One day before the Allianz Stadium hosts a fiery Derby d’Italia between Juventus and Inter, Igor Tudor is facing decisive choices regarding his attacking formation. IlBianconeron report that with injuries clouding some options, the Croatian coach is working to finalise his frontline.
Conceição Struggling to Recover
Francisco Conceição remains the biggest doubt for Juventus. After returning from international duty with Portugal, the winger has been managing a muscular problem and has trained separately from the squad at Continassa. His recovery for the derby looks unlikely, and he is even a question mark for Juve’s Champions League opener against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.
Another absence already confirmed is that of Edon Zhegrova. The Kosovan winger has admitted he is still regaining full fitness after his long injury lay-off and will not be included in the squad.
Yildiz and David Are the Certainties
Two names, however, are guaranteed their place in the starting XI: Kenan Yildiz and Jonathan David. The Turkish talent, wearing the No.10, will operate in his usual role between the lines, while the Canadian will once again lead the line as the central striker.
Tudor continues to show faith in David, who scored against Parma earlier this season before struggling away to Genoa. On international duty, though, the forward rediscovered his finishing touch with a goal against Romania, reinforcing his status as a key weapon for Juventus in this high-profile clash.
Koopmeiners Advanced Role
If Conceição is ruled out, Tudor is likely to call on Teun Koopmeiners to provide extra balance. The Dutchman, generally deployed in midfield in this early part of the season, is ready to step forward into an attacking midfield role alongside Yildiz. His tactical awareness and ability to operate in both phases make him an asset for this adjusted set-up, ensuring Juve do not overload the attack while maintaining defensive shape.
Vlahovic and Openda Waiting in Reserve
For now, the double-striker solution has been shelved. Both Dusan Vlahovic and summer arrival Lois Openda are expected to start on the bench against Inter, with Tudor sticking to the principles of his 3-4-2-1 system. The Serbian and the Belgian could, however, become decisive options from the bench, providing fresh firepower and variety if the match demands it.
All signs point towards a Juventus attack built around Yildiz and David, with Koopmeiners offering balance and Conceição’s chances fading fast. For Tudor, the Derby d’Italia could be the test that defines whether his attacking structure is ready for the season’s toughest challenges.
