Juventus Predicted XI against Sampdoria: A must-win game

LB Alex Sandro

Alex Sandro is one of a number of defenders who needs to step up his game against Sampdoria. He’s not a bad player by any means, but he hasn’t shown his quality in recent weeks since returning from an injury. His return got off to a nightmare start with his error against Milan, and he’s continued to struggle since. Here’s to hoping he has a good game vs. Sampdoria.

CB Leonardo Bonucci

Leonardo Bonucci will be back after serving a suspension, and while he hasn’t defended well either, he’s a sure-fire upgrade over Daniele Rugani. Whereas Rugani doesn’t look like he belongs at Juventus, Bonucci is at least usually doing the right thing. The experienced center back’s issue is that he keeps making terrible mistakes, especially when it comes to committing cheap fouls.

CB Matthijs de Ligt

Easily the best defensive player on the Bianconeri, Matthijs de Ligt scored one of the best goals you’ll ever see a center back score last time out. It’s unfortunate he was on the receiving end of Seko Fofana’s excellent solo goal, but there’s a reason why he was the only person back there defending. De Ligt is one of the few players working hard on defense.

RB Juan Cuadrado

Count Juan Cuadrado among those few. Cuadrado is perhaps Juve’s most underrated players, as fans around Europe don’t necessarily give the Colombian star his fair due. A strong defensive player and an excellent attacking influencer, Cuadrado is the kind of guy who can facilitate play on the right and create chances for others. If only he had a better right winger to link up with.