Injury Woes Mount for Juventus
Juventus is currently battling a significant injury crisis, with nine first-team players unavailable for selection. This extensive list includes several key figures, particularly in midfield and attack. Manuel Locatelli is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, expected to be out for five to six months following meniscus surgery [1]. Similarly, Khéphren Thuram will not return to action until January 2027 due to knee surgery, representing a substantial long-term absence for the club [1]. Forward Kenan Yıldız is also out with a fractured foot, with his return anticipated at the end of November 2026 [1]. These long-term injuries are compounded by several day-to-day concerns. Andrea Cambiaso is being monitored for a twisted ankle, and Weston McKennie is being checked for muscle fatigue [1]. Other players currently out include Juan Cabal (left thigh muscle injury, expected back in one month), Jeff Ekhator (right thigh muscle injury, 30-40 days out), and Jeremie Boga (left thigh muscle injury, 40-50 days out) [1]. Pape Sarr is also being monitored daily. This injury plague will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of the Juventus squad in the coming weeks.
Transfer Movements and Contract Considerations
Despite the current injury challenges, Juventus has been active in the transfer market, both with new arrivals and departures. Randal Kolo Muani, Guglielmo Vicario, and Jhon Lucumí have all joined the club, strengthening various positions [2]. On the departure front, Loïs Openda was a major exit from the squad [2]. Looking ahead, the club’s financial situation, while improving under CEO Giovanni Carnevali, still necessitates careful management. To reach break-even by 2028 and avoid potential capital increases, significant player sales and increased revenues will be crucial [2]. This financial pressure has led to rumors that Juventus may need to sell valuable assets such as Kenan Yıldız and Kerim Alajbegović [2]. Meanwhile, Nico González, who was a transfer target for Juventus during the summer, has impressed since his arrival, putting in a promising 64-minute display against Milan [3]. His strong performances have led the club to evaluate a contract extension for him [3].
Expected Line-up and Upcoming Fixture
Given the extensive injury list, Juventus’s starting XI for their upcoming Serie A match against Sassuolo will see some forced changes. In central midfield, Douglas Luiz and Teun Koopmeiners are expected to start, providing a new look to the engine room of the team [4]. The defense is anticipated to remain unchanged from the previous match, offering some stability amidst the turmoil. The club’s early-season injury struggles are a significant concern, impacting team selection and tactical flexibility [3]. The match against Sassuolo will be a crucial test of the squad’s depth and ability to perform under pressure, especially with so many key players sidelined. The team will need to rely on the available talent and tactical adjustments to secure a positive result and maintain their position in the league standings.
What it means
Juventus currently sits in 6th place in Serie A with 7 points from 3 games, having won two and drawn one, scoring 4 goals and conceding only 1. Their recent form shows a mixed bag, with a 1-1 draw against AC Milan at home, a 2-0 home win against Parma Calcio 1913, and a 1-0 away win against Frosinone Calcio. Looking further back, they drew 2-2 away to Torino FC and lost 0-2 at home to ACF Fiorentina at the end of the previous season. This season’s start indicates a solid defensive foundation but perhaps a need for more attacking prowess. The next fixture is an away game against Sassuolo on September 13th. With a strong defensive record so far this season, Juventus will aim to continue their unbeaten run in the league, despite the significant injury challenges. The site’s forecast for this match will be locked 24 hours before kick-off, providing further insight into the expected outcome.
Sources
- Football Italia: Juventus injury updates: When will Yildiz, Locatelli, Thuram and McKennie return? football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Carnevali responsible as Juventus finances show improvement football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Juventus evaluate contract u-turn for Gonzalez football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: How Juventus could line up against Sassuolo amid injury crisis football-italia.net ↩