Interview I Journalist Mirko Di Natale: “Juventus has changed three of four forwards squad, which came as a surprise to me”

Interview I Journalist Mirko Di Natale: “Juventus has changed three of four forwards squad, which came as a surprise to me” With Juventus coming off three consecutive undefeated matches, wins against Frosinone and Parma respectively and a recent draw to Milan, as well a very active transfer market for the Bianconieri in coach Luciano Spalletti’s second season, the Get Italian Football News team had journalist Mirko Di Natale of TuttoJuve provide his insight on the Old Lady. Although a lack of finishing in the final third remains to be key issue and the Bianconeri continue to struggle with closing off matches, Juventus have had a pretty steady start as they sealed 7 points out of 9 points available and have only conceded one goal/ Mirko first discussed regarding the changes in the back-line, as Juventus brought in Bologna’s Jhon Lucumi and Zeki Celik of Roma. “Jhon Lucumi and Zeki Celik are two good signings for Serie A. Their arrival helps boost competitiveness within a solid defensive unit, but let’s remember that they aren’t top-tier players. In my view, Juve will need to be astute about acquiring defenders of a different caliber in the near future.” In addition, Mirko touched upon the acquisition of Bayern Leverkusen’s Kerim Alajbergovic, as well as a behind of scenes of the role Miralem Pjanic played in luring the promising winger towards Juventus. “Miralem Pjanic played a pivotal role in Kerim Alajbegovic’s move to Juventus. Without him, the Bosnian player would most likely be elsewhere. Juventus did an excellent job executing a swift move to snatch him from Chelsea and Atalanta—the latter having been convinced they had already secured him. In time, we will see him blossom.” Furthermore, Mirko provided his perspective regarding the revolution in attack, as the Biancoeri secured Frenchman Kolo Muani on a permanent basis this time, Genoa’s Jeff Ekhator, and the surprise loan signing of Nick Woltemade of Newcastle. “Juventus has changed three of the four forwards currently in the squad, which came as a surprise to me. I hadn’t expected the arrival of Ekhator—an opportunity seized in June that bears the stamp of Sporting Director Ottolini, who knows him well—nor was I certain that Nick Woltemade would make the move to Juve. It was a deal that came together very quickly: it originated on a Friday and took shape between Sunday and Monday. Atlético’s refusal regarding Sørloth, combined with the realization that they couldn’t land Mateta—who didn’t secure his release from Crystal Palace—prompted the club to acquire a center-forward who had cost €80 million just a year earlier. I was convinced Kolo Muani would arrive; he had been a long-term target, and I hope he repays the club’s faith in him. In my opinion, the three of them will manage to outperform the recent past—I am certain of it.” Finally, Mirko discussed the changes in between the sticks, as Juventus decided to part ways with Michele Di Gregorio and deem Vicario of Tottenham as the successor in goal. “I don’t recall such a drastic overhaul between the posts. Vicario and Grabara will have to live up to the standards of a club that has historically represented excellence in that position. I consider Vicario a good goalkeeper, though I felt something else was needed. I’m glad the fans—despite some initial skepticism—have already started getting behind him. He had a poor season last year, but no one has taken away his talent. Football isn’t *Space Jam*; it’s a sport where there’s always room for a second chance. And I’m convinced he’ll do well.” Julian Faustini I GIFN