The Supercoppa Italiana semi-final in Riyadh between Juventus and AC Milan was a tale of two halves, ultimately ending in disappointment for the Bianconeri. What seemed like a well-directed match for Juventus quickly unravelled, leading to a dramatic turnaround that gifted Sergio Conceicao a crucial victory in his debut as Milan’s manager.
Vlahovic’s Substitution: A Telling Moment
One of the most notable events of the match was Dusan Vlahovic’s substitution. The decision to remove the striker wasn’t based on future plans or physical condition, but rather on Thiago Motta’s assessment of his performance during the game. The coach was particularly displeased with Vlahovic’s lack of pressing work.
Motta defended his choice post-match, stating, “I would make the same substitutions again. You make decisions based on how you see the team performing.” He acknowledged that sometimes these decisions work out, and sometimes they don’t. However, the result ultimately serves as the final judge.
A Fragile Squad
The fact that Juventus lost their lead in just five minutes demonstrates the fragility of a team that has undergone significant changes. The absence of their captain and the impact of a major revolution within the squad raises questions about the necessity and timing of such drastic measures.
Economic Realities and Future Uncertainties
The changes at Juventus have been driven largely by economic factors. These same financial considerations led to Danilo’s departure and could potentially see Vlahovic leave Turin as well. Vlahovic’s inconsistent performances aren’t helping his case for a new contract, with discussions about his future not expected until February.
A Team in Limbo
Currently, the likelihood of reaching a new agreement with Vlahovic appears low. This situation reflects the broader state of Juventus at the moment: a team in perpetual waiting, living amidst chaos. As the club tries to navigate these turbulent waters, untangling this complex situation will be a significant challenge for those in charge.
The match in Riyadh served as a microcosm of Juventus’s current state – a team with potential but plagued by instability and uncertainty. As they move forward, the club will need to address these issues to regain their footing and return to their former glory.
