Juventus welcome Como to the Allianz Stadium for what promises to be a crucial Serie A clash in the race for European qualification. With only four points separating the sides, both Luciano Spalletti and Cesc Fàbregas will be eager to secure a statement result.
Juventus under pressure to respond
It’s been a turbulent week for Juventus. A 5–2 defeat to Galatasaray in the Champions League extended their winless run to four matches and raised concerns about the team’s confidence and defensive stability. This encounter with Como now carries extra weight — not just for the table, but for restoring belief ahead of next week’s European return fixture.
Spalletti’s selection dilemmas
Spalletti faces significant defensive issues. Bremer, Holm and the suspended Kalulu are all unavailable, forcing the Juventus coach to reshuffle his back line. A switch to a three-man defence is on the cards, with Koopmeiners likely to fill in on the left side.
In midfield, options are limited. Thuram and Locatelli are expected to feature once again, while Yildiz and Conceição could operate behind the striker. Jonathan David is tipped to return up front, even if still short of full fitness.
Fàbregas faces key absence
Como, meanwhile, travel to Turin without suspended playmaker Nico Paz, whose absence leaves a notable creative gap in midfield. Baturina is set to step in behind striker Douvikas, while Vojvoda and J. Rodriguez are expected to start on the wings.
At the back, Kempf and Diego Carlos are in contention for a starting spot alongside Ramon and Smolcic.
Probable Juventus Line-up (3-4-2-1)
Di Gregorio; Gatti, Kelly, Koopmeiners; McKennie, Thuram, Locatelli, Cambiaso; Conceição, Yildiz; David.
Probable Como Line-Up (4-2-3-1)
Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Kempf, Valle; Da Cunha, Perrone; Vojvoda, Baturina, J. Rodriguez; Douvikas.
