On the eve of Como–Juventus, former Bianconeri legend Marco Tardelli gave a candid interview to Tuttosport, discussing the current state of the club, its Italian identity, and coach Igor Tudor’s tactical challenges.
A Different Juventus
“There’s a lack of that family imprint that has always characterised Juventus,” Tardelli reflected. “It still exists, yes, but in a reduced way. Figures like Umberto Agnelli or the Lawyer (Gianni Agnelli) are irreplaceable. I remember when I entered Boniperti’s office for the first time: as soon as he saw me, he told me to take off my necklace and bracelets and to go get a haircut immediately. I obeyed without saying a word. It seemed more than normal for a club of that status.”
The Value of Italian Identity
“Absolutely yes, and it’s not rhetoric,” he continued when asked whether Juventus have lost touch with their Italian roots. “If the correct sense of belonging has faded, that’s part of the reason. Among the Bianconeri there are serious players, but since they weren’t born in Italy, they don’t know or haven’t experienced the club’s history firsthand. They wear the shirt professionally, but inevitably with less empathy compared to what players like Totti, Maldini, and Del Piero embodied for their clubs. Those who join Juventus — as is the case in other Italian teams — must truly understand its history. Yet that no longer happens.”
Tudor’s Juventus
When analysing Igor Tudor’s side, Tardelli was direct: “Simple — what’s missing is a world-class player in midfield, a technical leader with personality. Someone like Platini. Yildiz could become that player, but right now he’s not yet capable of guiding the team on his own.”
The Attack: Trust in Vlahovic
“I say Vlahovic without any doubt,” declared Tardelli. “He’s shown he’s the one with the most goals in his legs. But he needs service and support — otherwise, it’s impossible for him to make an impact. Dusan must feel the trust of his coach, his teammates, and the club environment. I hear people say the Serbian is a ‘moody’ player — but who isn’t? How can he perform at his best if he feels that those around him don’t believe in him?
“For me, Tudor has to make a clear decision about him: either make him the starter or not at all, though I think keeping him among the substitutes would be damaging for Juventus. They need someone like him — especially since no other forward seems capable of doing better.”
Tardelli then commented on new signing Jonathan David: “He’s come from France, where the style of football is completely different. I’ll repeat it clearly — for me, Vlahovic must play at least ten consecutive matches. Then we’ll see.”
The Bremer Absence
Finally, speaking about the defensive situation, Tardelli noted: “His absence will weigh heavily — Gleison Bremer is an important player. Let’s hope he recovers as quickly as possible. But I believe Juventus will need to return to the market in January.”
