On the eve of the Allianz Stadium showdown, the Juventus coach backs Conte’s comments, downplays the transfer market, and calls for consistency in a crucial phase of the season
The new year begins with a test of maturity for Juventus. Speaking ahead of the home match against Lecce, head coach Luciano Spalletti made it clear that nothing can be taken for granted in a Serie A season that remains tight at the top.
“It will be a difficult challenge,” Spalletti said, referencing Lecce manager Eusebio Di Francesco. “I know how he thinks and what he demands from his teams. Lecce will make us suffer.” For Juventus, maintaining momentum is essential to staying in the upper tier of the table — a position that could open up unexpected title scenarios after what has been a relatively slow-paced campaign.
“Conte Is Right”
Spalletti was also asked about recent comments from Antonio Conte, who suggested that clubs like Juventus, Inter, and Milan operate on a different structural level compared to the rest of Serie A, including Napoli.
“Conte is right,” Spalletti replied with a mix of conviction and irony. “We are not second to anyone in terms of technical quality. When I arrived at the Continassa, I even found the wall for free kicks that moves — in Naples it was fixed.” A lighthearted remark, but one that underlined Juventus’ organizational and technical depth.
No Urgency on the Transfer Market
On the January transfer window, Spalletti struck a calm and pragmatic tone. “I don’t need anything,” he said. “I came to Juventus fully aware of the situation. I won’t be the one to open discussions about the market.” Any potential moves, he added, would be handled by sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli’s successor, Ottolini, whom Spalletti described as “a top professional.”
Squad Updates and Looking Ahead
From a tactical standpoint, Spalletti confirmed that Francisco Conceição is fit to start, while Zhegrova is also available and Cabal will be named on the bench. Up front, rotation remains key: “David or Openda? First one, then the other. Playing as a striker is the most demanding role — you press, you track back, you sacrifice.”
Finally, when asked about his future, Spalletti kept the door open without committing. “I’ve found top-level professionals here, and we share the same objectives — staying in the Champions League. At the end of the season, we’ll evaluate everything. If things are satisfactory, then maybe we can talk about something more.”
For now, the focus remains firmly on Lecce — and on proving, once again, that Juventus belong at the very top.
