Juventus exposed: why defence is the real transfer priority | OneFootball

Juventus endured a bruising run of results in their recent fixtures, bringing lingering questions about both ends of the pitch into sharp focus, according to Tutto Juve, Bianconera News, and analysis by Claudio Onofri on Radio Bianconera. The Bianconeri’s recent clash with Real Madrid again saw them punished by Gonzalo Garcia, whose goal decided yet another test for Igor Tudor’s side. The Real forward’s decisive strike, which also drew praise on social media from ex-Madrid striker Karim Benzema, further highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that have become all too familiar for this Juventus team.

Alongside the Real setback, Juventus’s Club World Cup exit underscored the magnitude of the work ahead. Claudio Onofri, reflecting on the campaign, pointed directly to the five goals conceded to Manchester City as evidence that the back line is in need of a rethink: “In the Club World Cup, Juventus had too many problems at the back. The five goals against City prove this area must be strengthened if the club wants to return to the top.”

Despite individual displays—Daniele Rugani earned plaudits for his reliability against Madrid and is reportedly committed to staying at Juventus amid interest from Italy and abroad, as reported by Bianconera News—the broader defensive structure has left observers unconvinced. Rumors of a potential return for Matthijs de Ligt underscore the desire for a true leader at the back.

Offensively, Juventus continue to search for answers and upgrades. The impact and potential of Dusan Vlahovic remain under debate, with Onofri remarking: “Vlahovic has the potential to offer much more than he’s shown so far.” There is an evident push to refresh the attack: new signings like Jonathan David are incoming, and the club reportedly has an eye on other names such as Victor Osimhen, who, according to Onofri, “would strengthen the attack significantly.” The tactical outlook under Tudor has seen a 3-4-2-1 shape become standard, and combinations featuring David and Yildiz behind a central forward are being floated as a way to spark new life up front.

Fatigue has also played its part, following a stressful and demanding campaign across competitions. Wing-back Andrea Cambiaso echoed this in comments to Corriere di Torino, noting: “It’s been a season that was physically and mentally exhausting. It’s right to take time to rest and recharge.”

While individual efforts, isolated moments of resilience, and transfer rumors offer some hope, recent performances and tournament exits have left little doubt about what comes next for Juventus. The transfer window will likely see further tweaking, and both defensive cohesion and attacking sharpness will be at the top of the agenda as the club looks to re-establish its credentials domestically and in Europe.

(Sources: Tutto Juve, Bianconera News, Radio Bianconera)

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