Spalletti Opens Juventus Era with Bold Squad Selection and Surprising Exclusions

Spalletti's Juventus Era Gets Underway

Luciano Spalletti, Juventus' new head coach, unveiled his first squad since taking charge last Thursday, ahead of their Saturday evening Serie A clash with Cremonese in the tenth round.

Two notable selections or omissions grabbed attention: Kenan Yildiz, the Turkish winger, and Lloyd Kelly, the English defender, were left out due to ongoing physical issues, signaling a cautious start from the coach with the squad's health in focus.

Spalletti's appointment followed a disastrous start under his predecessor Igor Tudor, who was dismissed after eight games without a win and three consecutive defeats in which the team failed to score. The club moved quickly to reset mood and results.

The contract offered to Spalletti is initially through the summer 2026, with a review at season end as Juventus aims to return to their former vigor and attacking intent.

The coach arrived at the Continassa training complex on Friday, leading his first session before traveling to Cremona for the match, signaling a hands on start to his era.

The head coach named a 22-man squad for the trip, a mix of familiar faces and new options that will be evaluated as schedules tighten.

Goalkeepers included Michele Di Gregorio and Mattia Perin, with the two shot-stoppers set to compete for playing time depending on the opposition and the rest of the season.

In defense the options ranged across several regulars and youngsters, with key names in the mix as Juve looks for balance, solidity, and the ability to transition quickly into attack.

Midfield selections featured a blend of experienced operators and younger collaborators, aiming to provide control, pace, and pressing intensity.

The attack lineup included a group capable of varied movement, threading combinations, and goal threat while the coach tests different partnerships to sharpen the edge in front of goal.

On the injury front, Yildiz remains sidelined with a left knee tendon issue, a problem that limited his recent involvement despite a productive return against Udinese midweek.

Lloyd Kelly also missed the Cremonese clash due to back pain, though medical checks found no serious damage and a return to full training seems likely in a matter of days.

Meanwhile, Tudor's stint at Juventus is revisited in context. The Croatian coach arrived in March and steered the team to a fourth place finish and Champions League qualification, but his tenure struggled this season as results fell away.

Tudor's reign ended after a season of mixed success, with the club citing the need for a fresh start after a run of underwhelming performances and a poor scoring record.

Spalletti, during his official presentation in front of the club in Turin, expressed confidence in Juventus potential and emphasized a return to the club's traditional ambition, insisting that the squad can compete for the title.

He also stressed a philosophy centered on organization and teamwork rather than relying on individual stars, noting that modern football rewards a collective effort that defends well, recovers the ball, and transitions with purpose.

Expect gradual tactical adjustments as Spalletti shapes the team around a fast, controlled passing game and disciplined pressing, drawing on the methods that brought success at his previous clubs.

As fans anticipate the first appearance of the new Juventus era against Cremonese, the aim is clear: restore the club's status among Europe’s elite and rebuild an identity that has wavered in recent weeks.

Bottom line, the road ahead is challenging, yet the sense of possibility is palpable, with a coach who has proven he can revive a club. The Old Lady hopes this is the turning point.

Punchline 1: Spalletti’s precise plan is so sharp that even the backline will need sunglasses to prevent the offside from blinding them.

Punchline 2: If this turnaround arrives, Juventus fans may need to adjust their calendar as every week could bring trophies rather than excuses.