With the league fixture remaining a chance merely to prance and revel in the afterglow of championship glory, Allegri officially extending his contract and the Coppa Italia final to look forward to, the time seems ripe to begin a series of appraisals of our progress.
Back in October, Juve’s fortunes were mirroring my own. Which is often the case. Or perhaps just how I perceive my own existence as governed by or in sync with the focus of my passions. In some ways, La Vecchia Signora is not far removed from a marriage, from whence I can never leave. Sometimes relations are hurtful, agonising, on other occasions our union is blessed for my own heart and essence rises and falls in time with her tides.
Unconditional love and devotion is as rare as it is special and all consuming, and it is rooted in the foundation of all true love, namely charity. Wanting the very best for another, no matter what they do, how they treat you, how they fare. Yet with such sublime sensation, such closeness to what we must accept as the closest we come to heaven on Earth, comes the acceptance that our love is often not enough to soothe, to lift, to improve, for we suffer when the source of such fanatical devotion suffers, we laugh when they laugh, we cry when they cry, yet accept that when our love is not enough, only they can lift themselves out of the mire…
After allowing three of our world class stalwarts to flee the nest last Summer, we brought in a troupe of new recruits. Some experienced, some of great potential. To continue the momentum found through a domestic double and reaching the pinnacle of European competition, we desperately needed the veterans of the side to remain fit and firing on all cylinders during the initial period of transition. Unfortunately that was not what transpired. Injuries to key players began even before the first whistle heralding the flood gates of Serie A once more stretched apart.
Whilst I was a steady force of support for Allegri, understanding the adversity to which we had succumbed, I was close to accepting that we may well face a horribly uphill struggle to recover our dignity and form with enough wind in our sails to achieve Champions League qualification, such was our dire position in October. I knew we would improve, assumed it would begin with the return of Marchisio, yet worried that those well above us in the table would forge a divide too great to bridge.
There is little need to delve into the intricacies of our phenomenal revival and subsequent record-breaking march to victory worthy of Titans. In addressing such matters, I am solely keen to suggest that through learning how to suffer then grit our teeth before baring our fangs with such steady fury that we find ourselves now with the title won, will have been the making of many players, new to the fold. The value of the struggle cannot be underestimated, and goes a long way to explaining how we managed, with still a make-shift team absent of several seasoned warriors, to come so damn close to progressing in Europe at the expense of one of the finest sides ever assembled and conducted accordingly. Those two ties against Bayern – I believe – made men of boys, Generals of sergeants. Which can only stand us in stronger stead come the next time we face such adversaries. The battles instilled a gilded belief in the squad, that they can not only match the very best the universe can presently offer as foes, but conquer them, with the help of a wider smile of Lady Luck. The hardening of spirit forged through such warfare has nourished our legion immeasurably.
And so where to begin? Perhaps at the back…
Buffon has produced one of the finest campaigns of his majestic career. Proving himself a living legend who has concreted his position in history as one of the finest goalkeepers of all time, for now and always. Succession planning in this position is trickier than anywhere else on the field, for how does one replace a legend? I was jolly to find our interest in Trapp last year, who has since moved to PSG. More recently we were strongly linked with the outstanding talents of Alisson, who seems now destined to move to Roma. Why? Because we could not offer him any guarantees of a first XI spot. For obvious reasons. Perhaps Beppe and Fabio concluded ‘nevermind…we can allow Roma to nurture his talent, see how he fares, and if we maintain our superiority domestically, we can sign him next year’. Which leaves Neto, who has not been given the chance to seriously stake a claim as pretender to the throne of Buffon.
Other than which we have Leali…
Also Audero of the U19s, Pinsoglio, Fiorillo and Brignoli. Yet it is only Leali who deserves even a semblance of serious suggestion. Perhaps Neto will be loaned elsewhere to be given the chance to prove his worth and ready himself for a future as our number one? I am at best unsure, and assume that we will spend next season seeking an established superstar. For the only keepers I see near to Buffon are De Gea, Loris and Neuer. Although Foster and Butland have great potential. Still…all Premier League players of any renown are hugely over priced.
In conclusion I will be happy to see Neto loaned and another quality backup enter the fray. Marchetti would serve our needs (His crazy eyes would be welcome!). In much the same way Storari has done in the past. As much as I would like to see Leali in the ranks, his development will be better served playing more regularly on loan elsewhere. Our second to Buffon must be hugely experienced and dependable.
Onto the defence…
Lichtsteiner is a monster. I have never heard of a player requiring heart surgery to then, post-operation, return to the starting XI within four weeks. 32 years old and still assuredly first choice. His engine and endeavour remain splendid. However, with Caceres departing we are in definite need of an understudy. Ideally a youngster with a few seasons under his belt at a decent level, able to come in, learn from the Swiss Locomotive and make the most of any chances on field afforded.
Some rumours have appeared of young Pol Lirola, the Spanish RB of our sparkling primavera this term. At 18 years of age, with no experience in senior football, he will surely need to mightily impress during the Summer ritiro in order to earn a place in Allegri’s squad next season. I assume he will be loaned, hopefully to a top tier club.
We also have in our ranks Joel Untersee (22), the South African born fullback who has represented Switzerland at all youth levels and played regularly in the Swiss top flight for two seasons on the trot. Still seems too early, but he may be considered, alongside Lirola, during the close season. Unlikely to find himself next to Barzagli and co next term.
I have often wondered if there was a Swiss look and now I find Joel appearing to confirm such a notion I have always considered hybrid German Italian French…For the youngster looks similar in glare and snout to his countryman Shaqiri!
