Ahead of Sunday’s clash between Roma and Juventus, former Bianconeri star Zbigniew Boniek shared sharp insights on the Turin club’s turbulent season. “My Roma-Juve matches were unforgettable battles, full of respect and true friendships,” he reflected. “Today it’s different, but this game arrives at a special moment: Roma are flying high, while Juve are staggering. Seeing them like this has been a surprise.”
Juventus’ Identity Crisis
Boniek pinpointed a critical flaw in Juventus’ squad: “They have many very good players, but no true superstar. Kenan Yildiz has exceptional technique and moments of brilliance, but he’s too young to shoulder leadership. You can’t ask everything of him.” He also addressed Thiago Motta’s dismissal, arguing the coach wasn’t solely to blame: “Motta is an excellent manager. If Bologna is performing almost better without him, it shows the problem—or credit—isn’t just his.”
The Weight of Expectations
The pressure at Juventus, Boniek noted, is unparalleled: “No club like Juve weighs so heavily on players and coaches. Winning isn’t news; losing is. The team isn’t dominating, isn’t playing well—and it’s not just tactical issues. It’s a combination of factors.”
Platini’s Unfinished Chapter
Boniek didn’t hold back on Michel Platini’s tarnished legacy: “What they did to Michel makes no sense. It’s over now, but no one will give him back those 10 unjustly taken years. I’ve said from day one: Platini is honest. A court ruling confirms it.” He floated a poetic idea: “It would be beautiful to see him return as Juventus’ new Boniperti. Imagine the fans’ reaction in today’s less romantic football world.”
The Missing Star
In a wry parting shot, Boniek revisited a personal grievance: “I already had my star at Juventus Stadium—it’s at home. Then Andrea Agnelli told me they were removing it. I’ve offered €1,000 to anyone who can explain why, but no one’s come forward yet.”
