After the Christmas break, Juventus return to action with one clear objective — to win and maintain the momentum built in recent weeks. The Bianconeri come into tonight’s clash at the Arena Garibaldi (kick-off at 20:45) following a convincing victory over Roma, a match that provided head coach Luciano Spalletti with encouraging answers both from individual players and from the collective performance.
That result allowed Juventus to close the gap on the Champions League spots, with even the top of the table no longer looking out of reach. However, before turning their attention to the standings, Spalletti’s men must focus on their immediate task — leaving Pisa with all three points.
Pisa, managed by Alberto Gilardino, are enduring a difficult spell. The Nerazzurri haven’t won in six matches and have managed just one victory so far this season. With pressure mounting, Gilardino will view this as a crucial fixture to turn their fortunes around, adding extra intensity to what promises to be a delicate encounter for both sides.
There’s still a defensive doubt for Spalletti, with Kelly and Bremer vying for a starting role. The Englishman may be rested, giving Bremer a slight edge to start, though his fitness will be managed carefully after light training during the week. In midfield, Weston McKennie has recovered from his recent issues and could return to the starting XI, potentially operating behind the striker alongside Kenan Yildiz. On the flanks, Andrea Cambiaso and Filip Kostić are expected to start, while up front there’s a familiar battle between Jonathan David and Loïs Openda — with the Canadian currently favourite to lead the line.
In defence, Gilardino faces a choice between Bonfanti and Calabresi, with Bonfanti slightly ahead in the pecking order. Former Juventus man Juan Cuadrado will miss out on the reunion, while in midfield Piccinini is expected to continue deputising for the unavailable Akinsanmiro. Up front, Tramoni and Moreo are competing for a place alongside Meister.
Probable Juventus Line-up (3-4-2-1)
Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Kostić; McKennie, Yildiz; David.
Probable Pisa Line-Up (3-5-2)
Semper; Canestrelli, Caracciolo, Bonfanti; Touré, Piccinini, Aebischer, Højlolt, Angori; Meister, Tramoni.
