Spalletti Faces Fiorentina with Quiet Confidence as Yildiz Debate Remains Off-Side

Ahead of the Fiorentina clash

Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti voiced satisfaction with the current squad, noting injuries have eased and a four-man defence could be on the horizon. He stressed that more time would be required to perfect the defensive shape, but the options available gave him confidence to push forward.

The team travels to Artemio Franchi to face Fiorentina on Saturday, in Week 12 of the Serie A campaign. Spalletti underscored the importance of readiness after the international break and hinted at tactical tweaks to bolster solidity at the back.

In the pre-match press conference, he said: “We’ve worked hard, but we didn’t have many players available. With the players who were here, we focused on things I consider important.”

He added that the staff had sought new ideas with the whole squad the day before, noting that one player even undertook a ten-hour journey just to be present. “We had to be careful with some, but today everyone is available,” he affirmed.

Under Spalletti, Juventus have recorded one win and two draws, and Fiorentina still chase their first league victory of the season, a factor that could intensify a challenging away trip for the visitors.

Defensive options, player flexibility, and the Yildiz question

Spalletti touched on a defender who has featured as left-back in a back three and suggested he might be used in midfield if needed, highlighting the flexibility within the squad and the coach’s willingness to adapt to circumstances. He observed that the standout players prove their quality wherever they are deployed, and modern football often rewards versatility.

The coach praised the positive response from the squad, noting that a player who had to adapt quickly to different roles has shown maturity and leadership that strengthen the group as a whole. With experienced defenders back in the mix, Juve could harness more balance in midfield if the opportunity arises.

On Kenan Yildiz’s future, Spalletti refused to discuss renewal negotiations, stating that such matters are not his to decide. “I won’t discuss the renewal; that is not my business. I will study it, but the club knows what to do,” he said. He added that working with Yildiz is easy; the Turkish forward disrupts opponents and helps the team maintain cohesion, making him a valuable asset for the near future.

Speaking about Italy’s national team, Spalletti reflected on his tenure and the reports surrounding his departure after a heavy loss to Norway. “I’ve burned more oil than they say I have,” he joked, underscoring that the broader discussions often miss the bigger picture. He stressed that the national team remains strong and deserves support for the players and the coach alike, regardless of salvos of controversy.

Concluding, Spalletti reiterated his readiness to assist the national side if needed, and urged his Juve players to show their best. “I’ll enter the stadium calm and ready to deliver, as always,” he said, anticipating a tough but potentially spectacular matchup. He warned that the match would be hard and urged his players to demonstrate unity, focus, and precision in every phase of the game.

Punchline time: If football were chess, Spalletti would already be two moves ahead with a back four—and still somehow juggling a coffee cup. Punchline two: He’ll take anything the Fiorentina test throws at him, because in football, even a plan B can feel like a plan A after a while.