Igor Tudor is set to lead Juventus in their bid for a Champions League spot, starting with a crucial match against Genoa on Saturday. With Juventus sitting just outside Italy’s top four, one point away from securing a place in the competition, Tudor has been brought in to steer the “Old Lady” back to prominence. This comes after the dismissal of Thiago Motta during the international break.
Tudor, who had a successful playing career at Juventus, has been appointed until the end of the season. His task is clear: return the club to where they belong in European football. However, rumors are swirling about a bigger name potentially taking over next season, with candidates such as Antonio Conte, Roberto Mancini, and Gian Piero Gasperini all in the mix.
Tudor’s Last Success Could Be Good News for Juventus
Although Tudor’s coaching career has been relatively modest, he has a strong track record as a caretaker coach. His most recent role at Lazio saw him take over mid-season and secure an impressive 18 points from nine matches. Juventus will be hoping that Tudor can work his magic again, especially with the competition for Champions League spots intensifying.
Napoli and AC Milan Face Off in Key Title Battle
While Juventus focuses on securing a top-four finish, the Serie A title race is heating up. Napoli will host AC Milan on Sunday, a clash that could influence the race for the Scudetto. Napoli has struggled since the end of January, picking up just eight points, and now sit three points behind leaders Inter Milan. Meanwhile, Milan has been in turmoil this season but still has a shot at the Champions League places.
Inter Milan’s Title Defense Under Pressure
Inter Milan, still leading the Serie A standings, will host Udinese on Sunday. With a busy month ahead, including a crucial Champions League quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich, Inter will need to maintain their form. Manager Simone Inzaghi faces a challenge with injuries to key players, including Lautaro Martinez and Denzel Dumfries. However, Federico Dimarco has recovered and could play an important role in their title defense.
Atalanta and Fiorentina Set for an Exciting Clash
Atalanta, six points behind third-placed Milan, will face Fiorentina in a match that promises plenty of action. Both teams will be missing key players—Atalanta’s coach Gasperini is suspended, and Fiorentina will be without midfield lynchpin Ederson.
Player to Watch: Tijjani Reijnders
Milan’s midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing season. The 26-year-old has scored 13 goals and provided three assists, making him a key player in Milan’s hopes of securing a Champions League spot. Reijnders’ performances have earned him praise, especially after a thrilling Nations League quarter-final against Spain.
Key Stats to Keep an Eye On:
- Juventus has conceded 7 goals in their last two fixtures against Atalanta and Fiorentina.
- Only six points separate Bologna (4th place) from Milan in the Champions League race.
Serie A Weekend Fixtures (All times in GMT):
Saturday
- Como v Empoli (1400)
- Venezia v Bologna (1400)
- Juventus v Genoa (1700)
- Lecce v Roma (1945)
Sunday
- Cagliari v Monza (1030)
- Fiorentina v Atalanta (1300)
- Inter Milan v Udinese (1600)
- Napoli v AC Milan (1845)
Monday
- Verona v Parma (1630)
- Lazio v Torino (1845)
