Juventus, we have a problem. To paraphrase Apollo 13, the Bianconeri`s journey in the Club World Cup, especially after the disappointing defeat against Manchester City, is highlighting the main issue that needs solving for the Juventus management: the defense urgently needs significant reinforcement. While forwards like Jonathan David or the dream of a complete midfielder like Ederson would undoubtedly be important elements to elevate Tudor`s squad, Juventus` backline, both in terms of numbers and the characteristics of the currently available players, appears to be the area most in need of urgent action.
Juventus` Defensive Concerns from the Club World Cup
It`s worth remembering that Gleison Bremer, who was the cornerstone of the `iron defense` in Thiago Motta`s initial Juventus setup, will be available again for the start of next season. He returned to the bench for the first time yesterday after knee surgery last October. However, what will be the Brazilian`s performance level after such a long layoff? The same question applies to Cabal, also recovering from surgery and a lengthy absence.
Currently, Tudor is left with only five recognized central defenders for his 3-4-2-1 formation (Gatti, who is close to contract renewal, Kalulu, Kelly, and Savona, plus Rugani, who hasn`t played a minute since returning from his loan spell at Ajax), with the possibility of adapting others (Alberto Costa, Cambiaso, or, less likely, Locatelli) in case of emergency. But it`s not just a matter of numbers: in terms of characteristics, none of these five players seem to offer great reliability in the aggressive, high-pressing game (to prevent opponents from having ample space on the counter) that Tudor is trying to implement.
Juventus Transfer Market: Defensive Targets
It`s no secret that the Croatian coach would like to work again with Leonardo Balerdi, the Argentine defender from Marseille who was his key player during his year at the Velodrome. However, the French club considers him a fundamental part of De Zerbi`s team. The alternative identified is the Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd from West Ham, who spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad. Regarding other potential targets, Milan seems to be ahead for Leoni, Tomori`s name could resurface, and former Sampdoria and Spezia player Chabot, now at Stuttgart, is rising on the list.
Defensive Emergency for Real Madrid Match
Meanwhile, Juventus will face Real Madrid in the Club World Cup round of 16 on Tuesday night in Miami with limited defensive options. Savona is practically out after the bad ankle sprain sustained against City. Thus, Tudor will be forced to either reinstate Gatti, who lacks match fitness for a full 90 minutes, or risk playing Rugani. Juventus, we have a problem. For today and for tomorrow.
