Fabio Capello has shared his thoughts ahead of the crucial clash between Juventus and Roma at the Allianz Stadium, offering insight into the work of Luciano Spalletti and the potential implications for the title race. Few know both benches as well as the former manager, who once led each club to success.
“The side with more at stake? Juventus — at least in terms of the league table,” Capello explained to La Gazzetta dello Sport. “But it’s also a good test for Roma. Winning at the Allianz Stadium would give Gasperini’s team even more momentum after that fine result against Fabregas’ Como — and the score on Monday could have been even bigger.”
“There Are Two Versions of Spalletti”
Capello was particularly impressed by Juventus’ display in Bologna last weekend, describing it as their best performance of the season so far. “The Juventus we saw in Bologna was the best version this year: aggressive, confident, intense, and smart in how they occupied the pitch,” he said. “Apart from replacing the suspended Koopmeiners, I wouldn’t change a thing. Confidence and conviction are essential. After many experiments, Spalletti finally saw the light at Dall’Ara — now he has the chance to confirm it against a strong opponent like Roma. The real Luciano is coming back.”
According to Capello, the Juventus manager is rediscovering the balance that defined his best years. “In recent times, we’ve seen two Spallettis: the one who soared in space at Napoli, and the more hesitant version we saw as Italy’s head coach, especially during the European Championship,” he observed. “He joined Juventus midseason and had to treat a few wounds at first, but in Bologna I saw a team that reflected his ideas and personality. Until last weekend, I would have rated him a six-minus for their playing style, saved only by results. At Dall’Ara, though, he earned a solid seven.”
Capello also couldn’t resist commenting on Spalletti’s charisma — both on and off the pitch. “Luciano is a philosopher when he talks, and sometimes I struggle to follow him — he’s too verbose! I prefer concise people… But on the pitch, I like his ideas.”
“Why Can’t Juventus Rejoin the Scudetto Race?”
With Juve’s form improving and the table still wide open, Capello believes the Bianconeri have a genuine opportunity to climb back into contention. “For now, it looks like a league without a clear leader,” he said. “If, after Bologna, Juventus also beat Roma… why not aim higher and think about re-entering the title race? It’s possible because Juventus are training while most of their rivals are travelling and playing in the Super Cup in Saudi Arabia — and that’s not a minor advantage.”
