Luciano Spalletti has acknowledged that not giving Lois Openda more playing time this season was a personal error, despite the striker’s impressive commitment.
Openda has struggled in his debut season at the Allianz Stadium, scoring only twice in 34 appearances across all competitions. He joined Juventus on loan from RB Leipzig last summer, with an obligation to buy that was triggered after the club secured a top-ten finish.
Spalletti Praises Openda’s Professionalism Amidst Limited Playtime
The Belgium international has accumulated just over 1,100 minutes on the pitch for Juventus this season, with only 688 of those coming under Spalletti’s management since October.
When questioned about Openda’s lack of opportunities, Spalletti stated (via Sky Sport): “That is another mistake I’ve made. I have to make decisions, but I’m sure I’ll get something wrong.
He continued, “He is committed and demonstrates outstanding professionalism. I haven’t played him much because I thought others could give me better results.”
With Dusan Vlahovic now recovered from injury, Openda is expected to see even less action in the remaining three games of the season. Vlahovic could even start against Lecce, as Spalletti indicated in his pre-match press conference.
Juventus paid €3 million for Openda’s loan and have an option to purchase him permanently for €42 million.