Juventus are gearing up for their first big clash of the season against Inter, and all eyes are on Loïs Openda. The Belgian striker, the last major signing for the Bianconeri, could make his debut from the start in the Derby d’Italia after the injury setback suffered by Francisco Conceicao.
Training Updates at Continassa
IlBianconero report that Igor Tudor led the latest session at Continassa with a squad still fragmented between returning internationals and players recovering from knocks. Conceicao is back early after suffering an injury with Portugal, while Fabio Miretti continued working separately from the group. Positive news, however, came from defender Juan Cabal, who trained with the team for the first time since his cruciate injury last November, and from goalkeeper Mattia Perin, who has overcome a hand problem. Both could soon be available again.
Openda’s First Session and Ambition
Openda, along with Koopmeiners and Yildiz, is among the first internationals to return. The Belgian featured for an hour in his national team’s big win over Liechtenstein before being left on the bench against Kazakhstan. Today marks his first full training session with Tudor and his new Juventus teammates, but his sights are already set on the Derby d’Italia.
With Conceicao sidelined, the door to a starting role opens for Openda. His energy and versatility make him an intriguing option, and Tudor is seriously considering placing him straight into the lineup for Sunday’s clash.
A Change in System?
Tudor, faced with Conceicao’s absence, could also opt to tweak his formation. Instead of his usual 3-4-2-1, the Croatian is considering variants such as a 3-5-2 or a 3-4-1-2. This tactical switch would allow Kenan Yildiz to play as a trequartista behind two strikers, giving Openda the chance to partner with Jonathan David up front.
Vlahovic’s Role
A potential attacking duo of Openda and David could mean yet another bench start for Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian forward has only just returned from international duty, where he found the net for his national team, but remains behind in Tudor’s pecking order for this crucial encounter.
Openda, meanwhile, is eager to impress. His speed, movement, and ability to adapt to a two-striker setup could make him the surprise card in what already promises to be a fiery Derby d’Italia.
