.
• The Old Lady last lost to the home team back in January 1952.

Player to Watch

Kenan Yildiz

The 19-year-old Turkish international is certainly enjoying the opportunities he has been handed by Thiago Motta. The youngster has already racked up over 2,300 minutes in his 33 outings so far, and he has contributed towards 11 goals. Having failed to make any significant contribution in their last four league games, Yildiz will be eager to get on the scoresheet.

Prediction

Como 0-2 Juventus

Juventus might not have been at their best this season, but they still have enough quality in their ranks to go past a team that is fighting for survival. The Old Lady should be able to make it consecutive wins in Serie A. The home team will try to put up a strong fight, but their recent form suggests they won’t be able to cause an upset here. The Hard Tackle predicts a 2-0 win for the away team.

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Read more -> https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2025/02/07/como-vs-juventus-preview-and-prediction/

[Socrates 8475]

Will Thiago Motta start Kolo Muani and Dusan Vlahovic against Como?

 

 

In the closing stages of Juventus’ match against Empoli, Thiago Motta made an intriguing tactical decision by bringing on Dusan Vlahovic while keeping Randal Kolo Muani on the pitch. This resulted in both strikers playing together, with Muani shifting to the left while Vlahovic occupied the central role—his natural position and the one he thrives in the most.

 

Many Juventus fans have long speculated whether the two forwards could be deployed in the same starting lineup. Their brief time together against Empoli offered a glimpse of what that partnership might look like. ............

 

Juventus’ upcoming match against Como is crucial, and the Bianconeri must field their strongest possible XI against Cesc Fabregas’ side. Muani will be eager to maintain his fine run of form, while Vlahovic is in excellent physical condition and will want to build on his recent goal. The big question is whether both strikers can start together from the first whistle.

 

This scenario remains highly unlikely, as Motta’s system does not typically accommodate two central strikers. The manager favours a setup that requires just one focal point in attack, and he is unlikely to sacrifice key players like Teun Koopmeiners, Kenan Yildiz, or Nicolas Gonzalez to accommodate both forwards.

 

While Juve supporters may be curious to see how a Muani-Vlahovic partnership develops, Motta has consistently shown that he prioritises tactical structure over individual names. His system has already yielded promising results, and it is clear that he will continue to select players based on their suitability rather than their reputation. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/will-thiago-motta-start-kolo-muani-and-dusan-vlahovic-against-como/

[Socrates 8475]

Preview: Como vs. Juventus - prediction, team news, lineups

 

 

Seeking consecutive league wins for the first time since November, Juventus visit Serie A strugglers Como on Friday evening.

 

Juve head for Stadio Sinigaglia after overcoming a calamitous start to beat Empoli last time out, while their hosts have just suffered back-to-back defeats.

 

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Match preview

Having previously lost to Napoli in Serie A and then Benfica in their final Champions League fixture, Juventus endured a dismal opening 15 minutes in last week's home game against an ailing Empoli side. ............

 

The Bianconeri can therefore register successive league victories for the first time in almost three months if they win on Friday, when three points would take them back above Lazio and into fourth place.

 

Due to an enormous number of draws, Thiago Motta's men have still won only nine of 23 top-flight matches this season, so their minimum objective of achieving Champions League qualification remains very much in the balance.

 

For that reason, only three points will do at Stadio Sinigaglia, where Juve aim to extend a 22-game unbeaten streak against Como in Serie A. ............

 

Team News

As first-choice centre-back Pierre Kalulu is sidelined by a muscular injury, January signing Renato Veiga made his Juventus debut last weekend, and the Chelsea loanee could continue to fill in on Friday evening.

 

Kalulu again joins long-term absentees Bremer, Juan Cabal and Arkadiusz Milik on the sidelines, and Andrea Cambiaso is still struggling with an ankle issue, but new boy Lloyd Kelly should be available after joining from Newcastle United.

 

Thiago Motta's main selection quandary regards his lone striker: top scorer Dusan Vlahovic has been benched of late but was sent on in the second half of last week's win and played alongside Randal Kolo Muani, netting his first league goal of 2025.

 

Kolo Muani - with three goals in two games so far - could become the first Juve player this century to score in his first three Serie A appearances. ............