Much talk of 24 year old Sime Vrsaljko has abounded sporadically throughout the season. The Croatian has enjoyed another sterling campaign and will surely be sold at a great profit by Sassuolo. Yet we are not his sole admirers. I suspect we will avoid any bidding wars, for Sime or any other, because we have not the haul of gold which some seem to assume. I would be happy to see the Croat emerge in our colours, yet ponder that we will be priced out of his signature.
Which leaves two other options for one of the most obvious moves to be made in the mercato.
Firstly, 23 year old Silvian Widmer, of Udinese. Who has endured a haphazard season in a struggling side. More of a risk, yet suitably cheaper than Sime.
Secondly, the more likely option of all aforementioned. Allegri’s man. He knows the player and wants the player. Also 23 years of age, capable of playing on either flank, Mattia De Sciglio seems the most logical purchase. Which seems fine and dandy. Plenty of time to develop and learn from the masters of his craft in close attendance, italian and knows the league. He would be my choice.
The centre backs are tricky to judge in terms of progress and next season. For whilst Allegri is expected to begin with the ever dependable 3-5-2, if we sign a trequartista for big money, it stands to reason to assume we will move to a flat back four. In which case, we require only four CBs, which we already possess.
Barzagli has been immense and was awfully missed when out injured for a few weeks earlier this term. We miss his presence and calmness more than any other of his rank. Andrea’s feathers are nigh impossible to ruffle. He is calm in the face of adversity, the value of which is supreme. Big Leo has proven classy, with only a minor downturn in form which caused our road to glory barely a shudder. And as for Kaiser Chiellini, I have become accustomed to losing him to muscle injuries for a third of the season in total, which with the progression of Rugani, has been accommodated by the side with ease.
As for my namesake Daniele…He began carefully, and yet with his first yellow card in 120000000000000000000 minutes of competitive action, his form and aggression and bite have gone from strength to strength. It is as if a weight has been lifted, and from studious and humble, we now see flashes of the beast he will become. I see much of Cannavaro in his development. And there is a certain vampiric quality to his countenance.
There is no obvious need for Benatia or any other major signing in this area, unless Bonucci leaves. Of which there has been some discussion, solely focused on Chelsea and the Conte connection, yet I would not be surprised to find Man City reacting to a nod from Guardiola and offering big money for the eminently capable Leonardo. Only in such circumstances could we need to spend any money on another stopper for the rearguard.
Over on the left flank of the rearguard phalanx we are brimming to burst. Alex Sandro has proven a superb signing. Not only can I offer plaudits of his marvellous foraging in the final third, consistently dangerous crossing, link up play and ability and confidence to drive in to shoot on goal, but also his defensive prowess has been high quality. I cannot recall a poor showing. I hope he is happy in Turin, for others will have noted his progress and blossoming talent.
His colleague in arms, Patrice Evra, whilst long in the tooth has proven reliable and his vast wealth of experience and leadership has assuredly assisted the cause and will continue to do so. We also have Asamoah who can reprise the role if required. No need to examine any options outside the squad for we are sound as a pound.
Which brings us to the midfield…a tricky and lengthy reckoning is due. For with the thankfully slim, yet ever present possibility of Pogba leaving (which BelgianJuventino so brilliantly outlined) forcing inclusion in the appraisal, alongside the long term injury to Il Principino, there is much to discuss.
The decision to adorn our Gallic Paul with the historic number 10 backfired. And it was not until momentum and form had been recovered, that we began to see the Frenchman anywhere close to his best. Still so young (23) Pogba has driven the team onwards with majesty and power since the turn of the year. Before which, he was lethargic. Perhaps the weight of the number 10 was to blame? Or more likely, the player was in two or three minds in terms of how in absence of his seasoned comrades, with the mantle placed at his feet, he was to launch the recovery. Regardless, he came good in 2016 and has regained his menace. As Allegri has suggested on occasion with careful calculation, Paul must learn to keep matters simple and to avoid the gimcracks and baubles, focus on the the victory and drive ever more pragmatic to the success of the team as a whole.
I believe he will remain in our ranks, for he wants to win the Champions League in our colours, as well as the Ballon d’or. Both of which I predict he will achieve next season. His possible departure is not rooted in gold, but in potential for our own ambitions meeting his own. Which are more coloured by glory than bank notes.
Claudio’s absence from the side hurt us more early doors in the stagione than any other absentee. Upon his return, everything changed for the better. I do not believe that regista is his most natural position, yet such is his sterling mentality and love for the club, he offers sturdy – albeit often quiet – reliability and resilience in the position. His ACL injury is more serious than some believe. Given his age and the amount of football he has played it seems unlikely he will return to first team action until 2017. Thankfully, unlike a striker or winger, Claudio’s game is not founded on swiftness in flesh, more-so in mind; a full recovery seems viable.
The position, acting as a pivot for the team beyond the defence and a screen for the rearguard, is of immense importance. It is a critical role which must be filled by proven class.
Gomes appears interesting, yet pricey and his experience at the top level is questionable. However, his skill set appears to suggest he could be not just a stand-in for Marchisio but also a trequartista. No doubt this fits the bill of what Beppe described when probed on our plans to fill the gap. He spoke of an eclectic midfielder, one who could cover several roles.
The recent rumours surrounding Matic are far more welcome, yet I cannot believe that Conte would wish to lose such a key linchpin of Chelsea’s most recent glory. The Serb, when on song, is a berserker capable of dominating opponents as well as a threat going forward. He runs hard, tackles with zeal and is comfortable with the ball at his feet. His physicality is another major strength. I would be overjoyed to see him arrive, yet logic suggests he will be staying put in London.
Whilst on the subject of Chelsea, the news has been largely absent of one of their players in whom our interest is certain and longstanding. Oscar seems a more likely purchase than the Serb, yet it depends on what system Conte is set to deploy and also how he is to use Radja Nainggolan, whose move to London seems assured.
