Juventus enter the final stretch of the Serie A season with one clear objective: securing a Champions League place by finishing in the top four. With just three matches remaining and the points gap razor-thin between Juventus, Roma, Lazio, and Bologna, every decision on player fitness and availability is crucial as the team prepares for a pivotal clash against Lazio.
Managing Vlahovic and Koopmeiners
Both Dusan Vlahovic and Teun Koopmeiners have been on individualized recovery programs at Continassa as they battle to return from injury. Vlahovic, who suffered a calf issue during the loss to Parma, has missed the last two matches but is edging closer to a comeback. While a starting role against Lazio is unlikely, he is expected to be included in the squad and could feature from the bench, providing Igor Tudor with a much-needed attacking option.
Koopmeiners, on the other hand, remains a doubt. The Dutch midfielder has not featured in Juventus’ last three games due to a tendon inflammation and continues to train separately. Current indications are that he will not be available for the Lazio match and may only return for the final fixtures of the season.
Squad Situation Ahead of Lazio
Juventus will also be without Kenan Yildiz, who is serving the final game of a two-match suspension, and several long-term absentees including Arkadiusz Milik, Juan Cabal, Gleison Bremer, and Lloyd Kelly. Andrea Cambiaso is another recent casualty after picking up a minor injury against Bologna, while Federico Gatti is close to a return but still doubtful for the Lazio encounter.
A Decisive Moment
With Juventus, Roma, and Lazio all tied on 63 points and Bologna just one point behind, the race for Champions League qualification is at its most intense. The return of Vlahovic, even in a limited capacity, could provide a vital boost as Juventus look to secure a crucial result at the Stadio Olimpico. Meanwhile, the absence of Koopmeiners will be felt in midfield, leaving Tudor to find solutions as the season reaches its climax.
