Tudor Affirms Juventus is Continually Evolving as They Prepare for Heated Showdown with Formidable Roma

The newly-appointed Juventus manager, Igor Tudor, noted that his squad was struggling when he took over, and he emphasises that they are still a work in progress just two weeks into his role as he gears up for his first significant challenge this Sunday against a resurgent AS Roma in Serie A.

Currently sitting fifth, Juventus trails Bologna by a single point in their quest for Champions League qualification. Meanwhile, Roma is on a roll, having won their last seven league matches and are three points behind Tudor’s side.

“I inherited a team in a tough situation; we have since begun to regroup and find our momentum. How long will it take to fully improve? That’s uncertain and no one can predict,” Tudor told the media on Saturday.

“Every match is a test. I anticipate a challenging game, just like everyone else in Serie A. In football, you cannot make assumptions; you must give your all each Sunday.”

Tudor took the reins after replacing Thiago Motta last month, following consecutive defeats to Atalanta and Fiorentina. He marked the start of his tenure with a narrow 1-0 victory over Genoa.

The former Croatian defender remarked that the encounter with Roma, who have yet to lose a league match since December, won’t be a defining moment in the race for the top four, especially with eight matches left in the season.

“It’s a crucial match, but not one that will decide anything… we are up against a side that’s in excellent form. Our focus is on our own performance and the aspects we are working to improve,” he elaborated.

Tudor praised Roma’s impressive run in the league, attributing much of their success to their manager, Claudio Ranieri.

“Ranieri has made a significant impact. They face challenges just like any team, especially with the quality of players they possess,” he stated.

The coach confirmed that midfielder Douglas Luiz and defender Andrea Cambiaso have recovered from their injuries and are set to be on the bench on Sunday, while Juventus will continue to push forward despite the absence of key defender Federico Gatti, who is sidelined with a calf bone fracture.

“His absence is significant, but there’s no point in lamenting. We have others ready to step in,” Tudor concluded.