As Juventus prepare to host Genoa at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday evening, all eyes will be on new coach Igor Tudor as he attempts to breathe life into the Bianconeri’s faltering season. The clash marks the beginning of a crucial period for Juventus, who find themselves in unfamiliar territory, battling for a top-four finish rather than challenging for the Scudetto.
Tudor Takes the Helm
The appointment of Igor Tudor as interim head coach following Thiago Motta’s dismissal has injected a sense of anticipation and hope among the Juventus faithful. Tudor, a former Juventus player with two Scudetti to his name, brings a wealth of Serie A experience, having previously managed Hellas Verona and Lazio.
The Croatian tactician faces the daunting task of reviving a team that has endured a tumultuous period, including embarrassing exits from the Champions League and Coppa Italia. Despite Motta’s relatively successful league record, a string of draws and recent heavy defeats proved too much for the Juventus board to bear.
Tactical Shake-up Expected
Tudor’s arrival is likely to herald a tactical shift, with early indications suggesting a move towards a 3-4-2-1 or 3-5-2 formation. The new coach has already made his mark by confirming Manuel Locatelli as team captain and speaking positively about striker Dusan Vlahovic, who had fallen out of favour under Motta.
The partnership between Vlahovic and recent signing Randal Kolo Muani will be crucial to Juventus’ attacking prowess. However, Kolo Muani’s goal drought since his explosive start at the club may prompt Tudor to consider alternative options in attack.
Injury Concerns and Selection Dilemmas
Juventus continue to grapple with injury issues, as Bremer, Juan Cabal, and Arkadiusz Milik remain sidelined. The fitness of Andrea Cambiaso and Douglas Luiz is also in question, potentially limiting Tudor’s options in midfield and defense.
Genoa’s Quiet Revolution
While Juventus have been making headlines for all the wrong reasons, Genoa have been quietly climbing the table under the guidance of former Juventus midfielder Patrick Vieira. The Grifone currently sit comfortably in 12th place, free from relegation worries and harboring outside hopes of a top-half finish.
Genoa’s recent form has been impressive, with just one defeat in their last six matches. However, their away record in 2025 leaves much to be desired, having failed to secure a victory on the road since late December.
Key Battle: Miretti Returns to Turin
One of the most intriguing subplots of the match will be the return of Fabio Miretti to the Allianz Stadium. The Juventus loanee has flourished at Genoa, already surpassing his goal and assist tallies from his time in Turin. His performance against his parent club could prove pivotal in determining the outcome of the match.
Historical Edge for Juventus
History favours the home side, with Juventus unbeaten against Genoa in Turin for an astonishing 34 years. This record, combined with Genoa’s poor away form, suggests an uphill battle for the visitors.
Team News
Juventus continue to grapple with injury issues, as Bremer, Juan Cabal, and Arkadiusz Milik remain sidelined. The fitness of Andrea Cambiaso and Douglas Luiz is also in question, potentially limiting Tudor’s options in midfield and defence.
On a positive note, Dusan Vlahovic, Nico Gonzalez, and Federico Gatti returned to training early following their international duties, eager to work under Tudor and prepare for the Genoa match.
Meanwhile, Genoa face their own challenges with Aaron Martin suspended and several key players injured, including Mattia Bani, Junior Messias, Honest Ahanor, Mario Balotelli, and Maxwel Cornet. In Martin’s absence, Johan Vasquez or Alan Matturro could fill in on the left flank.
Expected XI’s
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Gatti, Veiga; Weah, Locatelli, Thuram, Savona; Koopmeiners, Yildiz; Vlahovic
Genoa: Leali; Sabelli, De Winter, Vasquez, Matturro; Badelj, Frendrup; Zanoli, Malinovskyi, Miretti; Pinamonti
Prediction
The arrival of Tudor and the subsequent shake-up in the Juventus camp should provide the spark needed to overcome a resilient Genoa side. While the visitors have proven tough to beat in recent months, their struggles away from home may prove their undoing against a Juventus team desperate to turn their season around.
Prediction: Juventus 2-1 Genoa
