In an interview with *Tuttosport*, Paolo Di Canio shared his insights ahead of the highly anticipated clash between Juventus and Lazio, shedding light on what Juventus needs in attack and in the transfer market.
Regarding Juventus, Di Canio expressed satisfaction with the team’s current form. “We are already seeing the right compactness, attitude, and mentality,” he stated, according to *Tuttosport*. “This is a team that doesn’t concede goals and gives little opportunity for the opposition to harm them. However, from an offensive perspective, I expected more.”
On Juventus’ ambitions, Di Canio was clear that the team must always aim high. “As Alex Del Piero often says, regardless of where they finished last year, Juventus must compete at the top,” he said. “While winning the league might not be an obligation, finishing in the top four and securing a Champions League spot certainly is. The squad needs to make a mental leap to maintain the same intensity and mentality in every match.”
When asked about Douglas Luiz, Di Canio was candid. “Douglas is a player I often talk about, not just with Juventus fans,” he mentioned. “I claimed that Juventus signed a top player, and I stand by that. However, what I’ve witnessed here is unrecognisable compared to what I saw at Aston Villa. It may be a psychological issue, as he was much loved at Villa. It’s no surprise that Thiago prefers Locatelli at the moment.”
On the possibility of Yildiz as a substitute for Vlahovic, Di Canio advised against a role change for the young player. “Yildiz should not be transformed into something he’s not,” he said. “His strength lies in starting from deeper positions and exploiting space. If Vlahovic needs a rest, Juventus could find themselves lacking in tactical options.”
Looking ahead to January, Di Canio suggested a bold move. “I’d look to loan Zirkzee from Manchester United,” he proposed. “He’s been underutilised there, and his style could fit well in Serie A, unlike in the Premier League. Starting negotiations now for a loan with an option to buy could be a wise move.”
Previewing the Juventus-Lazio fixture, Di Canio warned of Lazio’s robust style. “Lazio have acquired players who are more about running, dynamics, and grit,” he remarked. “They’re like soldiers on the pitch, and many teams have fallen into their trap. Juventus should be cautious about setting up the game like Lazio; otherwise, they could face significant risks.”
Di Canio concluded with a note of caution but optimism for the upcoming match, particularly emphasising Lazio’s current form as a potential challenge for Juventus.
