Pundit thinks too many foreigners are hurting Juventus | OneFootball

Juventus started their match against Sassuolo with no outfield player of Italian origin, setting an unwanted record for a club that remains a symbol of Italian football.

In recent seasons, Juventus have reduced their reliance on Italian players, and they have also lost some of their previous influence in terms of supplying stars to the senior Azzurri team.

In the summer of 2025, Juventus did not sign a single player from an Italian club. Most of their new arrivals this season are also foreigners, allowing them to field a starting XI with no Italian outfield player.

Juventus continue to rely on foreigners

Juventus are focused on signing the best players available to help them achieve results, meaning they do not necessarily have to wait for an Italian talent to emerge. However, their foreign players have not always performed as hoped, which has contributed to the debate surrounding the club’s lack of Italian stars.

The Bianconeri have traditionally been closely associated with Italian football, making the current situation particularly notable. Their approach has changed significantly, and the latest starting XI provided another clear example of that shift.

There is little indication that Juventus intend to change their recruitment strategy. The club appears committed to pursuing players who can improve the team, regardless of their nationality, even if that means having fewer Italian players in prominent roles.

Randal Kolo Muani signing (Juventus.com)

Rampulla voices his concern

Michelangelo Rampulla has watched the team struggle and expressed his disappointment with the composition of the squad. Speaking via Calciomercato, he said:

“I saw a low-key team and seeing a lot of foreigners on the pitch. With only the Italian goalkeeper, I felt so sorry for Juve; they’re not a square team. Juve was once based on a group of talented Italian players, but today they take on many foreigners who, however, do harm on the pitch.”

Rampulla highlights the concerns surrounding Juventus’ current identity and recruitment policy. While the club may continue prioritising results and available talent, the absence of Italian outfield players from the starting XI has underlined how much their squad has changed.