Juventus will finish the Serie A season without Pierre Kalulu after the French defender was handed a two-match suspension following his dismissal in Saturday’s fixture against Lazio.
Kalulu received a straight red card in the second half of the match for striking Lazio striker Taty Castellanos in the back during a moment of pressure near Juventus’ defensive third.
The incident, which occurred shortly after a back pass to Kalulu, was deemed intentional and excessive by match officials, prompting immediate disciplinary action.
The 23-year-old’s reaction, described by observers as both rash and unnecessary, has brought a premature end to his campaign. As a result, he will miss Juventus’ final two league matches against Udinese and Venezia—fixtures crucial to the club’s pursuit of a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.
The disciplinary ruling was confirmed by Serie A authorities on Monday, effectively sidelining Kalulu during one of the most pivotal moments of Juventus’ season.
The club, currently locked in a tightly contested battle for European spots, now faces the challenge of managing their defensive line without one of their key options.
Kalulu, who joined Juventus from AC Milan, has struggled to find consistent form this season amid injury setbacks and intense competition for places. Saturday’s red card only adds to a turbulent campaign, and questions are already being raised about his long-term future in Turin.
The timing of the suspension could not be worse for manager Massimiliano Allegri, whose side is under pressure to secure vital points in the closing weeks of the season.
With defensive options already stretched, Kalulu’s absence could force a reshuffle in the backline as Juventus attempt to hold their ground in the league standings.
Although Juventus have not publicly commented on the incident or the suspension, sources close to the club suggest that internal discussions are underway regarding Kalulu’s future role in the squad.
With the summer transfer window approaching, his place in Allegri’s long-term plans may now be under review.
Kalulu’s conduct during the Lazio match has drawn criticism from sections of the Italian media, who have questioned the defender’s composure and discipline at a crucial stage of the season.
The reaction, viewed as avoidable, came at a time when Juventus needed focus and stability in their defensive unit.
As Juventus prepares for its final matches without him, the spotlight will remain firmly on how the team adapts in his absence—and whether this incident will have lasting repercussions beyond the current campaign.
For Kalulu, the suspension not only curtails his season but potentially casts a shadow over his Juventus future.
The coming weeks may prove decisive in determining whether the Frenchman remains part of the club’s plans heading into next season, or whether a summer departure becomes increasingly likely.
