Spezia 1-4 Juventus: 5 Talking Points as Cristiano Ronaldo returns to save the Old Lady | Serie A 2020-21

Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo

#3 Andrea Pirlo's defensive woes

Juventus manager Andrea Pirlo
Juventus manager Andrea Pirlo

Juventus' defensive issues were laid bare against Barcelona, but when a newly-promoted team is still causing plenty of trouble at the back, questions need to be asked.

Juventus have conceded in every Serie A game this season, bar their opener against Sampdoria. When you consider that they have faced the likes of Crotone, Hellas Verona and Spezia in their nascent season so far, it's quiet honestly a damning indictment of Andrea Pirlo's tactics.

The Bianconeri looked vulnerable in every transition of the ball, with Spezia causing them plenty of hurt on the counter. Pobega found acres of space on the edge of the box when scoring Spezia's goal, a result of the midfield being caught up the pitch.

Even after taking a 3-1 lead, Juventus looked nervous at the back, with Spezia continuing to create presentable chances to score. However, it's still early in Pirlo's reign, so perhaps a bit of patience ought to be afforded to the Italian.


#2 Weston McKinnie and Danilo establish their importance to Juventus

Juventus defender Danilo
Juventus defender Danilo

For all of the criticism Andrea Pirlo has faced for Juventus' defensive problems, he deserves plaudits for finding a system that amplifies the playing potential of his midfield. Weston McKinnie was fantastic throughout, making plenty of decisive forward runs that caused Spezia problems.

He was found for the opening goal by Danilo, who produced some impressive passes throughout the game while also shutting down opponents as much as he could.

These are promising signs for the future as Pirlo continues to tweak and build a new-look, high energy midfield.


#1 Cristiano Ronaldo. Saviour. Superstar.

Spezia Calcio v Juventus - Serie A
Spezia Calcio v Juventus - Serie A

Well, what more can be written about Cristiano Ronaldo. The script played out in predictable fashion - Juventus in trouble and looking nervous; he comes on and immediately settles nerves with a goal that was never in doubt.

The Portuguese talisman has been quite a miss for Juventus due to his enforced COVID-19 isolation - the Bianconeri have only won one of the four games they've played without him.

It's not like the disease seems to have affected him either (unlike Paulo Dybala), as Ronaldo looked full of intelligent running and skill on the ball as soon as he came on. Clearly, he's not slowing down and the Juventini will be grateful he's back.

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Edited by Sai Krishna