News
Allegri faces tough decision in replacing Locatelli for Coppa Italia final
![](https://maxstatman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/gettyimages-1722623423-612x612-1.jpg)
With the Coppa Italia final against Atalanta just around the corner, Juventus faces a major setback as Manuel Locatelli, a mainstay in the team’s midfield, is ruled out due to cards.
This leaves manager Massimiliano Allegri with a crucial decision: who fills Locatelli’s shoes in the Bianconeri’s midfield?
Allegri is well aware that there’s no direct replacement for Locatelli, who brings a unique blend of technical ability, tactical intelligence, and work ethic to his role. However, he does have options at his disposal.
One possibility is to hand a starting berth to Charly Alcaraz, who has seen limited playing time since returning from a hamstring injury.
Read more:
The Argentinian, who joined on loan from Southampton, is eager to prove his worth and could use this opportunity to showcase his talent and potentially convince the club to exercise his buyout clause, which seems unlikely at this point.
Another option is to deploy a more defensive-minded midfielder in Locatelli’s place, such as Danilo, Adrien Rabiot, or Hans Nicolussi Caviglia. Nicolussi Caviglia, in particular, has seen limited action this season, with only three starts among his eight appearances.
However, the current frontrunner to replace Locatelli is Fabio Miretti, according to the reports. The young midfielder impressed after coming off the bench against Salernitana, having somewhat faded from the limelight in recent weeks.
Allegri will have the next few days, including the pre-match training session tomorrow, to make his final decision based on training performances and tactical considerations.
The choice of Locatelli’s replacement will undoubtedly have a significant impact on Juventus’ midfield dynamics and overall approach in the Coppa Italia final. Allegri’s decision will be closely scrutinized as he seeks to guide his team to victory against a formidable Atalanta side.
❗Fabio Miretti is the main candidate to start in front of the defence in the final against Atalanta.
[@GiovaAlbanese / @Gazzetta_it] #Juventus pic.twitter.com/esdp9RfRXU
— Forza Juventus (@ForzaJuveEN) May 13, 2024