Juventus have decided to keep Luciano Spalletti in charge for now, despite the club’s recent run of poor results and growing uncertainty over his position.
The decision was made after the squad reported to the Continassa training ground following a night of boos and errors in Naples. No “radical” changes were made, but Spalletti’s position is not considered completely secure. Another significant setback could alter the situation.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Spalletti remains convinced that he can turn Juventus’ season around. The club also wants to see evidence that challenges the recent direction of the team, beginning with Thursday night’s match against Rennes at the Allianz Stadium.
Spalletti’s comments after the 3-0 defeat by Lazio, and the reaction of supporters at the Allianz Stadium, had already raised concerns. The coach questioned whether the players still supported him, an indication that he had begun to seriously reflect on his position.
Despite those doubts, Juventus believe the former Italy national team coach still has control of the dressing room. Some signs have suggested otherwise, however, and the coming matches are expected to provide a clearer indication of the players’ attitude.
European focus
Juventus’ European campaign has taken on added importance after a difficult start in Serie A. They are eight points behind the league leaders after seven rounds, making progress in Europe particularly significant.
The club are regarded as one of the favourites to win the competition. Success would bring direct qualification for next season’s Champions League, giving Juventus another route back to Europe’s leading club tournament.
Spalletti has already spoken to the players. Although there is some dissatisfaction within the squad, they listened carefully to what he had to say. The coach believes he can restore the form Juventus showed earlier this year, before May.
The club’s senior figures remain involved in assessing the situation. Chairman John Elkann is in the United States on business, while CEO Carnevali is in close contact with Exor’s CEO. Spalletti therefore retains an opportunity to fight for his position.
Supporters continue to dream of Antonio Conte returning to Juventus. Conte is currently unemployed and lives in the city, but the club’s immediate attention is on Rennes rather than a change in the dugout.
Bremer meeting planned
Spalletti is also expected to hold a face-to-face meeting with captain Bremer in the coming hours. The conversation will focus on the problems affecting the team and the defender’s recent comments.
Bremer said: “I can only do so much; if someone hides from the boos, there’s nothing I can do.”
Spalletti replied: “He was also in the game until the very last moment.”
The message from Juventus is clear: the team must now produce performances that run against the recent trend. If those signs do not arrive, the course of the club’s autumn crisis could change significantly.
