Spalletti’s extension not enough: Juventus need ‘four big signings,’ says ex-winger
Former Juventus winger Massimo Mauro believes the Bianconeri must complete four top-level signings to compete for the Serie A title and the Champions League next season: ‘Spalletti isn’t a magician.’
Juventus are fighting for a Champions League spot, sitting fifth in the Serie A table, one point below Como.
However, the Azzurri have a better head-to-head record this season, so if the two sides finish level on points, Como will finish higher.
Mauro: ‘Spalletti isn’t a magician’
Regardless of which European competition they’ll play in next season, Juventus are still determined to continue with Luciano Spalletti and are expected to confirm the coach’s contract extension shortly.
Mauro argued that the Italian tactician’s permanence alone wouldn’t be enough for Juve to return to greatness next season.
“Spalletti isn’t a magician; he needs players of the right level to compete for the title and the Champions League, because that’s what Juventus are expected to do,” Mauro told Gazzetta.
“I’m sure Comolli and Chiellini already have their list of players well organised and are targeting players of Juventus level.”
The former winger went on to say that the Old Lady will need an “international-level goalkeeper,” plus “a top-class defender, a top-class midfielder and a top-class centre-forward.”
As for Spalletti, Mauro’s expectations are clear: “He must do what he managed at Napoli. Create the awareness of being strong and prove it humbly, game after game. At Juventus, there’s an environment that keeps you grounded, so it should be easier than at Napoli.
“However, this only applies if you get four big signings right,” Mauro continued.
“Kim, Anguissa, Lotobka and Osimhen were crucial in winning the title alongside Kvraratskhelia; they were the backbone of the team, and that’s exactly what Juventus need to find.”
The former Juventus man also highlighted that many players, including Kenan Yildiz and Marcus Thuram, have clearly improved under Spalletti.
“Kelly has become another player you can really rely on for the future, and that wasn’t a given considering how he started last season,” Mauro concluded.
“He’s truly a cornerstone and has overtaken Gatti, who was untouchable under Allegri.”