Juventus protects Spalletti but demands immediate reaction; Pioli emerges as main replacement option

Juventus CEO Carnevali addressed the squad after the Lazio defeat, backing Spalletti but demanding immediate improvement; the club will hold a two-day retreat at their hotel.

Juventus's crisis deepened following their collapse against Lazio. Manager Luciano Spalletti held individual and collective talks with players in the dressing room, and on Tuesday the club's leadership intervened directly—a rare occurrence. CEO Giovanni Carnevali delivered a "very direct" confrontation with the squad, reaffirming confidence in Spalletti while demanding accountability and condemning recent performances as unacceptable. The players have been put under pressure and reminded of the disappointment felt by supporters and ownership, which continues to invest heavily in the club.

Spalletti apologized at Marassi and signaled he would implement shock therapy, saying "I must do something different" in his press conference. He proposed an early retreat, which the board approved. Juventus will return to their Continassa training ground for a late-morning session, then stay overnight at their JHotel for two days of recovery, reflection, and preparation for Napoli. The hard line suggested by the manager has been backed by the club, indicating Spalletti is not yet under discussion for replacement.

While the club would prefer to avoid changing managers—it would be the fifth in just over two years—contingency plans exist. Didier Deschamps, the former Juventus player and France coach, has offered himself.