The coach aims to relaunch the versatile American midfielder and insists on the French defender to dominate the flanks against Inter.
Interim coach Igor Tudor, now permanently at the helm, aims to become the “Mr. Derby d`Italia.” Tudor doesn`t need to delve into Juventus`s history to prepare for the September 13 match against Inter. The Croatian understands the intensity of this Italian classic and knows how to win it, boasting a positive record as a Juventus player (5 wins in 11 matches, with only one defeat). However, Saturday`s game will be his first as a coach in this highly anticipated clash. Tudor approaches this crucial fixture, deeply felt by fans, much like a video game: extensive theoretical preparation, with less practical work until mid-week when he reunites with the 13 international players returning from European duties. Despite limited time and few players available at Continassa, the coach has solid certainties and is developing new tactical ideas to defeat Inter and maintain their perfect start to the season.
Countering Dumfries
Igor Tudor is not typically one for experiments, yet he is known for tactical surprises; the most recent being João Mário`s first start at Marassi, surprisingly on the left flank. The coach praised the former Porto player`s runs and offensive contributions, but he might opt for a change. Should Andrea Cambiaso still be suspended, as in Genoa, the dangerous Inter winger Denzel Dumfries, one of the league`s most effective, will be a threat on the right flank. The Dutchman operates almost as an additional forward, and Juventus is preparing countermeasures at Continassa. A return to the starting XI for Weston McKennie is more than just a temptation. Tudor is considering a rotation: starting with a wide player capable of both attacking and defending (McKennie or Kostić), and introducing fresh, more offensive forces later in the game (João Mário). The Serbian would be the more straightforward choice, being left-footed and accustomed to covering the entire flank. However, Tudor`s “surprise move” could be McKennie, who has played only limited minutes between Parma and Genoa as an attacking midfielder. The American, a versatile player, could be an effective “speed camera” to monitor Dumfries. In recent days, Tudor has trained with McKennie, while Kostić was on international duty. The decision on who will counter Dumfries will be made at the last minute, balancing tactical considerations with physical condition. McKennie appears to be favored, also because Kostić will need to be assessed upon his return from Serbia. The plan is clear: increased defensive coverage on the flank to contain Dumfries and, simultaneously, to unleash Kenan Yildiz`s creativity.
Kalulu`s Triple Role
The same principle applies, and perhaps even more so, to the right flank. If Juventus approaches the Derby d`Italia with a perfect record and goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio still unbeaten, much credit goes to the returning Gleison Bremer and the balance achieved by advancing Pierre Kalulu as a full-back in the 3-4-2-1 formation. This strategy, tested against Parma and reiterated against Genoa, will be maintained by Tudor even against Inter. It will be Kalulu`s task to keep Federico Dimarco or his counterpart, Carlos Augusto, in check. “That role can be played even without dribbling, but with the right movements, as Kalulu does,” Tudor explained. The emphasis is on less flair and more defensive coverage, all to the advantage of Francisco Conceição and his array of feints, dribbles, and one-on-one skills.
And David…
Tudor is unlikely to alter his attacking lineup, at least initially. Jonathan David, fresh from scoring with Canada, will again lead the line between Yildiz and Conceição. The former Lille forward is clinical in the box (as seen with goals against Parma and Romania) but is also adept at dropping deep to link up with teammates and facilitate runs from attacking midfielders, wing-backs, and central midfielders. He acts as both a finisher and a “catalyst,” aiming to disrupt Inter`s defense and introduce unpredictability. David will start, with Vlahović and Openda available from the bench to influence the game.
