Juventus approach their clash with Pafos fully aware that improvement is not just desirable—it’s essential, and it must begin immediately. The Bianconeri are still reeling from their poor defeat to Napoli, a blow that Luciano Spalletti dissected with honesty in his post-match comments. The coach took full responsibility for the performance but insisted that the team must use that setback as a springboard for change. Time is running short, and Juventus cannot afford more slip-ups if they are to secure their Champions League path. Currently sitting on six points and just within the playoff zone in 23rd place, every match now carries crucial weight.
IlBianconero report that for the trip to Pafos, Spalletti is preparing a few changes, the most notable being the return of Edon Zhegrova to the starting line-up—his first start of the season and his first in an official fixture for several months. But another potentially significant adjustment could come in midfield, where Fabio Miretti is challenging Khephren Thuram for a starting spot.
Spalletti’s Thoughts on Thuram
Speaking on the eve of the match, Spalletti made his admiration for Thuram clear, while also highlighting areas for growth.
“From my point of view, he’s strong and played a good game on Sunday. He brings physicality, which we need. He must, however, improve his off-the-ball movement because it can create key attacking spaces. He’s a top professional. I like Thuram a lot, and while games always have highs and lows, I think he played well in Naples,” said the Juventus coach.
Miretti or Thuram?
Spalletti’s trust in Thuram is evident, yet his comments also suggest the Frenchman’s form has dipped since his promising start to the season. The former Nice midfielder has struggled in recent outings, especially with decision-making in the final third, where too many simple passes went astray.
Miretti, meanwhile, has been working his way back into the side and catching the manager’s eye with solid performances. Handed his first start in Bodo, the 2003-born midfielder responded with an assist for McKennie and was denied a goal only by the VAR. Since then, he has built on that momentum, combining energy with technical clarity in midfield.
Against Pafos, Miretti looks set to be given another opportunity to prove he can offer a real alternative in the heart of Spalletti’s system, independent of Thuram’s form. For the young Italian, tonight could represent both a personal and tactical test—a chance to show he can be the spark Juventus need to rediscover their rhythm.
