Locatelli set to miss up to six months of action following successful knee surgery | OneFootball

Manuel Locatelli has undergone successful knee surgery after suffering an injury at the weekend, and Football Italia reports that he could be sidelined for up to six months.

The midfielder is the latest Bianconeri player to suffer a serious injury that could see him miss the rest of 2026, as the unlucky Old Lady continues to lose important players. Since the start of pre-season, Juve stars have been plagued by serious injuries, and although some have returned, the problems are continuing.

Juve made some key signings in the last transfer window, but they will no doubt be worried about the injuries suffered by Locatelli, Kenan Yildiz and Khephren Thuram. The situation is particularly concerning because the Bianconeri are already dealing with limited options in midfield.

Locatelli injury adds to Juventus problems

Yildiz is expected to return within three months, while Thuram has been ruled out until 2027. It now appears Locatelli could face a similarly lengthy absence, with his injury potentially causing the biggest damage to Juventus because they already have an emergency in midfield.

The Old Lady does not have many strong options in that role, and it is an area where they have fewer players available. Their problems have been made worse by the latest injuries, while Weston McKennie is also working his way back from a minor issue.

Locatelli’s absence could therefore leave Juve particularly vulnerable in an area where they already lack depth. The Bianconeri will need to find a way to cope with their limited options while waiting for their injured players to return.

(Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Juve must find a way forward

This is not the start to the season Juve had envisioned, particularly after injuries have continued to affect their squad. Despite the setbacks, the men in black and white will have to find solutions and ensure they remain competitive until their players are available again.

Juve will now hope the situation improves, although the potential absence of Locatelli for up to six months would represent another major blow. The Bianconeri may also have to consider strengthening their midfield when the January transfer window opens.

Until then, Juventus must manage their resources carefully and do their best to cope with the growing injury list. With several players facing lengthy spells on the sidelines, the coming months could prove particularly demanding for Juve.