Del Piero: ‘Vlahovic and Zakaria transform Juventus’

Alessandro Del Piero believes Juventus have become too focused on playing counter-attacking football, so Dusan Vlahovic and Denis Zakaria will ‘transform’ Max Allegri’s team.

The January transfer window saw centre-forward Vlahovic picked up for over €70m from Fiorentina, while midfielder Zakaria arrived from Borussia Monchengladbach for circa €8m.

Club legend Del Piero told Sky Sport Italia these additions will fundamentally change the general tactical approach Juve have had so far this season.

“We saw many times over the years that Juventus dominated games and would be punished on the counter-attack, but now they are on the other side of that situation,” said Del Piero.

“They have too often hidden away behind their strong defence. These two new players, especially Vlahovic, will give a different approach.

“Vlahovic has incredible quality and is physically very good at protecting the ball. If he continues the form he had at Fiorentina, he can score in many different ways.”

The Bianconeri were criticised for being overly-defensive and cautious under Allegri this term, something reflected in their very poor scoring record.

The Old Lady found the net only 34 times in 23 Serie A matches this season, and only in three games did they manage over two goals.

In comparison, Vlahovic alone has scored 17 goals in 21 league outings in the 2021-22 campaign.

“These changes can transform Juve, bring enthusiasm and give them a sense of inner strength,” added Del Piero.