Giorgio Chiellini expressed his belief that Luciano Spalletti will be a long-term presence at Juventus, while cautioning that tonight’s match against Cagliari presents a ‘classic trap.’
The match is set to start at the Unipol Domus stadium at 19:45 GMT (20:45 CET).
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Catch all the pre-game analysis and live updates from today’s three Serie A matches on the Liveblog.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on before the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Kenan Yildiz was initially a doubt for the game due to flu symptoms, but has since recovered and is in the starting lineup.
Manuel Locatelli is one yellow card away from a suspension ahead of the upcoming match against Napoli, but Khephren Thuram is being rested to make way for Teun Koopmeiners’ return.
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Chiellini Supports Spalletti’s Vision for Juventus
LEWISBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – JUNE 14: Former Juventus and Italian national team defender Giorgio Chiellini arrives at the airport ahead of the official FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on June 14, 2025. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
“Every match holds significance, and tonight’s encounter can often be tricky,” Chiellini stated to Sky Sport Italia.
“A victory here would be crucial for us, helping to establish consistency and ensuring we approach next week’s Champions League and Serie A match against Napoli in a positive frame of mind.”
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After a challenging start to the season that resulted in Igor Tudor’s dismissal, Spalletti has led the team to six wins in their last seven matches, propelling them back into the title race.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Pierre Kalulu of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal, an own goal from Tarik Muharemovic of US Sassuolo Calcio during the Serie A match on January 06, 2026 at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“Juventus has developed positively, and I believe the match against Bologna instilled a lot of confidence. Although there were challenges earlier, that game, coupled with having some time for full training, has allowed the team to improve,” he added.
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“Looking back, even from that difficult phase, the team has bonded and emerged stronger.”
Although Spalletti’s contract is currently set to expire at the end of the season, discussions are underway for an extension regardless of their Champions League qualification status.
“We’ve always had the intention of extending the contract. I genuinely see Luciano being part of Juventus for many years to come. We’ll address it at an appropriate time, but we’ve never had any doubts,” Chiellini concluded.