Andrea Cambiaso, the subject of intense transfer speculation linking him to a Premier League move, is expected to be absent from the Juventus squad for their upcoming match. The full-back had been sidelined with a persistent ankle issue, causing him to miss the team’s recent midweek defeat.
However, Juventus face a defensive challenge as first-choice centre-back Pierre Kalulu is unavailable due to a muscular injury. To address this gap, the team may turn to new signing Renato Veiga or opt to reposition midfielder Manuel Locatelli in the back four.
In the attacking department, Randal Kolo Muani, fresh from scoring against Napoli, is now eligible to play after missing the Benfica match. He has the opportunity to make history by becoming the first player since Carlos Tevez in 2013 to score in his first two league games for Juventus. This development might see top scorer Dusan Vlahovic relegated to the bench.
On the opposing side, Empoli’s main offensive threat comes from Sebastiano Esposito, who has demonstrated impressive form by scoring in each of his last four away fixtures.
Empoli’s squad faces several challenges. Ola Solbakken joins a list of long-term absentees including Pietro Pellegri, Nicolas Haas, Saba Sazonov, and Tyronne Ebuehi. Manager Davide Nicola must also contend with the suspensions of Alberto Grassi and Giuseppe Pezzella. Adding to their concerns, key defender Mattia Viti is grappling with an adductor problem, potentially further weakening their defensive lineup.
Juventus (4-2-3-1): Perin; Savona, Gatti, Veiga, Weah; Locatelli, Thuram; Yildiz, Koopmeiners, Gonzalez; Kolo Muani
Empoli (3-4-2-1): Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, De Sciglio; Gyasi, Henderson, Anjorin, Cacace; Fazzini, Esposito; Colombo
