Juventus are navigating a delicate phase of its season, marked by a clear rebuilding process under new coach Igor Tudor. After a promising home victory against Genoa, the Bianconeri were held to a 1-1 draw against Roma. While the result didn’t harm their quest for Champions League qualification, with Bologna just one point ahead in fourth place, there’s no room for complacency as Juventus fights to secure a vital top-four finish.
Encouraging Signs Under Tudor
Since taking over from Thiago Motta, Tudor has instilled a more dynamic and aggressive playing style. His Juventus has shown improvements in vertical play, intensity, and defensive pressing. However, despite these positive changes, the team’s offensive output remains lackluster.
In his first two matches at the helm, Tudor made a bold decision by starting Dusan Vlahovic for 90 minutes against Genoa while benching Randal Kolo Muani. The Serbian striker failed to score, leaving Kenan Yildiz to secure the win with a moment of brilliance. In the subsequent match against Roma, Vlahovic again started but struggled to make an impact, while Kolo Muani came off the bench without contributing significantly.
A Goal Drought for Key Strikers
The numbers highlight Juventus’ attacking woes. Vlahovic hasn’t scored since February 23, when he netted the winner against Cagliari. Meanwhile, Kolo Muani—who began his Serie A stint with five goals in three matches—hasn’t found the back of the net since February 7. As Juventus pushes for Champions League qualification, Tudor is searching for solutions to reignite his forwards’ form.
Tudor’s Tactical Experiment
With time running out in the season, Tudor is considering a tactical shift to maximize his attacking options. Reports suggest he may deploy both Vlahovic and Kolo Muani together in an attacking-heavy lineup for their upcoming clash against Lecce. This approach could see Yildiz and Kolo Muani operating behind Vlahovic as the central striker, supported by Nico Gonzalez on the flank in a four-man midfield.
This bold strategy aims to increase Juventus’ offensive efficiency and capitalize on scoring opportunities—crucial as they chase fourth place in Serie A.
Market Implications
Juventus’ performance in these final matches will also shape their summer transfer strategy. Kolo Muani’s future is uncertain, as he joined on a short-term loan from Paris Saint-Germain in January. Meanwhile, Vlahovic’s situation remains complex. With his contract expiring in 2026 and an annual salary of €12 million, Juventus may consider selling him if they fail to find a sustainable financial solution.
Tudor has placed significant trust in Vlahovic, signaling his desire to build around the Serbian striker. However, if both forwards can rediscover their scoring touch and help secure Champions League qualification, it could influence Juventus’ decision-making and provide much-needed financial stability heading into the summer transfer window.