As Juventus prepare to face PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of their Champions League playoff, manager Thiago Motta is considering significant changes to his midfield lineup. The Italian giants are coming off a match against Como where, for only the second time this season, they fielded an unchanged starting eleven. However, it appears unlikely that this consistency will continue into Tuesday’s crucial European fixture.
Gazzetta dello Sport report that Motta’s tactical considerations were evident in Friday’s match, where he made a notable double substitution in midfield. The usually indispensable duo of Manuel Locatelli and Teun Koopmeiners were withdrawn, making way for Khephren Thuram and Douglas Luiz. This mid-game adjustment has sparked speculation about potential changes to the starting lineup against PSV.
Reports suggest that Thuram and Luiz are strong contenders to start the match. The rationale behind this potential shift is the anticipated high-intensity nature of the game against the Dutch side. There are concerns that players who begin the match already fatigued might struggle to maintain the required tempo throughout the encounter.
In addition to the midfield reshuffle, Francisco Conceicao could be in line for a return to the starting lineup on the right flank. The Portuguese winger has been on the bench for the past two matches, but his fresh legs and attacking prowess might be crucial against PSV’s defence.
