Tudor`s Method: A Strategic Game Plan
For Tudor, preparing for this iconic fixture is less about visiting the J-Museum for historical inspiration and more about a methodical, almost “video game” approach. With a significant portion of his squad scattered across Europe on international duty, practical training at the Continassa has been limited. Yet, this hasn`t deterred the Croatian strategist. Instead, it has fostered a period of intense theoretical study, where certainties are solidified, and new ideas are meticulously explored to dissect Inter`s strengths and exploit their weaknesses. The goal is clear: beat Inter and continue their flawless run.
The Dumfries Dilemma: Enter McKennie`s `Speed Trap`
One of Inter`s most potent weapons is Denzel Dumfries, the Dutch wing-back who operates like a veritable express train on the right flank, often functioning as an auxiliary attacker. Containing such a dynamic force is paramount. This is where Igor Tudor`s tactical ingenuity truly shines, with the potential “relaunch” of Weston McKennie from the first minute being more than just a temptation. McKennie, a genuine utility player or “jolly” in Italian football parlance, is being eyed for the right flank – not his most traditional role, but one where his work rate and physical presence could be invaluable. While Filip Kostic offers a more conventional left-footed option, McKennie`s tactical flexibility and his availability (unlike Kostic, who was on international duty) make him a strong contender. Tudor sees McKennie as a sort of “autovelox” – a speed camera – designed to monitor and halt Dumfries`s dangerous runs. The objective is to provide robust defensive cover, thereby “liberating” the creative brilliance of young Kenan Yildiz further up the pitch.
Kalulu`s Flank Fortification: Unlocking Attacking Flair
The defensive philosophy extends to the opposite flank, where Juventus’s recent solidity has been remarkable. Their undefeated status and goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio`s clean sheet record are testaments to a newfound balance, significantly aided by the return of Gleison Bremer and the advancement of Pierre Kalulu into a full-fledged wing-back role within the 3-4-2-1 formation. Kalulu’s disciplined performance against Parma and Genoa solidified his place, and Tudor will entrust him with containing Inter’s Federico Dimarco or his counterpart, Carlos Augusto. As Tudor succinctly explained, “That role can also be interpreted without dribbling, but with the right movements, as Kalulu does.” This emphasis on intelligent movement and defensive diligence over flashy individual skills is a hallmark of Tudor`s approach, crucially allowing Francisco Conceiçao to unleash his arsenal of feints, dribbles, and one-on-one prowess.
The Striking Spearhead: Jonathan David and the Reserves
While the flanks are being meticulously guarded, Tudor is unlikely to tinker with his attacking setup from the outset. Leading the line between Yildiz and Conceiçao will be Jonathan David, fresh from a goal for Canada. The former Lille striker possesses a cold-blooded finishing instinct, as seen in his goals against Parma and Romania. However, David`s role transcends mere goal-poaching; he`s equally adept at dropping deep to link play, engaging with teammates, and facilitating runs from the attacking midfielders and wing-backs. He serves as both a “terminal” and a “catapult,” disrupting the opposition`s defensive shape and creating space for others. Should the initial plan require a shift, Juventus boasts formidable options from the bench in Dusan Vlahovic and Loïs Openda, ready to be deployed as game-changers.
Conclusion: A Calculated Clash
The upcoming Derby d`Italia is shaping up to be a compelling tactical battle. Igor Tudor`s Juventus is not merely playing for three points; they are showcasing a clear, calculated strategy built on defensive resilience on the wings, designed to stifle Inter`s threats and simultaneously unleash their own creative forces. With McKennie as the unlikely bulwark against Dumfries and Kalulu anchoring the left, Juventus aims to control the wide areas, allowing Yildiz and Conceiçao to dazzle, all supported by David’s versatile presence up front. The stage is set for a fascinating contest where strategic planning will likely prove as decisive as individual brilliance.