 

 

Como possible starting lineup:
Butez; Engelhardt, Goldaniga, Dossena, Valle; Perrone, Caqueret; Strefezza, Paz, Diao; Cutrone

 

Juventus possible starting lineup:
Di Gregorio; Savona, Gatti, Veiga, McKennie; Locatelli, Thuram; Gonzalez, Koopmeiners, Yildiz; Kolo Muani

 

We say: Como 1-2 Juventus

While Como have the talent to defy Juventus on home turf, they are still bedding in several players and may find their leaky defence exploited again.

 

Recent events aside, Juve are notoriously tough to beat, so they can win by one and move back into Serie A's top four.

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Read more -> https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/como/preview/preview-como-vs-juventus-prediction-team-news-lineups_564867.html

[Socrates 8475]

Serie A| Como v Juventus: Match Preview

 

 

As the Serie A season enters its critical phase, Como and Juventus are set to face off in a match that holds significant implications for both sides. The fixture, scheduled for Friday evening at Stadio Sinigaglia, pits a team fighting for survival against one aiming to secure a Champions League spot.

 

Juventus, currently sitting just outside the top four, arrive in Como with renewed confidence following their emphatic 4-1 victory over Empoli last weekend. The win, which featured a brace from new signing Randal Kolo Muani, ended a brief spell of poor form for the Bianconeri. Manager Thiago Motta will be eager to see his team build on this performance and secure consecutive league wins for the first time since November. ............

 

Juventus’ historical dominance over Como adds another layer of confidence to their approach. The Turin giants are unbeaten in their last 22 Serie A encounters against the Lariani, with Como’s last victory dating back to January 1952. This impressive record, combined with their recent return to winning ways, makes Juventus the favourites heading into the match. ............

 

For Juventus, all eyes will be on Randal Kolo Muani, who has made an immediate impact since joining the club. The French striker has scored three goals in his first two Serie A appearances and could become the first Juventus player this century to score in his opening three league games. ............

 

Team News

Juventus continue to grapple with injuries, with Pierre Kalulu, Bremer, Juan Cabal, and Arkadiusz Milik all sidelined. Recent signing Renato Veiga could retain his place in defense after making his debut last weekend. The return of Lloyd Kelly from injury provides Motta with additional defensive options. ............

 

Expected Starting XIs

Como: Butez; Engelhardt, Goldaniga, Dossena, Valle; Perrone, Caqueret; Strefezza, Paz, Diao; Cutrone

 

Juventus: Di Gregorio; Savona, Gatti, Veiga, McKennie; Locatelli, Thuram; Gonzalez, Koopmeiners, Yildiz; Kolo Muani

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Match Prediction

While Como have shown they can be formidable at home, Juventus’ quality and the need for points to secure a top-four finish should see them through. The Old Lady’s defensive solidity, combined with their newfound attacking potency, is likely to prove too much for Como’s still-gelling squad.

 

Prediction: Como 1-2 Juventus

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Read more -> https://www.footitalia.com/serie-a-como-v-juventus-match-preview/

[Socrates 8475]

Como vs. Juventus match preview

 

 

Let’s go back to Aug. 19, 2024.

 

Juventus, with their new manager in toe, opened up the 2024-25 season with a bang, beating one of Serie A’s newest clubs, Como, at the Allianz Stadium. It was the first competitive fixture for this new-look Juve side with so much change taking place over the summer — and with even more players coming and going before the transfer window came to a close.

 

That was 5 ¹⁄₂ months ago when the vibes were good — maybe even considered “very good” after a win like the Bianconeri put forward against Como.

 

The vibes as we sit here in February are very much not like what they were during the opening weekend of the new season and the Motta era. But, as Juve are trying to at least attempt to get the vibes going in a positive direction again. ............

 

But here’s the “funny” thing about this little game of ours: Juventus and Como have the same amount of wins in the new year. That’s not what you would expect from a team that is competing for a place in the top four when being compared to a team sitting just outside the relegation zone.

 

The catch is that ever since Juventus beat Como to open the 2024-25 season and then Hellas Verona by the same 3-0 scoreline, the amount of times Motta’s squad have won back-to-back games since then has been stuck on only one for months now. ............

