Tensions rise regarding the striker situation: with David arriving (just the first step), Comolli must resolve the Vlahovic issue, which is becoming a problem.
“Now is not the time to discuss individuals,” stated Damien Comolli after the Real-Juve match that saw the Old Lady exit the Club World Cup. He was referring to the “delicate market situations” at Juventus, chief among them Dusan Vlahovic. While the new general manager chose not to speak about specific players, that particular player (DV9) managed to make headlines on his own, even without playing in Miami. His World Cup campaign concluded with 90 minutes on the bench, followed a few hours later by a “like” on Jude Bellingham`s latest Instagram post, where the Real Madrid forward celebrated reaching the quarter-finals.
The Growing Rift
His friendship with the English player and boundless sportsmanship weren`t enough excuses for fans who viewed this seemingly minor action as another misstep by the Serb during an already sensitive period. In times like these, even a simple “heart” on social media is scrutinized and can carry significant weight.
The summer planned for his transfer, which was (and remains) the club`s intention, is becoming complicated. A few weeks ago, Dusan rejected the lucrative contract Fenerbahce was ready to offer him, leaving a significant question mark over his future. Essentially, if he leaves, it will have to be on his own terms, heading to a club that satisfies him technically and financially. Furthermore, the striker himself – the `nueve`, as he calls himself, perhaps to emphasize he still wears the number 9 shirt at Juve – might not mind staying another year to leave for free next summer. This is an option Juventus finds difficult to accept, as they continue efforts to create a more sustainable financial structure, and Vlahovic`s salary – currently ten and a half million – is clearly contrary to this goal.
Dusan returns from the United States having played 126 minutes across 4 matches, scoring two goals that were irrelevant to the outcomes against Wydad and Manchester City. He also had an on-field dispute with Yildiz when the match against the English side was already beyond saving. A misplaced pass from the Turk prompted Vlahovic`s reaction, leading to an argument with his teammate – a understandable moment of frustration, yet one that didn`t go unnoticed and raised some eyebrows. The World Cup could have been an opportunity to mend ties, and in the best-case scenario, a chance to envision a future together. Instead, Vlahovic and Juve, now that their journey overseas is over, seem even further apart than before. The anticipated meeting between Comolli and the striker`s agent will be crucial, as will the parties` willingness to find a compromise. Although Dusan`s Juventus story might be nearing its end, navigating the final stretch without reaching a complete impasse would make all the difference.