Khedira has shown his quality, yet his injuries have been a constant bother. His ability to find promising positions in the box and play intelligent key passes is top drawer. In his stead, Sturaro can deputise with grit and mobility yet he seems perhaps the one midfielder too many we may move on. The reason I suggest this is Lemina. Who does not seem a natural DM by any measure, he is far too lively and eager to get involved. In fact whilst we have seen little of the Marseille import and the flashes of brilliance have been welcome, I am uncertain of where Allegri sees him fitting into the system which has done us proud for so many moons. Other than in the deputy Khedira stance, which puts him in direct opposition to Sturaro. However with the new ruling regarding home grown and club grown players to come into play, that may well lead to the Italian remaining at the club.
It is an intriguing question…If our hunt for a trequartista is once again in full flight, are we to see the 3-5-2 gradually phased out?
Asamoah has returned, and his form has been understandably hit and miss. Such a long lay-off means that we will only see him back to his best after a solid pre-season. Yet where does he fit into proceedings? Perhaps as the most obvious Pogba back-up? They rarely fare well when both find themselves on field, as both seem naturally eager to find top gear in the same position. For reasons yet to be discerned, Pogba’s potency is lessened by playing through the right midfield channels.
One player who I feel may benefit the most from Claudio’s injury is Rolando Mandragora. It is his natural role, and whilst he fractured his metatarsal recently and will miss pre-season I believe, he is the most natural fit in the DM position on our books. Not as the first choice, but certainly as the apprentice.
Last season saw Roberto Pereyra improve month upon month. Lame as a RWB he was then deployed as a trequartista where he flourished, linking the play between midfield and attack. His pace, tidiness on the ball and work rate were of great value as we charged so close to the triple. Injuries, as with so many of our flock, have horridly truncated his following campaign. Yet upon his return, he has appeared barely half the player he was. It could be a case of simply needing a long run in the team to regain match sharpness. Do we have the time to wait and hope? I believe not. And yes yes! It may seem harsh, but when our aim is to improve the squad, we can afford no passengers.
Of all the midfielders it is Pereyra I see as most likely to be sold. Sturaro would be the second choice, yet I am a great fan of his zeal and he has greater technique than is often assumed. To bring new players in, some must be culled. This is our reality.
Yet I have neglected Hernanes. A player much maligned by the Juventini hordes. Partly for his poor form earlier this season when many others were equally woeful, yet perhaps more so for he appeared after our Draxler hunt failed to hit the jackpot and many felt his best days were long past. Since the turn of the year, when the Brazilian has entered the field I have been impressed. Another player who has been in and out of the side, yet for me, he has done enough to remain in the ranks. Unless an offer appears agreeable to club and player. And we have to bring in his place a definite improvement, which is not Montolivo on a free. His experience and eagerness to play with the ball at his feet, to create attacks, offer an outlet for the defence and dribble, represents a package found in few others in the squad. He is also capable from dead ball situations. We cannot get too carried away with youthful exuberance shining more brightly in flashes than proven discipline and intelligence founded on vast experience.
One player more than any other appears to divide opinions. Signore Cuadrado. The Colombian has produced great effort and affected a fair few results through his dazzling pace. Yet my conclusion is very much in support of his departure back to London. For he makes more wrong than right decisions, his crossing is haphazard, dribbling often mundane and his end product too rarely matches the industry shown to reach a point of playing the killer pass or shooting on goal. I thank him for his efforts, and will be content if he remains, but 20m+ seems far too costly for a squad player.
Perhaps if we were to play a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 we could glean the finest value of the Colombian. Yet I believe we can do better for our money. His game is too singular and the football of today calls for versatility which I suspect is too late to develop in the commendable in effort and pace Juan.
A brief mention of the recent discussion of a potential 38m move for Pjanic. A wondrous talent who would transform our squad, yet presently, I cannot believe that Roma would let him join their most obvious rivals for domestic glory.
Which leaves finally the forwards, the fangs, the top end of our beautiful machine.
Simone Zaza’s first season in our colours has been largely valuable. He has scored some important goals and has always given his very best. We have seen the Good and we have seen the Ugly. His battling nature is so much part of his game that to attempt to dull such feisty eagerness for warfare would in turn dull his potency in other areas. He is an uncultured battering ram. Prone always to insanely rash challenges, often finding himself in the referee’s book within mere seconds of entering the play. This is a problem, and adds weight to the possibility of his departure. Some discord has been apparent, and whether his agent or the player himself as the source, words have been spoken too often of the expectation, need or simply desire to play more regularly for Zaza not to be high on the list of players we will sell for the right price. He has not made himself indispensable and I am yet to read of any statement from Allegri or Beppe confirming that we would like him to stay.
The most recent spat was dealt with by Allegri with his usual magnanimity. Suggesting he had shown great patience with the player and that he could become a major part of the the side we are forging. This is carefully different to comments about other players whose future may be questioned.
I admire his bite. It is one of the few missing elements of our squad, which as a whole lacks nastiness. We have always been this way, its clearly part of Lo Stile Juve. I can suggest Montero, Davids and Camoneresi as three players in 26 years of following the club ardently, who regularly displayed outright brutality and spite. I should add Zidane and Baggio, yet geniuses can be excused! The difference between Zaza and all of those aforementioned is that they could do one thing exceptionally well. Their viciousness could be accepted, at times awkwardly, but nonetheless, their value outweighed their tendency to fly into every tackle with a card the likely outcome. Whilst the officials in Serie A allow far worse tackles to occur without punishment than I see regularly leading to suspensions in the premier league, Zaza remains yet to convince me that he can do anything exceptionally.
As I was attempting to reach…there is much to be said of the fear factor. Of players knowing the reputation for brutality of a foe and such pondering entering their minds when faced with a 50/50 challenge. We have fear factor in technique and spirit, but not in brutality other than when Zaza is on the field. Its not enough.
