So, 2022, what have you got for us, eh?
2021 wasn’t the kindest of years for Juventus. Sure, we saw legend Andrea Pirlo lead the club to two pieces of silverware and an unlikely top-four finish on the final day, but his dismissal combined with the disappointment that ensued with Massimiliano Allegri’s return left Juventini more than unsatisfied with the years work.
Allegri’s comeback is yet to spark the renaissance that so many expected, but a bright end to 2021 offered supporters a glimmer of hope that a more prosperous 2022 is in order. Juventus are very much still in the midst of a rebuild, and the next 12 months are pivotal in deciding just how swiftly the Bianconeri will bounce back.
6 targets for Juventus in 2022
It’s a massive year for the fallen giant, and here are six targets for Juventus in 2022.
1. Survive January
Following a kind run of fixtures to end 2021, it’s no surprise that Juventus endure a gauntlet to kick-off 2022.
The Bianconeri return to Serie A action against Napoli before visiting AS Roma three days later. They’ll also take on AC Milan away from home later this month.
Oh, and then there’s the Coppa Italia to look forward to. Juve’s defence begins against Sampdoria on January 18, three days after hosting Udinese in the league and almost a week after the Supercoppa Italiana against Inter Milan.
It’s a frenetic start to 2022. Fortunately, though, Massimiliano Allegri should welcome back Paulo Dybala, Federico Chiesa and perhaps Danilo later on for Juve’s tricky run. They’ll play six times in 17 days before earning some much-needed respite at the end of the month.
Allegri’s squad management will be put to the test once more, and it’s imperative that the Bianconeri survive January with just a couple of scratches. Progress in the Coppa Italia and returning at least eight points from their four Serie A fixtures should be the target. That’ll be a productive month and a foundation layer for the rest of the season.
Continues onto the next slide…