Luciano Spalletti’s press conferences rarely lack passion, and after Juventus’ 2–1 win over Roma in Turin, the manager once again delivered a colourful and candid reflection. Goals from Conceição and Openda secured victory for the Bianconeri, but it was Spalletti’s frank admission about his mindset and discomfort with defensive football that captured attention as much as the result itself.
“The Roma side always plays the same way, with a very high rhythm,” Spalletti began. “They force you to keep a low block, but I’m never comfortable when the team sits deep. Conceição and Yildiz both worked hard defensively, they filled the match with intensity and balance. Roma are so used to this pace, this frequency of elite matches. We still have steps to take, but every time we won the ball, we looked capable of scoring a third goal. Eventually, they resolved a few situations and we missed out on a big opportunity by small margins. In the second half, we did very well — many things worked, almost everything. In the first half, we were a little late on their wide players, but we were up against one of the strongest teams in the league; everyone recognises Roma’s quality.”
Fear, Enjoyment, and “Total War”
When asked about his feelings after the match, Spalletti revealed a surprisingly personal concern. “I’m afraid that I’ve never really experienced enjoyment,” he admitted. “Maybe there’s something wrong with me. My joy comes from seeing the players in the dressing room hugging each other and smiling. I’m happy when I see them having fun.”
He then described the mentality he wants from his team. “There are things we absolutely must improve, and they’re within our reach. We have to be part of the change during a match — we must switch into total war mode. It’s eleven against eleven. In the first half, we suffered too much. We’re always late in understanding what’s around us — in reading the map of the game. Roma were winning all the second balls, so it’s essential that we win these matches against teams who teach you what it takes to recognise those details at this level.”
The Juventus coach praised his squad’s character but warned that talent alone wasn’t enough: “We have attentive, determined players who want to carve out a piece of history within these walls. They’re working to make people talk about them, but growth is still needed. There are things that are obvious, things we need to address with great humility. We have everything here — great pitches, facilities, dressing rooms — now we have to become a beautiful team too.”
On Intensity and Style of Play
Spalletti was then asked if Juventus could sustain their energetic approach over time. “I don’t know if we can keep up these 100-metre runs continuously,” he said with a smile. “Some players can — then they end up with their hands on their hips. The difference between reaction and anticipation is everything. If you just react, you’re always late. It’s not about reacting; it’s about anticipating what will happen, otherwise it’s too late.”
He singled out individual efforts with admiration and humour: “Wesley’s bursts? That’s an engine with serious horsepower. McKennie too. I’m not sure others can keep that up for ninety minutes. These are things we must refine, but we have everything to gain that extra spark.”
Then came his remark of the night — brutally honest and entirely Spalletti. “The defenders need to contribute more — what’s the fun in just taking the ball away from the opponent?” he said. “Mancini pushes into the box, combines with team-mates, others go up and down the flank. In modern football, you can’t just sit and wait for the referee’s whistle, or you’ll pay for it. I suffer when my team sits back in defence because that’s when I feel bad — and it drives me mad.”