One of those blocking his path to more regular football, Mario Mandzukic, has been a success. Ever more commendable work rate, capable in the box when presented with a chance to shoot aligned with cunning link-up play. His spirit and determination have played their part in our triumph. As Allegri has alluded, at times he tries to help too deep, too often, leaving the front line absent of a reference point. However, I am of the opinion that his experience and devotion to the cause is welcome and will remain a vital weapon in our arsenal.
Berardi seems destined to join us for the apparently agreed fee of 25m. Other than his disciplinary issues, which have improved, yet remain an issue, as aggression is clearly part of his game, Domenico is the kind of player who can unlock tight defences with inspiration and poetry. What continues to perplex me is that he has rarely suggested any eagerness whatsoever to join our ranks. He is a tricky player, young, ultra talented and with the right coaching I believe he could become a world star. Yet his purchase remains a roll of the dice. For he is untested at the highest level.
This story leans towards tricky when I am forced to focus on Morata. Discussion appears on a daily basis on whether he will stay or go. I have pondered the situation from every angle, many times over, and come to the conclusion that our Spanish starlet’s heart is not beating in time with our own. For he has some say in where he plays his football. Regardless of the buy-out clause.
Losing his lover last Summer, then succumbing to niggling injuries has not helped his development. In fact it is fair to say he has regressed as a player. Yet his searing pace and eye for goal are world class. He can turn on a sixpence and accelerates like Ben Johnson without the steroids and I dearly hope we can retain his services, for he is a special talent, one which can turn a match against the very finest of opponents, in the flash of an eye, with one moment of genius.
Is he the ideal partner for Dybala? No. His movements are too expansive, his major talents too needy of roaming across the width of the final third and foraging deeper. In short, he is at his best when afforded the chance to seek space, not act as a reference point in attack. This is why Allegri has more often chosen Mario ahead of Alvaro. If we can secure his full registration for 20m it will be good business, yet I cannot help but offer my consternation of his absence of stating more clearly that he wants to remain part of our club. As Imad suggested, when crunching down the certainties of the situation, the striker is likely unwilling to cause injury of any kind to his former club to whom he has strong bonds deep within his heart and soul. There is a marked difference between pleading for the clubs to sort out his future and expressing more fervently his desire to stay in Turin.
The jewel in the crown…
Dybala was signed for huge money. On the basis of one decent season in the top flight. He was brought into the first XI slowly, despite our injury woes. Yet once his divine gifts were given the chance to shine, his star ascended majestically and instantly became the major source of light in the darkness. The youngster is one of the most naturally wonderful talents I have ever seen at Juve.
His finest form seems when dove tailing with a target man, dropping deep to forage for the ball, then driving forward at pace and with ever increasing muscle. Clearly the club have worked on his physical strength and its borne beautiful fruit worthy of Eden. For no longer is he easily knocked off the ball, he rides tackles and has also improved his decision making. He can blossom still further, yet what we have already witnessed is a player destined for greatness. His dribbling is sublime, his left foot has revealed itself as a wand and the most welcome part of his presence at the club is not solely his unavoidable genius but his consistently expressed devotion to the cause.
I seem to have over-extended my initial aims, yet so be it. I can but finish solely through suggesting the following may well be moved on –
OUT
Cuadrado
Pereyra
Hernanes
Sturaro
Zaza
Morata
(Asamoah…possibly)
Padoin
And in their place, we will see appearing at Piedmont perhaps some of the following-
IN
Oscar
Di Sciglio
Mandragora
Berardi
Gomes
Batshuayi
Pjanic
Saponara
Lukaku (I assume that whilst I believe his prowess phenomenal, we would be priced out of any potential purchase as with most Premier League stars)
Two things to consider:
- We do not have the huge haul of revenue of last Summer to play with, which we earned through our charge to the final of the champions league and the market pool share. That gave us – I believe – around 90m. Our revenue of the same this season is less than a third of that figure. Which means, we must either invest at the expense of increasing our debt, and/or sell smartly to finance our purchases.
- From next season onwards each club’s 25-man squad has to include four homegrown players and four more club-trained players who were also Italian-born.
The new regulations define ‘homegrown’ players as those who spent at least three years between the ages of 15 and 21 at an Italian club, whether in a youth sector or first-team squad, or even away on loan so long as an Italian club still holds the player’s contract.
The ‘club-trained’ rule refers to a player who spent three of those formative years with the team currently holding their registration.
(from 4-4-2)
I will avoid any further analysis, for to do so, demands I include more detailed financial factors.
I look forward to joining you all in discussion.
Forza Juve
TGP
TGP, Champions League revenue = down, but all other revenue streams (tickets, sponsorships, match day, Museum & J Village etc) are up afaik. So the transfer kitty available is perhaps not as bleak as it might appear. Factor in there is 50+ million credit lines for Morata and Coman due. I would not be surprised if including monies due for those two (if those deals come to fruition) that all said we have 100+ million to play with *before* any further player sales income. Which is not too shabby.
Ahh how pleased to find so many brilliant responses, yet such bother to have not found the time during my working hours to peruse and respond.
And my mind is too haggard to ponder the number crunching with much zeal, yet I will try.
12m group stage participation
5.5m Last 16
4.5m for 3 wins
1m for 2 draws
23m in total PLUS the market pool share. 2 italians teams in the last 16, so that was divided between us and Roma at the upper end of the Italian market pool share routine. Perhaps we did then reach beyond 30m, I assume so. Yet at most perhaps half of the 90m from last season, likely closer to 30-35 in total I suspect.
Add in our sponsorship and the other revenue streams. Brings us closer to maybe 50-60m?
