Former Juventus winger Massimo Mauro believes that the Bianconeri must make four high-caliber acquisitions to contend for the Serie A title and the Champions League next season, emphasizing that “Spalletti isn’t a magician.”
Juventus is currently battling for a Champions League qualification spot, sitting fifth in the Serie A standings, just one point behind Como. However, due to a superior head-to-head record this season, Como would finish ahead if both teams end the season with the same number of points.
Mauro: ‘Spalletti Isn’t a Magician’
Regardless of their European competition status for the upcoming season, Juventus is determined to continue with Luciano Spalletti and is anticipated to formalize the coach’s contract extension shortly. Mauro argued that the Italian tactician’s continued presence alone will not be enough for Juventus to regain their former glory next season.
“Spalletti isn’t a magician; he needs players of the right caliber to compete for the title and the Champions League, as that is what is expected of Juventus,” Mauro told Gazzetta. “I am sure that Comolli and Chiellini already have their player list well-organized and are targeting players of Juventus’s level.”
The former winger further stated that the Old Lady will require an “international-class goalkeeper,” a “top-tier defender,” a “top-tier midfielder,” and a “top-tier center forward.”
Regarding Spalletti’s role, Mauro’s expectations are clear: “He must replicate what he achieved at Napoli. Foster the belief in being strong and prove it humbly, game after game. At Juventus, there is an environment that keeps you grounded, so it should be easier than it was at Napoli.”
“However, this is only viable if they get four significant signings correct,” Mauro continued. “Kim, Anguissa, Lobotka, and Osimhen were instrumental in winning the title alongside Kvaratskhelia; they formed the team’s backbone, and that is precisely what Juventus needs to find.”
The former Juventus player also pointed out that numerous players, including Kenan Yildiz and Matias Soulé (mistakenly referred to as Marcus Thuram in the original article), have demonstrably improved under Spalletti’s guidance.
“Soulé has become another player that you can truly rely on for the future, which was not a given considering how he started last season,” Mauro concluded. “He is truly a cornerstone and has surpassed Gatti, who was considered untouchable under Allegri.”
