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Juventus’ 2021/22 predicted XI after the summer transfer window

By James Cormack

TURIN, ITALY - AUGUST 28: Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri issues instructions to his players during the Serie A match between Juventus and Empoli FC at on August 28, 2021 in Turin, . (Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY - AUGUST 28: Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri issues instructions to his players during the Serie A match between Juventus and Empoli FC at on August 28, 2021 in Turin, . (Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images) /
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Defenders

Matthijs de Ligt’s importance to this Juventus team is untold. (Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Matthijs de Ligt’s importance to this Juventus team is untold. (Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images) /

Juan Cuadrado (RB) – The Colombian’s been deployed higher upfield to start the season, but with a plethora of options now at Allegri’s disposal in more advanced areas, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Cuadrado drop back into defence. Nevertheless, the speedy veteran would still be given the freedom to maraud into the attacking third as Juventus would shift to an asymmetric possession system. Danilo is a fine backup option as well.

Matthijs de Ligt (CB) – There’s huge pressure on de Ligt to stay fit for the vast majority of 2021/22 otherwise Juve could be in a little bit of bother. The Dutchman is the club’s best defender and has the potential to be the leader of this defence throughout the 2020s. Expect him to rack up a serious amount of minutes this term if he stays injury-free.

Leonardo Bonucci/Giorgio Chiellini (CB) – We couldn’t split the veteran pair as it’s clear what Allegri’s plan is in this regard. Bonucci and Chiellini will be rotated as de Ligt’s partners in a bid to manage their respective workloads and ensure they can start 38 Serie A games between them. Otherwise, Juventini will be treated to seeing Daniele Rugani a little more than they’d like. God, why oh why did they get rid of Merih Demiral!

Alex Sandro (LB) – The Brazilian’s spot at left-back is far from secure, as dependable as he is. Sandro’s a player who’ll certainly frustrate Juve supporters, as he did in the Empoli defeat. The 30-year-old distinctly lacks the thrust and dynamism he was once blessed with – when he was one of Europe’s best at his position. The versatile Mattia De Sciglio and dynamic Luca Pellegrini provide ample cover and we could see some claims for the latter to earn a starting berth should Sandro’s conservatism continue to stifle the Bianconeri.