Sales could bring us closer to 100m. Zaza for 25m plus smaller amounts for others and perhaps 30m for Morata. Yet replacing Morata will cost us perhaps 40-50m? Leaving us a similar amount to find a AM, RB and DM/CM. I may be wrong, and of course, the club can add money from elsewhere, as our debt servicing has seemed steady the last two years.
Pereyra indeed used to resemble Vidal, and yet has since diminished in doppelganger efforts and form! I hope we can recoup the money paid for him. It appears Chelsea may be interested in Asamoah. Which seems odd to me, yet possible, given Conte’s penchant for hard working hard running players and Asamoah is one who he believes, perhaps, can be relied upon and shore up the LWB role. Perhaps he will adopt the same system in London?
Another excellent article TGP, always a pleasure to read your work. I agree with your independent analysis of each player, albeit one or two differing opinions. Below I will list my most updated and most preferred squad for 2016-17, which takes into consideration all of the talk from Marotta over for the last few weeks. For example, Isco and Gomes were included before, but not anymore.
GK: Buffon, Marchetti, Audero
DEF: Lichtsteiner, Vrsaljko, Rugani, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini, Benatia, Evra, Sandro
MID: Khedira, Lemina, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah, Matic, Mkhitaryan
ATT: Morata, Zaza, Dybala, Berardi, Mandzukic
OUT: Neto (15 million), Rubinho (0), Caceres (0), Pereyra (15 million), Hernanes (10 million) – 40 million total
IN: Marchetti (2 million), Vrsaljko (18 million), Benatia (Loan), Matic (25 million), Mkhitaryan (35 million), Morata (20 million), Berardi (25 million) – 125 million total
So far there is a net loss of 85 million euros, which could be brought down to 40-50 if we can sell Coman, Isla, and the other loanees relatively well.
Note: I would rather we make a hefty profit on Neto this year, and then keep Marchetti as back-up for 2 seasons until Superman calls it quits. Then in the summer of 2018, we spend BIG money on the next world class goalkeeper that can handle the role of being successor to Buffon, someone like De Gea.
This overall transfer market is far-fetched I know, but I view at as the best realistic transfer strategy, and I will compare results on September 1, 2016 to what we have now. I am sure that regardless of what happens, we won’t be disappointed.
Not totally unrealistic amico – We have chips to cash in on
Coman 28m – Neto could easliy fetch a high price, considering his age, Same for Pereyra, Isla – we can get small amounts for many of the other fringe players.
I think we can forget about Sime, he;s going to Barca by the sounds of it – the rest all seem reasonable, expect for Miki
So instead of Sime, we focus on De Sciglio? And if no Miki, then who is the world class CAM that will take us to the next level? I think Alexis Sanchez is in with a shout, but I doubt he has ever played as TQ before, but I’m not sure. Or do we just scrap the whole elusive TQ pursuit and play with 3 upfront? Interesting times ahead indeed.
I have assumed De Sciglio the more likely choice for a while, yet it depends what price AC demand. If they try to milk us, as they should given the awful mistake they made with Pirlo, we will turn elsewhere. The italian has plenty of time to improve and would not be coming as a starter. Around 10m would be palatable. Anything significantly higher unseemly.
Oscar is perhaps to be the AM. Failing which Saponara for 15m. I think the italian is choice C or D, and A and B are Oscar and one other.
Sanchez seems unlikely, mainly due to Arsenal having no need to sell, the price will be huge and his earnings are massive. Yet perhaps he will be happy to earn less but find greater chance of glory at the top level? Its possible.
De Sciglio is NT player, if things don’t go right, we can just sell him to Chinese Club lol
Cheers, ADP!
I do not think we will be able to afford the Armenian. He is courted by much deeper pockets. Also I am far from uncertain to agree that Hernanes would bring us 10m. Maybe 7m! Isla won’t fetch much.
Would Lazio allow their number one to leave for a pittance? Its possible.
Coman money is coming in instalments, yet still can be counted in our reckoning of our financial clout.
Would anyone purchase Pereyra for 15m?
A net loss of 85-100m seems too big a leap. I suspect the club will strengthen, yet find a balance between the ambition of club and star players and keeping our finances acceptable to the shareholders and board. No doubt we will find angst thrown at dear Beppe, who will remind us that we won the league (and coppa!?) and came within seconds of beating Munich. Which suggests that not much is needed to improve.
My own suggested outlay would appear something along the lines of…
OUT
Pereyra 10m
Padoin 3m
Cuadrado
Zaza 25m
Coman 20m (they paid 7m for the loan I vaguely recall)
Hernanes 7m
Morata 30m
Neto 15m
110m in total
Add that to our revenue from tv mainly and elsewhere which I estimate at 60-70m, let us be generous and say 100m…which gives around 200m in total.
Our wage bill for this season was 124m. We must take this into consideration. In terms of expenditure and the freeing up of funds with players leaving the club. Yet I doubt any top earners are leaving, only Morata potentially. Also, players will receive pay rises.
This makes the readily available gold look rather less than some have hoped, including myself. At my most optimistic I reach for 75m to play with.
IN
Berardi 25m
Mandragora
Matic 25m
De Sciglio 12m
Oscar 30m
Marchetti 2m
Batshuayi 30m
124m, with the wages on top making it seem closer to 150m.
Again, as I wrote elsewhere I find such a figure too fanciful, yet with the wonders of amortisation and the expectation of a stronger run in Europe and continued success domestically, perhaps its viable? Why not allow ourselves to dream eh! And like you ADP, I do not believe we will be disappointed.
I’m a proponent of giving more chances to Primavera players. Like Audero, Lirola, Clemenza and Vitale. I mean, why not play them 30min in games against lower teams to gain experience? Juve keep sending players on loan, but hardly any player returns to become a vital part in the senior team. That has to change, as the talent is there.