 

Let’s just hope that Juventus can add to it against a team that, despite all of their struggles, have collected 15 of their 22 points on the season on their home turf. Let’s just not go ahead and talk about what Juve did the last time they played away from home, OK? That just doesn’t feel like a time that any of us would like to remember.

TEAM NEWS

• As expected, Thiago Motta said at his pre-match press conference that both Andrea Cambiaso and Pierre Kalulu will miss the trip to Como due to injury.
• The other injury absences are the trio of long-term injuries: Gleison Bremer, Juan Cabal and Arek Milik, who has reportedly returned to his native Poland to undergo further treatment with a return date still very much completely unknown.
• All four January signings — Randal Kolo Muani, Renato Veiga, Lloyd Kelly and Alberto Costa — have been called up for the trip to Como. ............

JUVENTUS PLAYER TO WATCH

The last two times Juve have faced Serie A opposition, a January signing has been thrust into the starting lineup and made his club debut in interesting circumstances.

 

That probably won’t be the case once again Friday night, but one of those previous debutants will hopefully be a little less unsettled when things kickoff against Como.

 

Renato Veiga is expected to start alongside Federico Gatti for the second straight game — a sign that Motta isn’t necessarily needing to rush another winter signing into the lineup amidst a depth crunch that has been a constant theme for months. It’s also important if Veiga does indeed become Motta’s choice over the next few weeks to be Gatti’s partner in the center of defense, that the duo of rather large gentlemen continue to develop some some sort of rapport. ............

 

Veiga’s first Juventus appearance was very much what you would expect to start things out — he was clearly nervous, clearly not on the same page with Gatti at times and an overall shaky package. The good thing is that as time went on, Veiga settled in and played pretty well when it was all said in done. During a time in which Juventus’ defense has seen players not named Gatti consistently played out of position, having some semblance of normalcy will be critical. ............

 

MATCH INFO

When: Friday, Feb. 7, 2025.

Where: Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, Como, Italy.

Official kickoff time: 8:45 p.m. in Italy and the Central European time zone, 7:45 p.m. in the United Kingdom, 2:45 p.m. Eastern time, 11:45 a.m. Pacific time.

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Read more -> https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2025/2/7/24359743/como-juvenuts-2025-serie-a-matchday-24-preview-team-news-schedule-how-to-watch

[Socrates 8475]

Serie A Preview: Como vs Juventus – Team News, Line-ups & Prediction

 

 

Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia sets the stage for Como’s first home game against Juventus in Serie A since February 2003. The first top-flight meeting between the sides in over two decades in August didn’t end well for Cesc Fabregas’ team. ............

 

Juventus pulled off a scintillating comeback to dismantle bottom-half Empoli 4-1 at home last weekend. Winter addition Randal Kolo Muani bagged a brace on his home debut for the Bianconeri to initiate the turnaround before Dusan Vlahovic and Francisco Conceicao sealed the Azzurri’s fate.

 

However, there’s no time for celebration as Juventus commence this round two points adrift of fourth-placed Fiorentina after blowing hot and cold across their last four league outings (W2, D1, L1). With a Champions League playoff tie against PSV Eindhoven waiting around the corner, Thiago Motta would probably appreciate a positive result in Lombardy.

Match Preview

Como

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Juventus

 

Another win after the abovementioned rout of Empoli would temporarily lift Juventus into Serie A’s top four. More importantly, it would be the ultimate confidence booster ahead of their Champions League showdown against PSV, whom they already defeated 3-1 this season.

 

Winning in succession has eluded Juventus, though. Their last set of back-to-back league victories dates back to early November. That lack of consistency has been an issue for Motta’s team, even though they have only lost once in Serie A this season.

 

But that defeat came on their last league road trip as they squandered a halftime lead in a dismal 2-1 loss at Napoli. Without a win in four consecutive away matches (D3, L1), Juventus take this trip to defy their notorious reputation as ‘stalemate specialists.’

 

Seven draws from their last nine away matches in all competitions have cemented that status (W1, L1), causing plenty of frustration among the Bianconeri faithful. Moreover, Juventus’ defense has capitulated in five Serie A away games in a row for the first time since May 2022.

