Luciano Spalletti wants Juventus to become tougher, more decisive and less predictable. Ahead of the Europa League clash against Celta Vigo, the Bianconeri coach hinted at changes to his starting lineup, singled out Federico Gatti and Nick Woltemade, and highlighted a problem his team must address: a lack of ruthlessness in moments when they have the opportunity to take control of a match.
Spalletti also discussed Juventus’ European ambitions, tactical flexibility and previous interest in Oscar Mingueza. He addressed his suspension following the final stages of the match against Cagliari, rejecting claims that a slap had been involved in the incident.
Juventus Must Recognize the Moment: “We Are Not Ruthless Enough”
One of Spalletti’s main messages concerned his team’s ability to take advantage of opportunities when a match opens up in their favour.
“We are not ruthless enough when an opportunity arises that can change everything in a match.”
For Juventus, this means turning good performances into results more consistently. Spalletti wants greater determination in decisive situations while maintaining discipline and cohesion across all areas of the pitch.
“We have to become a solid team. We must remain compact, avoid moments when we lose our organization and leave our opponents with less and less space.”
These are the demands facing the Bianconeri ahead of their next European test: they must become more dangerous in attack and more stable when they lose possession.
Changes Are Necessary: Gatti and Woltemade Set for Opportunities
Spalletti made it clear that squad rotation will play an important role. Juventus need to make use of their full squad to maintain intensity during a demanding schedule.
“Rotation is necessary. We have a strong squad, not just eleven starters.”
He specifically highlighted two players who could be given more opportunities against Celta Vigo.
“Gatti deserves to play, and Woltemade will also get an opportunity.”
The coach did not reveal his complete starting lineup, but his comments suggested possible changes and demonstrated his confidence in players waiting for more playing time.
Woltemade Can Offer More Than Just a Presence in the Penalty Area
Speaking about the German forward, Spalletti explained that his contribution does not have to be limited to finishing chances.
“Woltemade can play as a central striker who is also capable of participating in the build-up.”
This role involves linking up with teammates and helping to construct attacking moves. By using him in this way, Juventus could gain another option for creating space and reaching dangerous positions in the final third.
Three or Four at the Back? Spalletti Wants a Juventus That Is Difficult to
Read
Spalletti linked the question of defensive formation to the need for his team to adapt to what happens on the pitch.
“Celta are well organized and capable of playing in different systems. We will have to adapt to different phases of the match and create different solutions so that our opponents cannot easily predict our game.”
The Juventus coach therefore expects tactical flexibility, timely reactions and the ability to find answers to different situations. The quality of their opponents demands complete concentration.
“Celta are a quality team, well organized both defensively and offensively.”
“We Want to Go as Far as Possible in Europe and Protect What We Are Building”
Spalletti emphasized the importance of the Europa League in Juventus’ season. He sees the competition as an opportunity to achieve results while gaining a better understanding of his squad.
“We want to go as far as possible. The Europa League allows us to get to know our team better and continue improving.”
He reinforced that ambition while discussing the challenges Juventus will face on the European stage.
“I want us to go as far as possible in Europe and protect what we are building. We have to measure ourselves against clubs with a history similar to ours.”
Was Mingueza on Juventus’ Radar? “There Was Probably Some Truth to Those Stories”
The press conference also touched on Oscar Mingueza, the Celta Vigo defender who had previously been linked with Juventus.
“There was probably some truth to the reports that we were monitoring him.”
Spalletti’s response suggests there may have been previous interest, but it does not confirm negotiations, a formal offer or plans for a transfer.
Spalletti on His Suspension: “I Accept the Decision, but the Story About a Slap Is False”
The Juventus coach also commented on his punishment following the confrontation at the end of the match against Cagliari. He said he accepted the decision while offering his own account of the incident.
“I accept the suspension. That is the decision they made. I did nothing wrong. Anyone who claimed there was a slap said something completely false.”
Spalletti thus rejected the allegations involving a slap. His immediate focus, however, is on the next challenge: using the European away fixture as an opportunity to get Juventus back to winning ways.
Source: Summary of the pre-match press conference ahead of Celta Vigo vs. Juventus.
