Juventus coach Igor Tudor during a training session. Image courtesy of Gazzetta.it
As the 2025/2026 Serie A season unfurls, the eternal drama of Italian football finds its stage set once more for the Derby d`Italia. Juventus, under the stewardship of Igor Tudor, is gearing up for a clash against Inter Milan that, by all accounts, promises to be anything but trivial. In a pre-match press conference brimming with both candor and calculated ambiguity, Tudor laid bare his thoughts, painting a picture of strategic confidence and subtle mind games.
The Psychological Offensive: Praising the Adversary, Elevating the Stakes
Tudor, known for his direct approach, didn`t shy away from a bold declaration: “Inter has the strongest squad in Italy.” This statement, coming from the opposing coach ahead of such a monumental fixture, is a classic move in football`s psychological chess. Is it genuine praise, a subtle attempt to shift pressure onto the rivals, or perhaps a bit of both? One can almost hear the gears turning in the minds of Inter`s players and coaching staff. Yet, he quickly tempered expectations regarding the match`s broader significance:
“Is the derby decisive? No, it`s just a stage.”
A pragmatic viewpoint for a fixture often burdened by hyperbolic narratives. For Tudor, the unique allure of the Derby d`Italia provides its own intrinsic motivation. “The match doesn`t need special stimuli,” he observed, “it will be harder to find them in the other 37 games.” A coach`s dream, perhaps, to have a squad naturally primed for battle, saving the motivational speeches for a rainy Tuesday night away at a relegation-threatened side. His personal feelings ahead of the encounter? “Very positive, very…” he mused, a sentiment that echoed a quiet confidence rather than boisterous bravado.
Tactical Nuances and Squad Evolution
Juventus, under Tudor, is clearly a work in progress, but one with a defined trajectory. The Croatian coach offered glimpses into his tactical playbook and satisfaction with the current squad dynamics.
Midfield and Attack: New Faces, Evolving Roles
The midfield, often the engine room of any successful side, appears to be a focal point. Teun Koopmeiners, a name frequently linked with crucial roles, is touted as a strong candidate for an attacking midfield position. Upfront, the approach is less about revolution and more about careful integration.
The discussion around new forward Openda was particularly telling. Tudor acknowledged his need for space, implying a potential shift in attacking dynamics. “Openda needs spaces, from the right and left, but spaces: until now we have played in a certain way, with him we will have to do something new.” This suggests a willingness to adapt the team`s structure to maximize individual talent, a hallmark of effective coaching.
And what of Dusan Vlahovic, the spearhead of the attack? Tudor`s assessment was unequivocal and delivered with a smile: “How do I see him? He`s never been better in his career.” High praise indeed, intended perhaps to bolster the striker`s confidence and remind observers of his formidable capabilities. The plan for the match suggests a fluid attack: “We start with David as a starter, then a substitution.” The idea of playing with two strikers, a configuration that often excites fans, is on the horizon but requires patience: “The two strikers? We are playing football in a certain way, it takes time,” Tudor explained.
The Curious Case of the “Six Points”
One of the more intriguing remarks from Tudor was the assertion that Juventus needs “to invert a course of six points in two games.” On the surface, this sounds like a manager seeking to rectify a negative trend. However, given Juventus’s seemingly positive start to the season (two wins, clean sheets), the phrase takes on a rather delightful layer of managerial paradox. Perhaps it`s a subtle nod to the aesthetic quality of play, or a deep tactical introspection that transcends mere results. Or, more ironically, it`s the classic coach`s lament: “We won, but we could have won better.” Regardless, it certainly keeps the football pundits guessing.
Squad Depth and Market Satisfaction
When pressed on the transfer market, Tudor expressed complete contentment: “I was happy before and I am happy now with the squad: the new players will give us a great hand.” This vote of confidence in his roster suggests a belief in the depth and quality assembled, reinforcing the idea that Juventus has the tools to compete at the highest level, even against a rival he himself deemed to have Italy`s strongest squad.
The Timeless Rivalry and Fan Fervor
The Derby d`Italia is more than just a football match; it`s a cultural phenomenon, a battle for bragging rights that ignites passionate debates across Italy. From fervent discussions about squad strengths and managerial choices to playful jabs and statistical historical precedents, the fans` engagement mirrors the intensity on the pitch. Whether it’s questions of tactical modules, player longevity, or perceived refereeing biases, the fixture acts as a crucible for opinion, demonstrating that in Italian football, the conversation rarely ends at the final whistle.
As Juventus prepares for this pivotal “stage,” the football world watches. Tudor’s calculated words and strategic outlook suggest a team ready not just for the points, but for the profound psychological and tactical challenge that defines the Derby d`Italia. This encounter is not merely about three points; it`s about making a statement, cementing credibility, and setting the tone for what promises to be a captivating Serie A season.
