Serie A action returns after the international break, and Saturday’s fixtures include a high-profile clash between Fiorentina and Juventus at the Stadio Artemio Franchi. Kick-off is scheduled for 17:00 GMT, with both sides eager to find consistency following recent managerial changes.
Paolo Vanoli has taken charge of Fiorentina, replacing Stefano Pioli, while Luciano Spalletti has succeeded Igor Tudor at Juventus. Both teams are still adapting to their new coaches’ tactical ideas, and this encounter promises to offer clues about their respective progress.
For Fiorentina, the match provides an opportunity to bounce back from a dreadful start to the season. Juventus, on the other hand, aim to build on the four points collected from Spalletti’s first two league games in charge as they look to regain momentum in the title race.
Vanoli faces a few selection dilemmas in defence, with Pongracic and Ranieri currently favourites over Comuzzo and Viti. Dodò and Fortini are expected to operate on the flanks, while former Juventus midfielder Nicolussi Caviglia should start in the holding role. Fagioli is pushing for a place ahead of Sohm in midfield, and the attack will likely feature Gudmundsson alongside Kean.
Spalletti appears set to stick with a three-man defence for now, postponing any major tactical experiments. Koopmeiners is expected to continue as part of the back line, while Cambiaso should feature on the right wing with Kostic on the left. Locatelli and Thuram remain key figures in central midfield, and McKennie could be deployed in a flexible role between midfield and attack. Vlahovic, who has been managing recent fitness issues, may only be fit enough for the bench.
Probable Fiorentina Line-up (4-2-3-1)
De Gea; Pongracic, Marì, Ranieri; Dodò, Mandragora, Nicolussi Caviglia, Sohm, Fortini; Gudmundsson, Kean
Probable Juventus Line-up (3-4-2-1)
Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Koopmeiners; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Thuram, Kostic; McKennie, Yildiz; Openda
