In a season marked by disappointing performances, Juventus finds itself in a precarious position that has caught the attention of the club’s highest echelons, including parent company Exor. The looming threat of missing out on next season’s Champions League has prompted John Elkann to call for an emergency summit with key Juventus executives, according to reports.
Corriere dello Sport report that the meeting, expected to take place imminently, will involve CEO Maurizio Scanavino, Sporting Director Cristiano Giuntoli, and possibly head coach Thiago Motta. The primary agenda is to assess the real possibility of Juventus failing to secure a top-four finish in Serie A and to discuss necessary countermeasures.
The worst-case scenario of missing out on the 2025-2026 Champions League would have severe financial implications. Without the revenue guaranteed by Europe’s premier competition, the club may be forced to forego expensive contract renewals, such as that of Weston McKennie, and abandon plans to make loan deals permanent for players like Conceição and Kalulu. Moreover, costly incoming transfers, including the potential acquisition of Kolo Muani, could be jeopardized.
Juventus’ current predicament is compounded by an already compromised economic situation, following their recent exclusion from European competitions by UEFA. The €200 million capital increase from a year ago has been effectively eroded, and ownership has made it clear they are not willing to make further extraordinary investments. Management has been instructed to achieve financial balance independently.
However, the industrial plan that was meant to ensure sustainability relied on three key pillars: player market revenues, progression to the Champions League round of 16, and consistent presence in the competition. With the second objective already missed and the third in serious jeopardy, the situation has become alarming.
The potential sporting failure could have consequences beyond the economic realm, potentially exposing Juventus to Financial Fair Play sanctions if another year ends in the red. This could create a vicious cycle that becomes increasingly difficult to break.
Fan discontent adds another layer of pressure. After years of success, the expectation of victory as the sole priority remains deeply ingrained in the Juventus environment. However, Italian football has changed, with Serie A now much more balanced and competitive, featuring at least six or seven teams vying for Champions League spots.
The Juventus renewal project, featuring a new coach and ambitious market moves, risks falling short of expectations. Many uncertainties surround Thiago Motta, and his relationship with the fanbase appears already strained. Historically, Juventus has not found great success with coaches prioritizing attractive football, and the risk of a technical failure is tangible.
