Luciano Spalletti is set for his European debut as Juventus manager when the Bianconeri face Sporting Lisbon at the Allianz Stadium. After a mixed start in domestic competition, this match carries extra weight — Juventus are still searching for their first win in this season’s Champions League and need points to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Spalletti can finally count on Kenan Yildiz, who has recovered from a knee issue and returns to the squad. Up front, Dusan Vlahovic is expected to lead the line once again, with the coach recently confirming the striker’s desire to remain at Juventus. Alongside him, Weston McKennie and Yildiz are likely to occupy the advanced midfield roles in support.
Sporting Lisbon, managed by Rui Borges, arrive in Turin in solid form after securing two wins from their first three European fixtures, defeating Marseille and Kairat before losing in Naples. Both teams are eager to secure a positive result to strengthen their chances of progressing to the knockout stage.
Juventus remain without several key players. Long-term absentees Bremer, Cabal, and Milik are still sidelined, while English defender Lloyd Kelly is unavailable due to a thigh injury and is not expected back until after the international break.
Probable Juventus Line-up (3-4-2-1)
Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Kostic; McKennie, Yildiz; Vlahovic
Probable Sporting Lisbon Line-up (4-2-3-1)
Rui Silva; Vagiannidis, Inácio, Diomande, Maxi; Simões, Hjulmand; Trincão, Pote, Geny; Ioanidis
