Juventus vs Galatasaray – Spalletti: ‘Yildiz could start, Bremer at risk’
Luciano Spalletti has offered a glimpse into his thinking ahead of Juventus’ Champions League last-16 second leg against Galatasaray, with selection decisions across several key positions still yet to be finalised.
The Juventus head coach spoke to Sky Sport in the build-up to the tie, with his side needing to overturn a 5-2 deficit in the return fixture.
The contest promises to be a tense affair, and Spalletti’s team news will be closely scrutinised given the stakes involved and a number of fitness doubts hanging over the squad.
Juventus vs Galatasaray – ‘Yildiz wants to play’ – Spalletti
Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated update concerned Kenan Yildiz, and Spalletti’s words will delight supporters.
“Yildiz wants to be involved, all the signals he has sent point in that direction,” he said, with quotes via Alfredo Pedulla.
“He could start from the first minute.”
The Turkish forward has been one of Juventus’ most important players this season, and his potential return to the starting lineup will provide a significant lift ahead of such a crucial European night.
At the back, however, there is more uncertainty.
Spalletti confirmed that Gleison Bremer remains a doubt, with a final assessment planned for the morning of the match.
“There is a degree of risk with Bremer, we will evaluate carefully tomorrow morning,” he said, leaving his defensive options open.
In midfield, Spalletti indicated that either Teun Koopmeiners or Weston McKennie could operate on the left side, describing it as one of the likely options without fully committing to either.
There was also the suggestion that Mattia Perin could start in goal, potentially ahead of regular number one Michele Di Gregorio.
“There is a need to protect certain situations, but in this case it could be that way,” Spalletti said carefully.
Whatever the starting eleven, Spalletti left no doubt about what he demands from his players. “I will never be satisfied if we do not qualify,” he said plainly.