Chiellini explains the coach’s absence as Juve fall in extra time to Galatasaray after dramatic comeback
It was a night of drama, pride — and heartbreak for Juventus. After overturning a three-goal deficit against Galatasaray, the Bianconeri ultimately fell in extra time, ending their Champions League campaign in the playoff round.
But as emotions ran high inside the Allianz Stadium, one figure was missing from the post-match interviews: Luciano Spalletti.
Exhausted After an Emotional Battle
Spalletti did not appear in front of the cameras following the elimination. According to Juventus executive Giorgio Chiellini, the reason was simple: exhaustion.
The coach, like the players, was physically and emotionally drained after a match that demanded everything. Juventus had clawed their way back from the 5–2 first-leg defeat in Turkey, forced extra time despite playing with ten men, and only conceded in the additional period.
Chiellini stepped in to represent the club in the immediate aftermath, describing a locker room that was “tested and disappointed, but proud.”
The Kelly Red Card Controversy
The turning point came late in the first half with a controversial red card for Kelly. Initially shown a second yellow card for a high challenge on Barış Yılmaz, the referee upgraded the decision to a straight red after a VAR review.
“For once, I’m glad I wasn’t Kelly,” Chiellini remarked bluntly post-match. “There’s not much to comment on about that red.”
Despite being down to ten men, Juventus rallied. Goals from Gatti and McKennie — both from set pieces — brought the tie level on aggregate. The stadium roared back to life.
But in extra time, Victor Osimhen struck for Galatasaray, followed by a late dagger from Yılmaz to seal Juve’s exit.
Pride Amid Disappointment
Chiellini emphasized the positives despite the elimination.
“We’re hurting, disappointed with the final result after such an effort, but also proud of what we showed,” he said. “That connection with the fans and the environment we created must be a starting point for the rest of the season.”
He also defended Spalletti’s tenure.
“Since Luciano arrived, we’ve really only gotten one and a half matches wrong — maybe add the first half against Napoli. The team is there. There’s regret, yes, and maybe we’re not very lucky with certain episodes right now.”
No Doubts About Spalletti’s Future
Speculation about Spalletti’s future was quickly dismissed.
“There’s never been any doubt about Juventus’ future with Luciano,” Chiellini stated. “We’ve had an intense calendar and no time to breathe. Now, unfortunately, we’ll have one game a week. That will allow us to sit down and formalize plans at the right time. His renewal has always been a priority, never a question.”
Spalletti may not have spoken publicly after the final whistle, but the message from the club was clear: the project continues — even after European heartbreak.
