The Derby d’Italia is fast approaching, and Juventus face the possibility of taking on Inter without Francisco Conceição. IlBianconero report that the Portuguese winger returned early from national team duty after a muscle issue. Tests ruled out a long-term injury, but his presence on Sunday remains uncertain. For this reason, Igor Tudor is preparing backup plans to reshape his attack.
Openda Candidate for a Key Role
The report suggests that Loïs Openda could be in line for his first start in a Juventus shirt. The Belgian forward, normally a striker, may be redeployed behind Jonathan David alongside Kenan Yildiz. It would be a new role for him, but his pace and movement offer Tudor a different attacking option. Openda’s physical condition is much better compared to Edon Zhegrova, who has only just resumed full training after nine months out.
Koopmeiners Pushing for His Chance
Another strong alternative is Teun Koopmeiners, still searching for his first start of the season. The Dutchman has come on twice as a substitute for Manuel Locatelli, playing as a holding midfielder during pre-season and showing encouraging signs. However, his versatility remains valuable, as Tudor has also used him in the attacking midfield role. Starting alongside Yildiz could open the door to more consistent opportunities and a bigger role moving forward.
Zhegrova and Miretti as Second-Half Options
Zhegrova and Fabio Miretti are seen more as solutions off the bench at this stage. Miretti has been training separately and is not expected to start, though he could feature in the second half, depending on how he progresses this week. Zhegrova, meanwhile, has not played since December due to a pubalgia problem and subsequent surgery. While unlikely to start, his creativity could become an important weapon later in the game.
McKennie as a Wildcard
Weston McKennie is another flexible option for Tudor. The American is being considered both as a potential attacking midfielder and as cover for the left flank, where Andrea Cambiaso remains unavailable and Filip Kostić is not guaranteed a starting role.
Tactical Alternatives
Tudor is also weighing up a new system that could feature Yildiz as the lone number 10 behind David and Dušan Vlahović, creating a more direct two-striker set-up. Another variation could see David paired with Openda in attack.
