Turin's European Wake-Up Call: Can Spalletti Reignite Juventus in the Champions League?
3 November 2025
Key updates ahead of Juventus vs Sporting Lisbon
Juventus, led by new head coach Luciano Spalletti, continue preparations for their UEFA Champions League match against Sporting Lisbon after a league victory away at Cremonese. The focus is on tightening the setup and rediscovering their rhythm on the European stage.
Spalletti's blueprint and squad status
The Italian tactician hopes to ignite a strong European run as Juventus chase their first Champions League win of the season, hosting Sporting CP at the Allianz Stadium on Tuesday in Group stage action.
According to the Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, there is a real possibility that Turkish star Kenan Yildiz could rejoin the squad for this decisive encounter.
Yildiz has recovered from a recurring knee issue and has rejoined team training, which could pave the way for a Tuesday appearance if medical checks grant clearance.
In contrast, the status of English defender Lloyd Kelly remains uncertain, with him continuing an individual training program in Turin and his involvement looking increasingly unlikely for the match.
Spalletti is pushing to start his European campaign with a strong showing to keep Juventus firmly in the race for qualification to the knockout rounds.
After three Champions League games, Juventus sit on two points (two draws and a loss), while Sporting Lisbon have six from their first three fixtures.
Spalletti: the new leader
Spalletti’s managerial journey spans Empoli, Udinese, Roma, Zenit Saint Petersburg, Napoli, and the Italian national team, earning him a reputation as one of Italy’s most creative coaches.
His appointment at Juventus followed the decision to move on from the previous coach, with negotiations quickly advancing and a contract tied through June, with an automatic extension possible if Champions League qualification is secured.
Following a decisive meeting, Spalletti emerged as the leading candidate to take the helm in Turin, aiming to guide Juventus back to Europe’s elite. He previously guided Napoli to the Italian league title and has coached at top clubs across Italy and abroad.
Matchday notes
Spalletti, in his first remarks, warned that pressure on players can weigh on some more than others, a sentiment echoed after Juventus’ 2-1 league win last weekend. In his first training session with the new group, he kept a pragmatic 3-5-2 shape and experimented with a deep-lying playmaker to balance attack and control.
The squad’s attacking trident showed potency in the recent moments, with the veterans delivering while the new coach assessed balance and cohesion in possession and pressing. The focus remains on tightening defensive structure and exploiting quick transitions against Sporting.
Journey and plans
Toward the end of the piece, the narrative shifts to Todor's departure and the club’s pursuit of a stable long-term plan. The board has looked for a coach who can build a sustainable project, and Spalletti’s immediate impact points toward a clear direction for Juventus this season.
Spalletti’s career includes league titles and European runs with Napoli, as well as stints coaching the Italian national team, Roma, and other top clubs. His philosophy emphasizes balance, intelligent pressing, and flexibility in midfield structure, all aimed at restoring Juventus’ aura in Europe.
And for the record, if the plan requires a miracle, just add more espresso: the only thing stronger than Juve’s defense is the club’s coffee culture—and yes, both might wake a city in two halves.
And remember: if the match ends in a draw, it’s not a failure of talent but a reminder that even football has a diplomatic approach to suspense. Now, pass the popcorn.
