Mattioli: Spalletti Needs to Fully Grasp the Essence of Coaching Juventus

Journalist Mario Mattioli, a self-proclaimed Juventus fan, stated on Radio Bianconera's Fuori di Juve that coach Luciano Spalletti still needs to fully understand the demands of managing Juventus. "Once he truly comprehends it," Mattioli suggested, "he will likely be able to convey this to the team."

Mattioli recalled the team's heavy loss to Sassuolo, noting that Juventus fielded five substitutes, with only Vicario representing Italian talent. He referenced John Elkann's desire to see more Italian players at the club, questioning the significant investment in foreign players who may not fit the Juventus identity. Mattioli believes the club's inherent obligation is to compete for the championship, a point he feels club management has yet to fully grasp.

"Many things can be said about Andrea Agnelli," Mattioli continued, "but one cannot deny that he understood what it meant to be Juventus president. This understanding was evident in his management style and communication. This is no longer the Juve we know. The hope is for a gradual recovery, but with which players? The team lacks genuine class. They need a midfielder capable of orchestrating play. Given the revenue generated, couldn't they have signed a seasoned striker? Woltemade shows promise but isn't Juve material. Kolo Muani's high transfer fee seems excessive. I hope he proves himself, but I don't understand the intense pursuit of him."

Addressing the news of Exor's recapitalization of Juventus, Mattioli commented, "The aim is to return to winning. Elkann has summoned the entire Juventus management to plan for January. The goal is to identify 2-3 immediate acquisitions needed for the team's ascent, hoping Juventus remains in the top positions to make that leap. Primarily, they need to reach the Champions League. The capital injection is intended to restore Juventus to its rightful standing, given its history."

Regarding the future presidency, Mattioli expressed reservations about Alessandro Del Piero, citing his comfortable, criticism-free lifestyle. He considered the potential return of Andrea Agnelli, suggesting that while Agnelli made strides, he was poorly advised. Mattioli believes Agnelli could return constructively with Giovanni Carnevali as general manager. He was uncertain about Elkann's sister taking on the role.