Juventus beats Palermo in its final preseason match in Australia. The new signings need more time to prove themselves.
Juventus defeated Palermo 2-0 at Perth’s Optus Stadium in their final scheduled friendly match in Australia. Spalletti’s team defeated Filippo Inzaghi’s squad—which will compete in Serie B next season—with goals from Kenan Yildiz and the resurgent Milik.
It was a convincing performance by the Bianconeri, who took the lead in the 44th minute thanks to the Turkish talent, who capitalized on a mistake by Sicilian goalkeeper Joronen following a previous shot by Celik, who also had a strong game. After creating and squandering numerous chances, the second goal came in the 85th minute, this time from Milik with a fine right-footed strike.
Spalletti will need to work on the chemistry in the attacking midfield between new signing Alajbegovic and Kenan Yildiz, which is still lacking: in particular, the Bosnian, who is still not in top form, didn’t want to push himself and was largely invisible. Kolo Muani also fell short, making a few defensive recoveries but squandering at least three clear scoring chances in front of goal.
The Bianconeri’s best player on the field was Conceiçao: all of the Old Lady’s most dangerous attacks originated from his feet. Now the team will return to Italy: their final preseason friendly against Juventus Next Gen is scheduled for August 17, after which things will get serious.
On the transfer front, the goalkeeper situation remains the main topic of discussion. Mattia Perin played for the Bianconeri; Michele Di Gregorio is set to be transferred abroad, and the Bianconeri management is working to finalize the Zion Suzuki deal between Wednesday and Thursday. PSG and Parma have reportedly already reached a €35 million agreement for the transfer of the Japanese goalkeeper, who would then be loaned outright to Juventus for one season. In the background, Guglielmo Vicario remains an alternative, with Tottenham open to a loan deal that includes an option to buy set at 15 million euros.
