Juventus Returns with Renewed Ambition
Massimiliano Allegri’s team, alongside three other prominent Italian teams, kicked off their season with a notable performance, securing a 3-0 victory against Udinese. This unexpected and aggressive attacking display was a departure from the usual conservative approach associated with their coach.
Federico Chiesa, who swiftly gave his team the lead in Udine after only 108 seconds, praised their “modern style of football.” He also displayed signs that his injury concerns might be behind him.
Allegri, though more cautious about tactical changes, emphasized the need for Chiesa to play up front. He remarked, “He has to score 14-16 goals this season… he is wasted on the wing.”
Juve’s approach appeared revitalized, a stark contrast to their performance last season, even before they faced penalties and bans in the sporting courts, including a 10-point deduction and a one-season European football suspension.
In the previous season, Juve scored just 35 times from open play, often playing in uninspiring matches. Their exit from the Champions League and a significant loss to Napoli in January highlighted their limitations.
Chiesa expressed their ambition to return to the top of European club football, positioning Juventus as contenders for the league title in Italy.
Considering their primary rivals – AC Milan and reigning champions Napoli – are both undergoing transitional phases, Juventus seems hungry and capable, reminiscent of their form after they acquired Cristiano Ronaldo.
AC Milan will have their home fans cheering them on against Torino, riding the momentum of positive performances from their new acquisitions.
Inter Milan, led by Simone Inzaghi, faces promoted Cagliari on Monday night, exuding confidence. However, the intriguing fixture of the weekend is Fiorentina taking on Lecce, who surprisingly defeated Lazio in the previous week.
Fiorentina’s coach, Vincenzo Italiano, is likely to field the same lineup that secured a 4-1 win against Genoa on the opening day. Their impressive start has sparked discussions about their potential to be a dark horse for a top-four finish.
Meanwhile, there’s uncertainty surrounding Fiorentina, as they face the potential departure of key attacker Nicolas Gonzalez to Brentford for over 40 million euros, leaving fans questioning owner Rocco Commisso’s intentions for the club.
Player to Watch: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia After missing Napoli’s opening win against Frosinone due to injury, star winger Kvaratskhelia is set to return when Napoli welcomes Sassuolo for their home debut. Kvaratskhelia, alongside Victor Osimhen, formed a potent attacking duo that propelled Napoli to their first league title since 1990.
The 22-year-old contributed 14 goals and assists last season and is in the process of negotiating a contract extension with Napoli.
Key Stats Juve’s last 3-0 lead at halftime during their opening fixture was in a match against Venezia in 2001, a year they won the league.
The opening weekend witnessed an impressive tally of goals.
Upcoming Fixtures Saturday
Monza vs. Empoli, Frosinone vs. Atalanta, AC Milan vs. Torino, Verona vs. Roma
Sunday
Fiorentina vs. Lecce, Juventus vs. Bologna, Napoli vs. Sassuolo, Lazio vs. Genoa
Monday
Salernitana vs. Udinese, Cagliari vs. Inter Milan
