Juventus Faces a Crucial Crossroad as Champions League Dreams Hang in the Balance
The famed Old Lady of Italian football finds herself grappling with a troubling spell, with the coveted fourth place now hanging by a thread. With the spectre of poor results looming large, every player at Juventus comes under the microscope. Thiago Motta's managerial position is hanging by a thread, and it’s not just him who may face the axe before the season wraps up.
The club's ownership, likely to take a step back for evaluation, will undoubtedly scrutinise the management fabric, particularly focusing on sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli. At the Continassa training ground, a crisis unit has mobilised as the Bianconeri aim to claw their way back into Champions League contention in the final nine matches. Securing a spot in Europe’s elite competition is not just about glory; it’s fundamental in laying the groundwork for the next season, as well as providing clarity on who will steer the ship from the touchline.
Juve set their sights on qualification for the Champions League at the dawn of the last summer but now toils in fifth place after suffering a double whammy in the league. Failing to secure that fourth spot would translate into a staggering €100 million loss, forcing the club into a harsh reassessment of their squad. Several key figures may find themselves heading for the exit if their mission falters.
Prominent among those at risk is Kenan Yildiz, once untouchable amidst Juventus’ plans, now uncertain without the Champions League banner; his sale could net around €70 million. Another potential cash cow is Cambiaso, who was nearly off to Manchester City in January and could be again pursued by Guardiola this summer for a substantial fee. The likes of Nico Gonzalez and Douglas Luiz, both big summer signings at €33 million and €51 million respectively, also face uncertain futures.
Additionally, the Juventus youth ranks boast Mbangula, a star on the rise valued around €20 million, alongside the inevitable departure of Dusan Vlahovic, who could see the club gain around €25-30 million from his sale.
All these factors present a stark picture for Juventus, whose ambitions are now intertwined with the life-or-death struggle for Champions League qualification.
``` --- *Resource: "https://www.calciomercato.it/2025/03/23/juventus-senza-champions-via-i-big-cessioni-da-oltre-250-milioni/"*
