Spalletti Discusses Juventus vs Udinese: Prefers Vlahovic in the Lineup
Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti recently spoke about his team’s preparations ahead of the Coppa Italia match against Udinese. He expressed his regret over the absence of striker Dusan Vlahovic, who is sidelined due to an adductor injury.
Spalletti’s Coppa Italia Focus
As Juventus kicks off its Coppa Italia campaign, Spalletti emphasized the importance of both winning and playing attractive football. The match against Udinese marks the Round of 16, with the victor expected to face either Atalanta or Genoa in the quarter-finals scheduled for February.
Remembering a Tennis Legend
Before discussing the match, Spalletti paid tribute to the late Nicola Pietrangeli, a renowned tennis player who passed away at the age of 92. He credited Pietrangeli for significantly contributing to the sport, impacting future generations.
Vlahovic’s Injury and Team Dynamics
Spalletti revealed that Vlahovic’s injury, expected to keep him out for two to three months, necessitates some adjustments in the squad. He noted that the entire team has been working hard and that everyone deserves a chance to contribute. The pressure to perform remains high.
“Juventus supporters have a fine palate,” Spalletti remarked. “Winning isn’t just about the result, it’s also about how we play. We want to deliver beautiful football alongside victories.”
Player Contributions
Spalletti also praised young midfielder Fabio Miretti, highlighting his capabilities and professionalism. Miretti has become a key player recently and offers versatility in various roles.
- Age: 92
- Injury Duration for Vlahovic: 2-3 months
- Next Match Opponent: Udinese
- Potential Next Opponent: Atalanta or Genoa
Regarding Edon Zhegrova, who has recently faced challenges in securing playing time, Spalletti mentioned that the young talent has the potential to make a significant impact once he regains full fitness. The coach aims to assess Zhegrova’s capabilities closely in the upcoming matches.
With Vlahovic absent and other adjustments required, Spalletti remains optimistic about the team’s prospects in the crucial Coppa Italia clash. He aims to uphold Juventus’s tradition of playing attractive football while pursuing victory on the pitch.
