Juventus and Italy received a boost with news that Federico Chiesa is edging closer to his comeback, but Leandro Paredes is ruled out for at least two weeks by a thigh strain.
The talented winger turns 25 on Monday and has been out of action since snapping the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee back in January 2022.
His return to the field has taken longer than expected, largely due to the risk of relapses and concerns over muscular issues.
Chiesa finally took a decisive step towards his return today, playing 45 minutes in a friendly that was organised at the Continassa training ground.
It was a game between ranks, including members of the Under-19 and Under-17 squads, but Chiesa still managed to find the net twice.
This does not mean that Chiesa is ready to play in Serie A next week or even in the Champions League, but it is another big step towards his return.
However, the bad news is that Paredes felt pain after a substitute appearance in the 4-0 win over Empoli on Friday evening.
According to Sky Sport Italia, it is so serious that Paredes will certainly miss the games against Benfica and Lecce, while he is also in doubt for the showdown with Inter on November 6.
Juventus released a statement this afternoon confirming that Paredes has been diagnosed with a low-grade lesion to the femoral bicep in his left thigh, an injury that requires circa 15 days for a complete recovery.
Always 1 in 1 out for the 7/9.
lets see if they can continue – hopefully play positive football
Someone needs to ask serious questions of Allegri’s back room staff
This one in counts as 3. Bentornato, Chiesa.