Summer signing Kaio Jorge seems to have made a good first impression at Juventus, with manager Massimiliano Allegri emerging as an early admirer.
The young Brazilian forward joined from Santos in a deal worth €5.4m back in August but a thigh injury kept him out of action for the first two months of the 2021/22 season. It wasn’t until October 2 when Jorge made his Juventus debut, as he came on as a late substitute in the Derby della Mole victory.
Jorge has since earned another seven minutes of Serie A action.
Despite his minimal experience at a senior level, it’s clear that the teenager has impressed Allegri since joining the club.
No January loan
Reports emerged in the Italian media of Juventus hoping to loan out the Brazilian in January in order for him to gain invaluable minutes in Serie A. Several top-flight Italian clubs were linked with a move, but the Bianconeri have seemingly altered their plans.
According to Calciomercato (via IlBianconero), Allegri has decided that he’d rather keep Jorge on his books for the rest of the season. The Juve boss reportedly appreciates the forward’s “qualities” and “professionalism”.
After scoring on his sole appearance for Juve’s Under-23’s against Albinoleffe, there has been talk of Jorge making his first Serie A start for the club against Sassuolo on Wednesday evening.
Allegri, though, was coy on Jorge earning his first start: “I don’t know whether or not Jorge will play from the start. He’s worked well, he’s improving. He has technique, he’s smart and knows how to play football,” he said in his pre-match press conference.
While a start seems unlikely, it appears Jorge is slowly garnering the trust of his manager and he could potentially be rewarded with a lengthier cameo off the bench on Wednesday.
So, despite Juventini only enjoying eight meagre minutes of the talented Brazilian, Jorge appears to be headed on an upward trajectory in Turin. He’s impressed Allegri, and I don’t think there’s any doubt we’ll see more of him in the coming weeks.
An exciting start.