Team News

Juventus will enter this clash without long-term absentees Gleison Bremer, Juan Cabal, and Arkadiusz Milik. Milan loanee Pierre Kalulu has recently joined this list, meaning new boy Lloyd Kelly could be in for his Serie A debut after arriving from Newcastle United.

Como vs Juventus Potential Starting Line-ups

Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Engelhardt, Goldaniga, Dossena, Valle; Perrone, Caqueret; Strefezza, Paz, Diao; Cutrone.

 

Juventus (4-2-3-1): Di Gregorio; Savona, Gatti, Veiga, McKennie; Locatelli, Thuram; Gonzalez, Koopmeiners, Yildiz; Kolo Muani.

Como vs Juventus Prediction

Juventus must rediscover their defensive resilience to increase their chances of taking three points after scoring one goal or fewer on eight of their last nine competitive travels. Patience could be the key, given that only Parma (15) have conceded more second-half goals in Serie A this season than Como’s 14.

 

Needless to say, we back the visitors for the win.

 

Prediction: Juventus to Win

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Read more -> https://cultofcalcio.com/serie-a-preview-como-vs-juventus-team-news-line-ups-prediction/

[Socrates 8475]

[Socrates 8475]

[Socrates 8475]

[Socrates 8475]

Kolo Muani saves Juventus blushes with a brace against Como

 

 

 

Juventus secured a 2-1 victory against Como this evening, achieving back-to-back wins for the first time since November.

 

Both teams began the match steadily, but it was after the tenth minute that either side came close to scoring, as Nico Paz forced a save from Michele Di Gregorio.

 

Como remained the more threatening side on the night, with Lucas Da Cunha the next to test Di Gregorio. Despite their chances, Como failed to capitalise, and when an opportunity fell to Randal Kolo Muani, he took it superbly to open the scoring.

 

Juventus believed they would go into the break ahead, but Assane Diao equalised for the home side in added time. ............

 

Juve made changes as they struggled to find a second goal, but Como continued to frustrate them. The home side also had moments of danger against the Old Lady, yet Juve looked the more likely to score next. Their persistence paid off when they were awarded a late penalty.

 

Muani stepped up and converted, taking his tally to five goals in three games and securing all three points for Juve. ............

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Read more -> https://www.juvefc.com/kolo-muani-saves-juventus-blushes-with-a-brace-against-como/

[Socrates 8475]

Kolo Muani scores another brace as Juventus strike late to beat Como

 

 

Randal Kolo Muani's penalty in the 89th minute sent Juventus past Como 2-1 in an unconvincing Serie A win on Friday.

 

Kolo Muani, on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, scored twice for the second game in a row. ............

 

Kolo Muani gave the visitors all three points with a penalty after Jean Butez handled. He's scored five times in three games.

 

The win lifted Juventus to fourth, a point above Lazio and Fiorentina, both of whom have a game in hand. Lazio play bottom club Monza on Sunday, while Fiorentina take on second-placed Inter Milan on Monday. ............

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Read more -> https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-14374121/Kolo-Muani-scores-brace-Juventus-strike-late-beat-Como.html

[Socrates 8475]

Kolo Muani on ‘dream Juventus start’ and Di Gregorio ambition

 

 

Randal Kolo Muani admits it has been a ‘dream’ start at Juventus with five goals in three games, as Michele Di Gregorio believes they will ‘keep getting stronger’ after the 2-1 win at Como. ............

 

Kolo Muani is the first player since Roberto Baggio in 1990-91 to score in each of his first three Serie A appearances for Juventus.

 

“It’s very important to play to win, now we get three points today in a difficult match, we are very happy and can prepare for the next game,” Kolo Muani told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“It’s a dream for me, I am very happy to be here with my new teammates. I am just happy to be at Juve.” ............

 

Di Gregorio had to make several big saves to keep Juventus in the game, especially on Nico Paz.

 

“It is a difficult place to play, Como play good football and cause you problems when they have possession,” the goalkeeper told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“It was important to win, we fought to the end and really wanted these points.” ............

 

“I believe that like Randal, the other new players settled in straight away. We are creating something good here and it is going to just keep getting stronger.”

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Read more -> https://football-italia.net/kolo-muani-on-dream-juventus-start-di-gregorio/