IlBianconero report how Alberto Costa delivered a standout performance in Juventus’ emphatic 5-0 victory over Al-Ain in their opening match of the Club World Cup. Wearing number 2, Costa’s display was not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the renewed faith shown in him by coach Igor Tudor.
A New Era Under Tudor
Arriving in Turin last January from Vitoria Guimarães, Costa’s transfer was initially met with scepticism. Under Thiago Motta, he saw little playing time, leaving many to wonder about his future at the club. However, the arrival of Igor Tudor marked a turning point. Tudor, who has closely observed Costa in training, was among the first to recognize the player’s untapped potential.
Given the opportunity to start in a high-stakes match, Costa did not disappoint. He set the tone early, providing a pinpoint assist to Randal Kolo Muani just 11 minutes in, helping Juventus take control of the game. Only ten minutes later, he delivered another assist, this time for Francisco Conceicao. Costa’s creativity and composure were instrumental in Juventus’ dominant performance, and his contributions did not go unnoticed.
The Details Behind the Transfer
Costa’s move to Juventus was orchestrated by sporting director Giuntoli, who managed to outmaneuver Sporting Lisbon and convince the young talent to leave Portugal for the first time. The deal was structured with an upfront payment of €12.5 million to Vitoria Guimarães, plus €2.5 million in potential bonuses and a 5% sell-on clause. The fixed fee will be paid over four or five years, and Costa signed a contract running until June 30, 2029, with a net annual salary of around €500,000.
With his recent performance, Costa now appears poised to become a key asset for Tudor’s Juventus, potentially filling a gap that had previously gone unaddressed.
Match Statistics: Al-Ain vs Juventus
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Minutes played: 90
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Goals: 0
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Assists: 2
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Touches: 73
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Pass accuracy: 80%
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Key passes: 4
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Crosses (successful): 2 (1)
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Big chances created: 1
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Dribbles attempted (successful): 3 (1)
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Fouls committed: 4
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Possessions lost: 15
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Clearances: 1