I think that that is just part of the Calcio system, but yes I agree with you. If an 18-19 year Primavera player is good enough to play for Juve, then he should be in our squad, and not be perpetually loaned out.
Its a tricky area to cover with any certainty, Vince. Since the little ones in the primavera are only tested against others of their age bracket, we can see the talent there, but only at youth level. How many other clubs do you know of who regularly promote 19-12 years old directly into the senior squads? I know of few, especially at the top level.
The stakes are so high that the question of whether we can risk a place in a squad aiming to compete at the elite level, for a youngster with zero senior experience under their belt. In Pogba’s case yes yes! For his talent at 19 was enormous and he had the physical prowess. It is that lack of muscle and physical development which I believe weighs heavily against possible promotion. Look at Bioty Kean. 16 years old, ultra talented and physically…already well developed. I wouldn’t yet give up on the loans we have elsewhere. Appelt has enjoyed a great season, and were it not for Mandragora I would be keen to see him considered for the back-up to CM/Regista. I know his club have a buy-out clause but if we came calling…Bouy is finally finding his feet in his homeland and is not yet fully out of the reckoning. Could be another option at DM/CM.
Perhaps Lirola will persuade Allegri he is good enough for the senior squad. Clemenza is unfortunately mangled, Audero is too young to be reserve to Buffon.
The current flock of U19s have been very impressive indeed…I shall offer a report in due course, after the primavera finals (we finished top of our group, lost the coppa final to Inter and brought home the viareggio).
Juventus should buy a replacement for Buffon. Neto has not met expectations.
Hmmmm, how has he not met expectations? He has only played 5-6 games this season and done ok in them.
But I agree that he should be sold if we can guarantee a suitable replacement and if we are offered 15 million minimum for him.
De Gea would be awesome. Perfect replacement for Buffon
De Gea would at least cost 40million and he wouldnt accept a role as second goalie though. As long as we have Buffon starting, Neto is one of the best second goalies we can have.
The only possible replacements are other goalies well in their thirties. Think of Marchetti or Sirigu for example
De Gea in 2018 though
Even then he will be too expensive, I would much rather have an Italian though
Which Italian is even close to taking his gloves? Unfortunately there are not many, I don’t believe Leali is quite there yet, which is what I am reading. Donnarumma is the dream, but I feel we’d have even higher chances for De Gea rather than him.
I know, it will be hard to get a worthy Italian, but I was only expressing my personal preference. Donnarumma or Perin would be the target for me. Or by the time Buffon quits, maybe Leali or Audero or maybe even someone else?
De Gea is impossible in my eyes. Huge fee, huge wages and why would he want Juve when he has any top club to pick from? I expect a move to La Liga sooner or later for him
Superb TGP
Found myself agreeing with most of what you wrote, comrade. Especially in relation to Pereyra, who i’m yet to be fully convinced by.
So much of our policy is going to be dictated by what happens to the players we have, much like last summer.
I can see Pogba staying on another season, especially if Uncle Pat is there for another 2 years at least.
I, like you, am starting to feel Alvaro’s heart might be elsewhere. As you perfectly put it, he can;t play alongside Dybala – they both need space to move around in, and Morata can’t be that focal point of the attack – He’s better, leading the counter attack and running at defenders.
I fear Madrid might offer him the chance to play first team football next season – whether or not things pan out for him, i’m not so sure of.
All that said, a new striker or perhaps 2, if Zaza also leaves in search of pastures new, means we’ll have to spend heavy. Cavani and the boy Lapadula, perhaps ?
I think we need to revise that midfield a little. Marchisio is going to take time to recover, Khedira is not reliable and the replacements are not of the standard to face the likes of Bayern, even if they did well this time round. Sturaro should stay along with utliity-man Asamoah. Pereyra should be cashed in on, along with Hernanes.
A new midfielder and perhaps this elusive trequartista to make the difference for us?
Defence looks good as it is, perhaps another CB for when/if Caceres leaves. A RB is a must to deputise for Lichty.
Other than that, we’re set. The important players are staying, and we have a policy of moving on those that are not happy to stay and be part of the future.
Food for thought, comrade – A fantastic assessement of where we are and what we need, in order to be ready for next seasons challenges !
Brace yourselves for the summer ahead !
FORZA JUVE !
Many thanks for the praise, my friend!
I am increasingly of the opinion that Morata will depart. I will be bothered if he ends up at Chelsea, other than which, if his heart isn’t with Juve, I am happy to bid him farewell. As seems the case…
The Benatia idea only makes sense if we are set to remain tied to the 3-5-2, else four classy CBs is perfect for a flat back four.
The question of whether to move to a different formation is something I have started working on, so will save the analysis for another piece.
Bringing in Berardi will end us to a 4-3-3 and with Sandro perfectly capable as an orthodox fullback and Lichsteiner capable of the same on the right, I suspect we may move towards that,
Buffon
Lichsteiner Bonucci Chiellini Sandro
Khedira Matic Pogba
Berardi Mandzukic Dybala
Yet with Dybala pretty much playing a hybrid trequartista role…that is an immensely powerful team. For me, Matic is the key.
So much hinges on who we sign to play CM and also if we sign a top drawer AM/ Trequartista.
I believe that Dybala’s game might even suffer in a 4-3-1-2 where he is one of the front two players. He has excelled at foraging deep and dirty and then driving forward, creating as well as threatening with his own efforts on goal.
Its a bother that so much remains up in the air. The sooner we have some clarity the better.
I would literally cry of joy of we could switch Asamoah for Matic and lure in Alexis. I mean, that’s all we need, apart from a backup at RB… And I like De Sciglio at the position, with Vrsaljko possibly costing too much.
that would be astounding business – my hope is that Conte still has some love for young Kwadwo and sees him as a player that can fit in more than one position in his new look Chelsea
absolutely agree – The sooner I can get my head around what the formation will be next season, the sooner i can see which players are coming in and out – not that it matters in the grander scheme of things, it would just be helpful for my own sanity this summer !
