Spalletti on Kolo Muani-Woltemade switch and Juventus dressing room exchange
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti confirms that both Randal Kolo Muani and Nick Woltemade will start up front against Rennes tomorrow, while the players had a dressing room meeting where they spoke ‘at length’ after a 3-0 loss against Lazio.
Juventus host French side Rennes on Thursday in the third round of the league phase of the Europa League.
The Bianconeri have won their opening two games in the competition, but return to action days after a 3-0 home loss to Lazio in Serie A.
Juventus captain Gleison Bremer strongly criticised his teammates after that loss, and the players were given the chance to clear the air the day after.
Juventus vs. Rennes: Spalletti’s pre-match press conference
“The players are fully engaged with what we are discussing. In our latest meeting, I encouraged them to speak at length so I could gather as much information as possible and help them avoid dropping their level during matches,” Spalletti said at a press conference on Wednesday, via Sky Sport Italia.
“Their comments confirmed their honesty and professionalism. They showed a willingness to offer more and bring more variety to our play.
“I made everyone talk and remained silent, but I was glad to hear what they had to say. For me, it’s easier to continue my work,” Spalletti continued.
When Sky Sports asked Spalletti if Bremer had talked as well, he replied: “He explained his words, and the team accepted them because these players have a great relationship in the dressing room.”
Kolo Muani and Woltemade have already played simultaneously this season, but tomorrow they’ll start together for the first time: “Both will start tomorrow,” Spalletti confirmed.
Juventus have six points in two Europa League matches, but have already lost twice of their seven Serie A matches so far. How does Spalletti explain the difference in results?
“There’s no specific reason. Every match has its own history, and you have to react to what the opposition brings each time,” he said.
“You need to understand the consequences of their approach and know when to press and when to stick back. We have to be more decisive when we make a choice.
“Rennes is strong on the open field and physically,” Spalletti concluded.
“They have fast attackers and the [Ligue 1] top scorer, Lepaul. They are having a good season; they are sixth, but one point below the top spot, so they have enthusiasm, and for us it is a maturity test. We must be good at determining things with our attitude.”
