Defenders
Giorgio Chiellini
The 31-year-old Pisa native showed that he has plenty of life left in him yet, at the European Championships. Chiellini sometimes has his moments of recklessness but on the whole has been a massive asset for Juventus over the years. He wouldn’t have amassed 401 appearances for the Turin club otherwise, since his transfer from Fiorentina 11 years ago.
Chiellini has had injury issues in recent times, but should put that behind him in the coming season. When he’s out, Juve easily switch to 4 at the back, or Patrice Evra could take up his position on the left of a back 3.
Leonardo Bonucci
Fans who have followed Bonucci’s career know that his ascent has been apparent for a while now and he garnered great acclaim at the Euros, his pass for Giaccherini’s goal, especially, has been played on the highlight reels everywhere.
The Italian’s passing abilities have been on show in Turin for years, though, and he’s only been getting better at pinging passes across the pitch. Guardiola was keen on luring him to City, but the Bianconeri had no intention of letting him go, even in the face of monstrous offers. Resolute in his tackling, and thoroughly intelligent in his defensive positioning, Bonucci is in his peak and will be marshalling the Juve defence with great confidence.
Mehdi Benatia
It might seem odd to leave out Andrea Barzagli, but at 35 years of age, Juve should look towards the future and start to integrate Mehdi Benatia in their starting 11. Benatia already knows Serie A inside out, and was one of the best players of the division in his tenure at Roma. The Moroccan should settle in with ease.
He’s useful in the opposition box as well and has already banged in a couple of goals in pre-season. At 29, he has a few good years left in him at the very least.