I’m hoping Conte’s undying love for Juve might help him nudge matic in our direction…..failing that, we’ll throw some money at the problem, and perhaps some fantacalcio would see Asamoah go in the opposite direction!
Who knows ! Long summer ahead comrade
Even though last season we reached the final, this season UEFA increased the Prize money by around 30% so CL revenue didn’t fall as much as you stated, moreover, there is increased revenue from the adidas deal + Italy TV deal….
Ah…Alexis…Perhaps I was mistaken, and we made close to half of the 90m of last year, but still, the difference is tens of millions I’m afraid. However, I am unsure how much we have made elsewhere. I have made some suggested calculations further down, will be eager for you to weigh in, correct where possible!
Cheers, TGP
whether we’re playing 3-5-2 or 4-3-1-2 I still dont know where Berardi will be played tho.
I agree with you, he can’t be a starter in either of those formations. I would say, if Morata leaves, and Sanchez comes in as is being reported, we could potentially do a 4-3-2-1 or a 4-3-3. With Sanchez LW, Dybala CF, Berardi RW
yeah, if we about to accommodate Berardi, we need at least another winger. Don’t think it will be Sanchez tho.
Bring in De Sciglio, Sandro can play LW! Patrice and the youngster sharing the LB role. But no…What of Dybala in such circumstances…its tricky game to play presently, one which we will all continue to ponder until a clearer idea of who we have takes shape.
still, it’s an intriguing case to think lol. anyway Im totally against the idea of Sandro plays LW, if we’re going with 4-3-3, then it should be an established LW. And I don’t think Mandzu will be happy flattening his ass on the bench lol.
Ahhh..Yulio…I was adopting a more playful than serious stance with such a suggestion. Although I wouldn’t be against seeing Sandro as an ortthodox winger. He has the tricks, the pace and the quality. Still, better used as a wing back. Yet wasted as a fullback, unless given licence to bomb forward.
I bet he’ll wander forward even if Allegri plays him as LB lol. If we can pay Madrid 25M for Morata, I’ll gladly play him as LW, he has what it takes to be a superb winger, what do you think ?
He can fill in easily for Dybala, being Juve’s secondary striker. But he can also fill in for Cuadrado at RB. If Cuadrado can play that position in 3-5-2, Berardi should be able to do it too.
it would be such a waaaastteeee, but yeah never say never, Florenzi and Bernardeschi have been superb
Very different kind of players, Vince! Dybala loves the ball at his feet a lot more than Berardi. he is also far quicker and delights in playing through the central channels, taking on players. From what I have seen of Berardi, he is not amazingly comfortable driving at opponents with the ball at his feet, preferring to use swiftness of thought and intelligent passing to get past opponents. Dybala is a natural born dribbler which is a major part of his blossoming talent and what makes him so exciting to watch. Pogba is the other top drawer dribbler in the squad. Sandro is fine and Cuadrado has just pace and the one move used repeatedly, a high speed one trick pony. It is often the talented flair merchants on the ball who can beat players one on one, sometimes multiple players, who decide tight games.
Morata is not really a natural dribbler, his special talents are more about turning exceptionally quickly then lightning fast movement into space and towards goal.
Would be good to replace that searing pace now he is closer than ever before to leaving. It will affect the team especially with Cuadrado’s swift boots also leaving the ranks.
Thanks for the good read Mr. Poet, I agree with most of it, especially on the case of Morata.
I also think he will go back to Madrid, and I would go as far as saying that Juve would pause any kind of business with Madrid until they can treat players like humans and not commodities, and equally important… to buy ourselves sometime to reach a better economic status.
As for the midfielders, personally I believe we’ve to cash in on Pereyra, Asamoah, and Hernanes, while they still have some economic value; I’d keep Sturaro… because he has age on his side, we got him for cheap, and he don’t mind to sit on the bench, and also being an Italian is always a plus in a club like Juventus.
On to the strikers, recently Marotta said that he’ll keep them all except those who he couldn’t, such as Morata and Cuadrado; which means we will still have Zaza in bianconero. Personally I’d just sign Berardi and be done with the strikeforce department, I think two Prima Punti in Mandzukic and Zaza are enough for us, with second strikers like Dybala and Berardi plus perhaps the new trequartista we’re going to sign.
Many people underrate Saponara, but just like De Sciglio, he is Allegris men. He’s been feeding and serving players like Maccarone and Pucciarelli week in and week out and still manage to look great, imagine if he’s playing behind our strike force… yummy passes guaranteed!
Anyways, I, as many other, am waiting for your next piece, keep it up Mister Poet.
Regards,
Linez
Always a pleasure to find you emerging from the shadows, my friend and I hope all is splendid in your realm. We must lock horns on the state of the world in the near future, but for now, onto Juve…
The more I write of the strikers situation, the more it bothers me and I am in total agreement in terms of Morata goes, keep Zaza and pick up Berardi. It seems likely we will not move away from the 3-5-2, or if we do, it will be a 4-3-3 hybrid. What we need is a CM to replace Claudio, and potentially prove a finer fit, and a RB to back-up/challenge Lichsteiner.
I am also with you regarding Saponara and De Sciglio. I like signing italians, its our tradition and the Empoli man has established talent with more to come in the right circumstances. The fullback is versatile and since I find Allegri a brilliant manager for our club, I will place my trust in him if young Mattia is his preferred choice.
Other than which we need little alteration. Though I believe there will be far more.
I hadn’t really considered losing Asamoah, but we have moved on without him and he now seems surplus to requirements. If Chelsea’s interest is real, I would be excited to see Matic come in exchange.
