Senegal midfielder Pape Matar Sarr could return to Juventus’ starting line-up for Wednesday’s match against Genoa after recovering from an adductor injury.
The 24-year-old is being considered for a starting role following his return to action in Juventus’ 2-0 victory over Lecce, with Italian newspaper Tuttosport reporting that he is in contention to feature from the beginning.
Sarr had been struggling with a muscle strain in his adductor, which had cast doubt over his availability for the Lecce fixture.
However, his physical progress has reportedly been satisfactory, allowing manager Luciano Spalletti to bring him back into action.
The Senegal international’s potential return to the starting side would provide Juventus with another option in midfield as they navigate a busy period of fixtures.
Spalletti is understood to value Sarr’s physical strength and ability to cover ground, qualities that could help the team maintain its balance in the middle of the pitch.
The midfielder could partner Douglas Luiz and Weston McKennie as Juventus prepare for their trip to Genoa, although a final decision on whether he is ready to start remains with the Italian coach.
Sarr’s recovery is a positive development after his recent fitness setback, with the player now available for selection.
However, his workload will need to be considered as Juventus manage their schedule during a congested week.
Reports indicate that Spalletti views the Senegalese player as an option either to start or to make an appearance from the bench, leaving open the possibility that he could be eased back into a more prominent role.
The midfielder’s return against Lecce offered an indication that he was making progress after the adductor problem.
His potential involvement from the start against Genoa would represent a further step towards regaining his place in the team.
Sarr’s physical attributes are considered an important part of his contribution. His capacity to cover large areas of the pitch could help Juventus strengthen their midfield structure, particularly alongside Luiz and McKennie.
The possibility of using Sarr in a 3-5-2 system has also been highlighted in reports ahead of Wednesday’s match, with his energy and presence viewed as useful qualities in that formation.
However, Juventus will need to assess his readiness before deciding how much responsibility to give him.
Although the Senegal international has recovered from the minor injury and is available, it remains uncertain whether he will be included in the starting eleven or used as a substitute.
For Sarr, the immediate objective will be to build on his return against Lecce and regain regular involvement after the interruption caused by his muscle problem.
His availability gives Spalletti greater flexibility when selecting his midfield, while the coach can decide whether the player is ready to handle a full starting role or would benefit from a more gradual return.
Juventus’ 2-0 win over Lecce provided the backdrop for Sarr’s return, and the team will now turn its attention to the meeting with Genoa.
With his fitness reportedly improving, the Senegalese midfielder is in contention to play a greater role on Wednesday.
The final decision will depend on Spalletti’s assessment of his condition and the demands of the upcoming fixture.