As Juventus prepare for their crucial match against Atalanta, manager Thiago Motta faces some key decisions regarding his lineup. The Bianconeri returned to training following a day of rest, with mixed news on the injury front.
Pierre Kalulu, who has been sidelined for over a month due to a thigh injury, has made a successful return to action. The French defender came off the bench in the recent match against Verona and is now pushing for a starting position against Atalanta. Gazzetta dello Sport report that Motta could opt to rest either Federico Gatti, who has played the most minutes (3,103) this season, or Lloyd Kelly. Alternatively, Kalulu’s versatility could see him deployed as a full-back.
However, the status of Renato Veiga remains uncertain. The Portuguese defender, who arrived from Chelsea in January, continues to train separately from the main group. Veiga has been recovering from a right leg tendon injury sustained during the Champions League playoff return leg against PSV. The next two days will be crucial in determining whether he can be included in the squad for Sunday’s match.
The upcoming fixture against Atalanta is of significant importance for Juventus. Currently sitting in fifth place with 49 points, a win could see them leapfrog their opponents and move into the coveted third spot in Serie A. With only 11 matches remaining in the season, every point is crucial as Juventus aims to secure a Champions League qualification spot and potentially challenge for the Scudetto.
