Juventus make surprise changes as Luciano Spalletti seeks response against Napoli

Juventus have made a series of changes to their starting XI and tactical approach for Sunday’s Serie A meeting with Napoli at Allianz Stadium, as Luciano Spalletti attempts to halt the club’s difficult run of form.

Spalletti has altered both the personnel and the shape of his side for the 10th-round fixture, with Juventus looking for a performance capable of restoring confidence after their latest setback.

Juventus will line up in a 4-3-2-1 formation:

Juventus: Vicario; Kalulu, Bremer, Lukumi, Cabal; McKennie, Douglas Luiz, Koopmeiners; Woltemade, Alajbegovic; Kolo Muani.

The substitutes are Pinsoglio, Neto, Gatti, Kelly, Zhegrova, Boga, Icatour, Cambiaso, Rugani and Sa’ar.

Napoli are also facing unusual circumstances under manager Massimiliano Allegri, who has been forced to make changes to his team.

Rasmus Højlund is absent because of a fever, while Amir Rrahmani has been left on the bench. Milenkovic misses the match with a muscular injury.

Napoli’s starting line-up is:

Napoli: Meret; Di Lorenzo, Marianucci, Rafa Marin, Olivera; Anguissa, De Bruyne, McTominay; Politano, Luca, Lang.

Juventus arrive at the match under mounting pressure after their defeat by Genoa increased scrutiny of both their performances and results.

The club gave the players time off in recent days before holding discussions in the dressing room. Those meetings were intended to help the squad move beyond the consequences of the latest loss and prepare properly for the challenge posed by Napoli.

Spalletti and his players now face a significant test of character, with Juventus expected to show greater determination and team spirit against strong opposition. A positive result would offer them an opportunity to rebuild belief after a disappointing spell.

The Juventus team bus reached Allianz Stadium one and a half hours before kick-off, where it was greeted by a large group of supporters.

There were no jeers as the fans welcomed the players and repeatedly sang their chants. The reception underlined that support for the club remains strong, while also making clear that supporters expect a forceful response on the pitch from both the players and the coaching staff.

The match between Juventus and Napoli is part of the 10th round of the Italian league season and will be played at Allianz Stadium on Sunday.