Ex-Juventus midfielder: Three players ‘adding nothing’ ahead of ‘terrible month’

Former Juventus midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi criticises Teun Koopmeiners, Lois Openda and Edon Zhegrova following the Old Lady’s Coppa Italia exit: ‘They add nothing, and Juve have a terrible month ahead.’

Juventus faceda  Coppa Italia exit on Thursday, losing 3-0 against Atalanta in Bergamo.

Former Juventus midfielder Tacchinardi examined the game during SportMediaset’s post-match show, blaming the Old Lady’s reserves and focusing particularly on three players.

“The result was too harsh for Juve, because they put in a very good performance,” Tacchinardi said via Tuttosport.

“They created a lot before the penalty, which, for me, was nonexistent. They are playing great football, but paid a high price because they were unable to finalise their attacks. After all, who wins is right.”

Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti argued after the match that his players made the wrong decisions in the key moments of the game, contrary to Atalanta, who were clinical and converted most of their chances.

Jonathan David started the match in Bergamo last night, but failed to find the net. The Canada striker has been in good form in recent weeks, scoring four times in his last five Serie A appearances.

“I think Juventus wanted a striker with different characteristics because he wants the ball inside the box and he fights, but it’s not enough, and he’s still shy up there,” Tacchinardi said.

“Juventus have many tough games coming up, and David and Openda are not increasing their level. I see a player who puts in commitment, but is struggling. Juventus’ reserves are struggling, but Spalletti can’t use only 11 players and needs everyone to improve. Koopmeiners, Openda and Zhegrova are adding nothing, but Spalletti needs them because he has a terrible month ahead.”

The Serie A giants will host Lazio in their next Serie A match on Sunday before visiting Inter the following week.

Before the end of February, they’ll also meet Galatasaray twice in the Champions League play-off and host Como in Serie A.

Even March won’t start softly as their first game next month will be away at Roma.