Juventus will welcome a key defensive reinforcement as Pierre Kalulu returns from injury for their Serie A clash against Hellas Verona.
However, manager Thiago Motta will still be without several important players as the Bianconeri aim to strengthen their push for a Champions League spot.
Kalulu set for return
Kalulu has been sidelined for several weeks due to injury but has now completed his rehabilitation and is back in contention.
Speaking ahead of the match, Thiago Motta expressed his delight at having the French defender available again.
“Kalulu is back, and I’m very happy about it. He is a player who has given us a lot both on and off the pitch,” said the Juventus manager.
Kalulu, currently on loan from AC Milan, is expected to provide a defensive boost as Juventus look to secure all three points at home.
His return could be particularly crucial given the club’s recent struggles in maintaining a solid backline.
Injury concerns persist for Juventus
While Kalulu’s return is a positive development, Juventus will still be missing several key players.
Bremer, Douglas Luiz, Arkadiusz Milik, Francisco Conceição, Juan Cabal, Renato Veiga, and Nicolo Savona are all unavailable for the fixture due to injuries.
“Tomorrow, there will be no Bremer, Cabal, Milik, Conceição, Douglas Luiz, Renato Veiga, and Savona,” Motta confirmed during his pre-match press conference.
The absence of Bremer and Milik, in particular, will be felt, as both have played pivotal roles this season.
Meanwhile, Conceição’s flexor muscle strain rules him out of what could have been a key opportunity to showcase his talent.
Juventus eyeing Champions League spot
Juventus heads into this fixture knowing that a win is essential to keep their top-four hopes alive.
They have endured a mixed run of form, including a disappointing early exit from the Champions League, adding further pressure to their domestic campaign.
A strong performance against Hellas Verona, who are currently battling relegation, would help Juventus regain momentum as they continue their push for a return to Europe’s elite competition.
Kick-off is scheduled for 19:45 GMT at the Allianz Stadium, where the Bianconeri will look to secure a much-needed victory.
