With a new manager, a revamped squad, and a summer transfer window that's far from closed, Juventus begin their Serie A campaign against newly-promoted Como. The first match under Thiago Motta's guidance will see a Juventus side still in flux, with key signings yet to be finalised and squad depth a concern.
Last season's struggles saw a Juventus side lacking in new arrivals and direction, but this summer has brought a wave of change. Motta's arrival marks a fresh start, with a new playing style and a host of new faces. However, the club's transfer activity has been far from smooth, with several key targets still unsigned. This leaves Juventus facing the season opener with a less-than-ideal squad, lacking the depth needed for a successful campaign.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the final make-up of the squad, Monday night's clash against Como offers a first glimpse into Motta's vision for the club. The match will provide an opportunity to see how the new manager intends to utilise the current squad, with the caveat that several key players are still missing.
Juventus and Como have only met twice previously in Serie A, the last meeting in February 2003 ending in a 3-1 win for the Turin side. The match featured goals from Pavel Nedved, Marco Di Vaio, and Mauro Camoranesi.
While Juventus are facing the season opener with a thin squad, the first match of the season has shown that even top clubs can be vulnerable against lower-table opposition. Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Napoli all dropped points in their opening matches.
Therefore, despite their ongoing transfer issues, Juventus cannot afford to underestimate Como. They must approach the match with the same focus and respect they have shown in the past.
Team News
The Juventus squad is still in flux, with several key players missing for the season opener:
Fabio Miretti is out injured with a broken foot.
Vasilije AdžiÄ is unavailable due to a hamstring injury.
Arek Milik continues to recover from a knee injury sustained in June.
Weston McKennie, who was expected to leave the club, is back in training and considered a "useful player" by Motta.
Federico Chiesa is also not in the squad for the Como match.
Motta has named a squad of 19 players for the match, with a thin bench due to the ongoing transfer activity. He has emphasised that the starting line-up will be chosen "on merit", with every player having to earn their place on the pitch.
Juventus Player to Watch
With so many new arrivals, there are many players to keep an eye on, but one stands out. Kenan Yildiz, handed the coveted No. 10 jersey, is set for a more prominent role this season.
Yildiz faces the challenge of filling the creative void left by several absent players. With limited options on the opposite wing, the young midfielder will be expected to shoulder a significant burden, particularly in the absence of Teun Koopmeiners, Federico Chiesa, and Nico Gonzalez.
His performance against Como will be a key indicator of his potential for the season ahead.
Match Information
Date: Monday, 19th August 2024
Time: 8:45 p.m. CET (7:45 p.m. UK time)
Venue: Allianz Stadium, Turin, Italy
How to Watch
Television: No over-the-air channels available in the UK.
Streaming: DAZN Italy, Sky Go Italia (Italy)
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The start of the new season presents a unique opportunity for Juventus to establish a fresh identity under Motta. The Como match offers an early glimpse into the club's ambitions, despite the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the final squad composition.