In a much-awaited Derby d’Italia, Juventus and Inter Milan’s clash ended in a rather uninspiring 1-1 draw last Sunday. The match, held in Turin, was anticipated to be a feast for football enthusiasts but instead, turned out to be a display of mediocrity, with both teams playing cautiously, possibly out of fear of losing.
Roma’s manager, Jose Mourinho, has previously remarked that Inter, with their robust squad, excellent management, and Lautaro Martinez’s striking prowess, should effortlessly dominate the league. Despite financial constraints, Inter has shown an impressive ability to build a strong team on a limited budget.
Juventus, on the other hand, seems to have lost its sheen over the years. This season marks the first time in over a decade that they’re not competing in European football, a downfall attributed to poor management decisions, subpar transfers, and last season’s point deductions. The Turin-based club, once a dominant force, now appears more vulnerable.
Paolo di Canio, a former Juventus player, notes that the current Juventus squad lacks high-quality players, yet credits coach Massimiliano Allegri for maximizing the team’s defensive strengths. Surprisingly, Juventus was second in the league standings before this match, despite what many consider being their weakest squad in recent times. They have shining stars like Federico Chiesa and Gleison Bremer, but the rest of the team doesn’t seem to match the high standards usually associated with Juventus.
Compounding their challenges, key players like Paul Pogba and Nicolo Fagioli are currently unavailable due to suspension and a betting scandal, respectively. This forced Juventus to field a less experienced midfield including Nicolussi Caviglia, Weston McKennie, and Adrien Rabiot.
Dusan Vlahovic, who scored in the draw against Inter, has faced criticism for his performance. There’s ongoing debate whether his lackluster play is due to Juventus’ overall style or his own inability to adapt. Coach Allegri, known for his pragmatic approach, has shaped Juventus into a team that capitalizes on small victories, often relying on set-pieces for scoring opportunities.
Juventus’ style under Allegri is characterized by patience and strategic timing, rather than aggressive, forward play. This approach has led to numerous narrow victories, with Juventus leading in 1-0 wins since Allegri’s return. This cautious, defense-first strategy is reminiscent of the team’s approach under Marcello Lippi in the late 1990s.
Despite their conservative playstyle, Juventus was far more dynamic in the past, even under Allegri during their Champions League finals runs. The current team, however, is far from the heights of European football, despite being the wealthiest club in Italy with the highest wage bill.
Inter Milan, with their growing revenues and smart financial management, continue to build winning teams despite having to sell top players. They are favored to win Serie A, but Juventus, with their recent performances and Allegri’s tactical nous, cannot be counted out.
This season, Juventus has shown more confidence and tactical adaptability, focusing solely on Serie A. Allegri downplays title aspirations, but the sentiment in the dressing room seems different. The question remains: Can Juventus reclaim their former glory?
Mina Rzouki, a renowned European football journalist and broadcaster, is covering this season for Sport News Center. If you have questions about European football, submit them below for Mina to address in her upcoming columns.
The above content has been paraphrased and elaborated for clarity and depth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Juventus Serie A analysis
Why was the Juventus vs Inter Milan match considered lackluster?
The Juventus vs Inter Milan match, highly anticipated as the Derby d’Italia, ended in a 1-1 draw, which was deemed dull due to both teams playing cautiously. The match lacked the expected excitement and intensity, with a display of mediocrity from both sides.
How has Juventus’ performance been described in recent years?
Juventus, traditionally one of Italy’s top football clubs, has experienced a decline in recent years. This is attributed to poor management, underwhelming transfer decisions, and a series of point deductions. The team has been described as lacking high-quality players and struggling to maintain its historical dominance.
What are the criticisms faced by Dusan Vlahovic at Juventus?
Dusan Vlahovic, a forward for Juventus, has faced criticism for his performance, being labeled an expensive flop. Critics argue that he struggles to play with his back to goal and has not significantly enhanced the team’s play in the final third. There is debate over whether this is due to the team’s overall style or his own adaptation issues.
How does coach Massimiliano Allegri’s strategy impact Juventus’ gameplay?
Massimiliano Allegri, known for his pragmatic approach, has led Juventus to focus on securing small victories and heavily relying on set-pieces. Allegri’s strategy emphasizes defensive play and patience, leading to a number of narrow 1-0 victories. This approach is a shift from the more dynamic style seen in Juventus’ past.
Can Juventus still be considered a contender for the Serie A title?
Despite the criticisms and challenges faced by Juventus, they remain a contender for the Serie A title. Their recent performances and coach Allegri’s tactical expertise keep them in the race. The team has shown adaptability and resilience, making them a team that cannot be easily discounted in the competition.
More about Juventus Serie A analysis
- BBC Sport – Serie A: Juventus might be title contenders after ‘dull’ Inter Milan draw
- Sport News Center – Mina Rzouki
3 comments
vlahovic needs to step up, juve cnt rely on him alone. #forzajuve
Allegri’s tactics r boring, but they work. juve’s still in the mix. #SerieA
great analysis mina! i agree juve not as gud as old days, but still hopeful. inter looking strong tho.