Juventus has officially kicked off its pre-season training program, with new coach Luciano Spalletti at the helm. The initial phase sees a roster of 28 players, combining established first-team members with emerging talents from the club's Next Gen squad, as they prepare for the upcoming season. This early assembly provides a glimpse into the team's composition and initial strategies under Spalletti's guidance, even as several high-profile players are yet to join.
The current training group reflects a mix of players eager to prove themselves and those whose future roles are still being determined. While some core players are already integrating into the new system, a significant portion of the squad remains on extended leave after their international commitments. This staggered return presents both challenges and opportunities for the coaching staff to assess individual fitness and develop team chemistry from the ground up, setting the foundation for a successful campaign.
Initial Pre-Season Roster and Absences
Juventus has started its pre-season with a diverse group of 28 players, including 22 first-team professionals and six promising individuals from the Next Gen academy. This early training period is crucial for setting the tone for the new season under Luciano Spalletti's leadership, allowing him to begin implementing his tactical vision and evaluate the fitness levels of his available squad members. The inclusion of young talent underscores the club's commitment to youth development and providing opportunities for future stars.
Despite the commencement of training, six key first-team players are currently absent, having been granted extended breaks following their participation in the 2026 World Cup. These international players, including Bremer, Teun Koopmeiners, Weston McKennie, Francisco Conceicao, Jonathan David, and Kenan Yildiz, are expected to rejoin the squad at a later date. Their absence means that Spalletti must initially work with a partial squad, focusing on foundational drills and integrating new signings and academy prospects, while strategically planning for the full squad's eventual cohesion.
Squad Composition and Future Prospects
The 22 first-team players participating in the initial pre-season training present a varied landscape, encompassing both established figures central to Spalletti's plans, such as Pierre Kalulu, Manuel Locatelli, and new acquisition Jeff Ekhator, and those whose long-term futures with the club are uncertain. Players like Michele Di Gregorio, Lois Openda, and Edon Zhegrova are part of this group, with their roles potentially evolving as the transfer window progresses and the coach's selections solidify. The training camp will be a critical period for these players to demonstrate their value and secure their places in the squad.
Beyond the core first-team, Juventus has also integrated six players from its Next Gen squad: Pedro Felipe, Javier Gil Puche, Shane van Aarle, Augusto Owusu, Arman Durmisi, and Justin Odoavwoduo. This strategic move aims to expose these young talents to the demands of senior football and provide them with invaluable experience alongside seasoned professionals. Simultaneously, several players, including Arthur Melo, Douglas Luiz, and Daniele Rugani, are expected to move on through loans or permanent transfers, reflecting the club's ongoing squad restructuring and strategic planning for the upcoming competitive season.
