In just a handful of days, Luciano Spalletti has begun to reshape Juventus in his image. The new manager’s early sketches have already revealed hints of bold colour — flashes of intensity and invention that the Allianz Stadium crowd had not witnessed for some time. La Gazzetta dello Sport outline how, against Sporting, despite a 1-1 draw, supporters were treated to football painted with verticality, speed of thought, pressing, and a rekindled sense of courage and imagination. The canvas is still incomplete, but the brushstrokes suggest a transformation is underway.
Tactical Evolution
Behind Spalletti’s immediate impact lies a clear tactical design. Deprived of key defenders such as Gleison Bremer, Juan Cabal and Lloyd Kelly, the coach was forced to innovate. Pierre Kalulu returned to his natural place in the back three after several outings as a wing-back, offering both defensive balance and attacking threat from deep.
The biggest surprise, however, came with Teun Koopmeiners. The Dutchman, a €51 million signing often criticised for underwhelming displays, was repositioned as the left-sided centre-back — a role he had not occupied since his days at AZ Alkmaar. From there, he combined composure in defence with progressive build-up play, initiating Juventus’s equaliser against Sporting through a precise vertical pass. Once a mystery figure, Koopmeiners suddenly looks reborn, anchoring the new Juventus with confidence and clarity.
Rediscovered Players
Spalletti’s Juventus revival is not only tactical but psychological. Among the players enjoying fresh opportunities, Weston McKennie stands out. The American has become indispensable, utilised both on the flank and centrally. His intelligence in occupying spaces, energy in transitions, and adaptability make him the quintessential team player Spalletti values.
Another comeback story belongs to Filip Kostic. Once marginalised, the winger now finds himself reborn under Spalletti’s guidance. Starting in Cremona and scoring the first goal of the new era, Kostic has quickly reaffirmed his place as a reliable and experienced presence on the left wing.
Meanwhile, Spalletti’s use of substitutions against Sporting hinted at his trust in youth and depth. Fabio Miretti and Vasilije Adzic were introduced as fresh midfield options, while Edon Zhegrova brought creativity and flair from the bench. Each of them seems destined to play a part in shaping the evolving identity of this Juventus side.
The Beginning of a New Cycle
Only days into his tenure, Spalletti has already shifted the tone and rhythm of Juventus’s football. His blend of tactical audacity, trust in versatile players, and insistence on personality and leadership is giving the team new life. The results may still need to come, but the sense of direction — and excitement — has clearly returned to Turin.
