Juventus vs. Palermo: Predicted Lineups with David Leading the Bianconeri Attack

The final Australian fixture for Juventus sees them facing Palermo in a friendly match at Perth's Optus Stadium. Coach Luciano Spalletti is expected to make changes to the lineup seen against Inter, while maintaining the 4-2-3-1 formation used during their preparation. New signings Randal Kolo Muani and Kerim Alajbegovic are unlikely to start, as they continue to build match fitness and may feature in the second half.

Jonathan David is anticipated to lead the attack, supported by Francisco Conceição, Weston McKennie, and Kenan Yildiz. In goal, Mattia Perin will start, as confirmed by Spalletti during his pre-match press conference.

Perin Starts, Bremer Potentially on the Bench

The goalkeeping position is set. Spalletti has announced Perin's inclusion, giving him an opportunity to impress while the club evaluates its options. A four-man defense is expected in front of him. Zeki Çelik is the favorite for the right-back spot, with Andrea Cambiaso on the left. At center-back, Pierre Kalulu is likely to be paired with Lloyd Kelly. Gleison Bremer, who played against Inter, is expected to start on the bench as the staff manage his gradual return to full fitness and avoid excessive physical exertion during this preparatory phase.

This match also presents another chance for Çelik to integrate into the team's tactics, offering experience, balance, and defensive awareness.

Douglas Luiz Confirmed in Midfield

Douglas Luiz is expected to feature again in midfield, likely partnering Manuel Locatelli. This duo will be responsible for initiating play and shielding the defense. Juventus aims to increase the tempo of their ball circulation and improve their build-up play from the back. Douglas Luiz will need to demonstrate personality and precision, using this test to strengthen his standing with Spalletti.

Locatelli will act as the anchor in front of the defense, though both midfielders will have the flexibility to switch roles in build-up play. The objective is to avoid slow and predictable maneuvers, a weakness that surfaced in their loss to Inter.

Arthur is expected to begin on the bench, despite consistent training. He could feature in the second half as Spalletti rotates the squad.

David at the Center of Attack

Jonathan David has another opportunity to impress the coach and management. While market rumors about his future persist, he is expected to be the starting center forward against Palermo. He will be supported by a talented attacking trio behind him: Conceição on the right, Yildiz primarily on the left, and McKennie operating centrally. McKennie's mobility will allow Juventus to adapt their formation during the game, increasing their presence in the box. David will be tasked with making deep runs and providing a focal point for the attacking midfielders. His finishing will be under particular scrutiny, as he has yet to consistently showcase his goal-scoring prowess during pre-season.

Kolo Muani and Alajbegovic Ready for Second Half

Kolo Muani and Alajbegovic are likely to start on the bench. Both are recent arrivals and are still working towards their peak physical condition.

Spalletti is cautious about overexerting them, especially given the demands of travel, varying temperatures, and a packed schedule during this preparation period. Both new signings are expected to play a significant portion of the second half.

Kolo Muani could either replace David or play alongside him in a more attacking setup. Alajbegovic can operate on either wing or behind the striker. The match against Palermo will be crucial for accelerating their integration into the team's dynamics.

Predicted Lineups Juventus-Palermo

Juventus (4-2-3-1): Perin; Çelik, Kalulu, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Douglas Luiz; Conceição, McKennie, Yildiz; David. Coach: Luciano Spalletti.

Palermo (4-2-3-1): Joronen; Cassandro, Bani, Barba, Augello; Estevez, Ranocchia; Johnsen, Hernani, Le Douaron; Pohjanpalo. Coach: Filippo Inzaghi.