The trequartista hunt is becoming close to an urban myth!
I am glad I came across your post for it has added strength to the winds of my sails set for the land of smaller improvements than even myself has suggested. Though I would very much like to see the big Serb appear and feel that position is integral to our fortunes, with nobody else in the squad a natural fit. I equally hope that Mandragora comes in. Yet we cannot get too carried away with youth. We need a core of experience running through the team. Which is why Mandzukic will remain, and Khedira and if money is an issue, our targets are hedging their bets, it would not surprise me at all to see Saponara come in, and why not eh? As you rightly mentioned, his creativity will do more damage when surrounded by players of similar calibre on the ball.
I’ll try get my tactical pondering flooding your screen in the ear future.
Cheers, as always, for your worthy contribution.
TGP
Very well thought-out article.
In defence we need 2 back-ups for our current 3, we have got Rugani & if we secure Benatia, I think we are good in that department.
The Evra/Sandro left back combination is ideal, and we should look to secure an RB to assist the Machine Lichsteiner, maybe Vrsaljko?
I agree with you, Pogba wants to deliver the CL & win Top player award before he departs – if he departs!
Id hate to see Asamoah leave, but I have a feeling Conte wants him at Chelsea, and in return Juve should opt for Matic NOT Oscar (never was a fan of him).
Claudio’s commitment to the club is irreplacable, however his work rate and talent can be found in Gomes, and I believe mgmt should prioritise the Valencia man.
Morata has a natural alliance to RM, however he knows he will be 2nd or 3rd choice for at least another couple of years, so I dont see him leaving us this summer – this guy is a beast in the making. His pace, power and trickery seem to come natural to him, Im a big fan of Morata and I really do hope he stays.
Our biggest challenge would be to sing a palymaker, so we can switch from a 3-5-2 to a 4-3-3 when needed. Seems like Isco is out of the picture, Back in for Gotze? (swap him with Coman). Not too sure about James Rodriguez, but through the years I have come to a conviction that players shine better when they dont play for Real Madrid!
my idea formation for next year would be
Buffon
Barzagil/Rugani – Bonucci – Chiellini/Benatia
Lichsteiner/Vrsaljko – Gomes/Claudio – Khedira/Matic – Pogba/Asamoah – Sandro/Evra
Morata/Mandzu – Dybala/Berardi OR Gotze
Now thats a strong team 🙂
I would applaud Asamoah for Matic, yet cannot help but assume that someone at Chelsea has more sense.
The best attacking midfielders in the premier league would not include Oscar, despite my acceptance that we have been eager for his signature for a while now. Coutinho, Payet, Eriksen, Ozil and De Bruyne. None of whom we can afford. I’d be happy with Oscar, yet part of that is due to the player sharing a name with my beloved hellhound!
I doubt we will get Sime…more likely De Sciglio. Ancelotti may well retain Gotze.
Many thanks for your input and what a wonderful moniker!
Keep it coming, comrade.
TGP
We are on very good terms with West Ham though chap (as is Man Utd’s bus repair shop 🙂 ), what with the sale of Ogbonna to them last year and the planned friendly match to open the Olympic Stadium. As Wet Ham want Zaza (we hear) and they paid little or nowt for Payet we could have him quite easily I feel – doubt they would want much beyond a double up of the 17m they paid for him – although RM and Barca may want him too. But do we want him @ 29 years old? He’s is a very late bloomer. Perhaps too late…. The others you are spot on, the t/fer fees that would be demanded would be silly money for what in all cases except DeBruyne are not world class talents. They are good players in a some moments (Ozil can be very very good), but far too inconsistent all of them. Not game changers week in / out. DeBruyne has been great since his return from injury (with exception of CL S/F).
One of the funniest typo’s ever there friend, Wet Ham.
On topic, I wouldnt really chase or hope for Payet.
Maybe we should give Pjanic or Hamsik another shot for that damn trequartista role?
Neither one is a likely arrival, but they would be good deals..
Hola DB, I was merely stating the attacking midfielders who were well above oscar in terms of consistency and quality this season. The only two I would be gloriously happy to see us signing are Eriksen and De Bruyne, the latter of which is already world class and the former of huge potential. No chance on signing either.
Sullivan’s comments were beyond idiotic as he defended the attack on the United bus. Probably the InterCity crowd wanting to make one final plea for attention, which may be trickier up the road. Sad story for many in the area…The public purse has yet again been skanked, with big business profiting, in this case West Ham.
Not sure I would go as far as suggesting any special kinship. We sold them a failed player and agreed to a friendly in London which will be packed to the rafters.
News reports (believe them or not) saying Ancelotti’s given the green light for Gotze to go.
Which is…interesting news. Yet what of his price? I believe they signed him for 35m, and as he hasn’t been playing regularly, perhaps we could pick him up for the same or less. Yet he is young, is a world cup winner, even scored the winner as I sat at Alexanderplatz in Berlin in 2014 and felt the earth move as the natives went wild with joy and I nourished my belly with a toothsome schwadenaxen.
Fantastic read once again 🙂 With rumours of a 25mill move for Asamoah to Chelsea, perhaps there could be a trade between him and Matic?
Looking forward – and dreading it at the same time – to the upcoming Mercato.
I’ll make you a fan of Matic, comrade! And if we do sign him, you will recall my delight and roar and enthusiasm for his services.
Glad you found some joy in the piece and look forward to your own next offering in turn, no doubt you have plenty of coals in the fire!
Cheers,
TGP
I have some inspiration for new things indeed! And you already have made me curious to see Matic in Bianconeri..
Götze is coming
I doubt it very much.
Makes two of us :p
he is coming 🙂
It gave me a good laugh in any case!
My phone does the same to me, translating my English to Dutch all the time, damn whoever invented auto-correct!