Juventus, Locatelli’s revenge: from unwanted to absolute leader
Juventus beat Benfica mathematically clinching a pass to the Champions League play-offs. Thuram was voted MVP of the match but, according to many fans and insiders, particularly Del Piero, the award should have gone to Locatelli. The Juventus captain played a sumptuous match, immolating himself for the cause on more than one occasion and proving to be a true leader, guiding his teammates through every difficulty.
Spalletti, a few minutes from the end of the match, substituted him to give him a chance to take the applause, heartfelt, of the Allianz Stadium crowd. A real standing ovation that almost surprised Locatelli himself. Having arrived at Juventus in 2021, he has struggled a lot to establish himself in bianconero, so much so that, on several occasions, he has been harshly criticized and even “invited” to leave the club. Also thanks to Spalletti’s arrival, the wind has changed and Locatelli has become a key man for the Old Lady.
“Yes, it was a special moment for me because, at times, not only did I not convince Capello (in the studio and very pleased with the performance of the Bianconeri captain, ed) but I did not convince the fans either. So I am very very happy for, for what we are experiencing. I really thank for the compliments, it was a special moment for me. I feel good I think we are on the right path, we are playing well we have an enthusiasm that we have to carry and so we have to continue like this” the words of Locatelli himself to Sky.
Also swept away the doubts of those who thought that, with Spalletti on the bench, Locatelli might lose space, given his past in the national team. Instead, the Tuscan coach has realized that someone like Locatelli can give so much, especially on a mental level, to this team that needs leaders.
The feeling is that, in his fifth year in bianconero, Locatelli has achieved his goal, which is to be well-liked by Juventus fans. At 28, he has reached maturity and realized that he has what it takes to wear the heavy and prestigious Bianconeri jersey.
