Well, it turned out that Massimiliano Allegri doesn’t actually possess a magical stick. The Old Lady turned into the tried-and-tested option, but it appears that the club will need some time to forge another winning dynasty, especially with a crop of players who are a far cry from the previous versions. Speaking of the players, while some of them proved their worth in the famous black and white jersey, others are failing to justify their presence at the Allianz Stadium. So let’s take a look at the best and worst performers at Juventus during the first half of the season.
Flop #3 -Alex Sandro
Since his arrival to Turin back in 2015, Alex Sandro had been the undisputed regular starter at left-back.
But as they say, nothing lasts forever.
However, the Brazilian is suffering an early decline at the age 30 that saw him losing his starting berth in favor of Luca Pellegrini (who isn’t exactly a household name).
Let’s see if the former Porto man can rebound during the second half of the campaign.
Top #3 – Juan Cuadrado
Perhaps his impact on the team decreased a bit in comparison to last season, but the Colombian remains one of the best performers at Juventus.
The 33-year-old is still able to cover either on the wing or at fullback, making himself an essential element in Allegri’s squad.
His highlight reel of the season include a last-minute winner against Fiorentina, a direct goal from the corner kick, and of course his signature dance!
Flop #2 – Arthur Melo
Well, the entire midfield (save for Manuel Locatelli and Weston McKennie) could be mentioned as flops.
But we chose the Brazilian because he’s arguably the best technically-gifted midfielder at Juventus, but still struggling to cement himself a starting role despite the mediocre competition.
The former Barcelona man has received more playing time recently, so let’s see if his performances can convince his manager (that is if he stays in Turin beyond January).
Top #2 – Paulo Dybala
Following an underwhelming campaign marred by recurring injuries and disappointing performances, Paulo Dybala was adamant on rebounding in 2021/22.
While he hasn’t yet reached his vintage form which he displayed during his previous years at Juventus, the number ten is once again the focal point of the attack and the Bianconeri’s most decisive player.
The Argentine has already scored five Serie A goals and provided three assists, but his stats would have been more impressive if it wasn’t for a couple of injury setbacks.
Flop #1 – Aaron Ramsey
When a player is featuring in more matches for his national team rather than his club, then you just know that it’s about time for a change.
Aaron Ramsey and Juventus is simply a relationship that never took off. While each party might blame the other, they would both agree that an early divorce is the best option on the table.
Top #1 – Matthijs de Ligt
In Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, the Bianconeri arguably possess the best two veteran defenders in the world.
But following a shaky start to the campaign, Matthijs de Ligt has become the star of the show at the back.
As explained in our Best XI performers in Serie A this season, the young Juventus man is the best in the league when it comes to duels.
The Old Lady will be hoping to lock him up in Turin for as long as possible.