Spalletti: Champions absence 'burns us' ahead of Sassuolo
- Source
- Corriere dello SportTier 1
- By
- La Redazine
- Published
Key points
- Juventus manager says missing Champions League 'hurts' but will drive them to reclaim a place among Europe's elite next season
- Locatelli among seven players sidelined; McKennie and Cambiaso unlikely to recover in time, though Sarr will be available
- Spalletti backs Koopmeiners' commitment after staying in summer, praises Douglas Luiz's form and hints Woltemade could start
AI summary
Spalletti addressed Juventus's absence from the Champions League for the first time since their exclusion, describing it as a source of pain that will motivate them to return next season. Speaking ahead of Saturday's Serie A visit to Sassuolo, he rejected the notion of using injuries as an excuse, insisting the squad has sufficient depth to compete despite losing Locatelli, Yildiz, Thuram, McKennie, Boga, Cambiaso, Ekhator and Cabal.
The manager highlighted Koopmeiners' commitment to staying and praised Douglas Luiz's recent performances, saying the Brazilian has gained confidence and now moves the ball more effectively. Woltemade, recently arrived, is expected to feature against Sassuolo in some capacity.
Original headline
Spalletti prima di Sassuolo-Juve: "Non giocare la Champions ci brucia tantissimo". E la battuta su Carnevali
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