Zenit 0-1 Juventus: 3 takeaways as Kulusevski strikes late for the Bianconeri
Midfield competition
Amid all the late drama, Juventini were treated to Arthur’s return to competitive action on Wednesday night. On his first appearance of the season, the Brazilian replaced Manuel Locatelli as the metronome before the hour mark.
From this role, Arthur’s defensive frailties were laid bare as he was swiftly booked after his arrival. but he also showed what he can offer this Bianconeri side. He completed 22 of his 23 passes (95.7% completion rate) from 25 touches and teed up Juan Cuadrado for a half-chance with a delicate pass over the top.
In games where Juve are expected to dominate the ball, Arthur is a great option for the regista role despite his distinct defensive shortcomings.
Thus, with Arthur returning, the competition is heating up in midfield. Weston McKennie earned another start on Wednesday and improved as the contest wore on. In the second half, the American showed off the attributes that saw him emerge as an early success story during his debut season in Turin. His off the ball movement was superb for the chance Alvaro Morata laid on a plate for him, while he spurned a good headed opportunity after arriving late into the Zenit box.
McKennie was far from perfect, but his display was bright and it was certainly a step in the right direction.
The Texan’s performance and Arthur’s tidy cameo came in a game where Rodrigo Bentancur struggled. While the Uruguayan has become one of Allegri’s go-to men on the big night, he looks lost in contests where the opposition sit deep. Backwards and sideways passes were ubiquitous, while there were some unexplainable (but typical Bentancur) possession errors.
It was a sloppy performance from the midfielder, although he’ll likely retain his place alongside Locatelli for Sunday’s clash with Inter. Now, however, competition is rife for places in Juve’s midfield with Adrien Rabiot also returning this weekend.
The Frenchman is well regarded by Allegri but, like Bentancur, his spot is certainly under threat. At this stage, Locatelli appears to be the only certainty.