Champions League Final Blow: Chiellini Out, Suarez Rematch Off the Table
The much-anticipated reunion between Giorgio Chiellini and Luis Suarez in the Champions League final will not take place. The Italian defender has been ruled out of the showdown between Juventus and FC Barcelona due to a calf injury sustained during training on Wednesday.
Medical tests conducted Thursday confirmed the severity of the injury, forcing Chiellini to withdraw from the final—a major setback for Juventus, who now lose a key pillar in their defensive setup.
In Chiellini’s absence, Andrea Barzagli is expected to step in alongside Leonardo Bonucci. The 34-year-old Barzagli has made 5 appearances in the Champions League this season and brings considerable experience, but his inclusion also changes the dynamic of Juve’s backline.
For fans and pundits alike, the injury also puts to rest the narrative of a heated on-field reunion between Suarez and Chiellini, stemming from the infamous biting incident during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
