The football weekend is here, with major matches in Italy and England headlining the action. Let`s dive into the key stories.
Igor Tudor Takes Charge at Juventus
Juventus has a new coach as they return from the international break. Igor Tudor replaces Thiago Motta and will manage his first game this Saturday against Genoa. Tudor`s main goal is to revitalize the team after Motta`s disappointing tenure, which included a high number of draws in Serie A, matching their win count for the season. The big question is how Tudor will change the team`s fortunes.
Many questions surround Tudor`s first Juventus lineup, especially in attack and midfield. Juventus`s struggle to win is linked to their low goal-scoring record, with only 28 goals in 29 Serie A games. Attention will be on forwards Dusan Vlahovic and Randal Kolo Muani, who have scored nine and five league goals, respectively. There`s a feeling they haven`t performed to their full potential together. Some analysts believe Motta didn`t maximize their partnership, but Tudor might unlock their best form.
- Analyst Comment: `Before Thiago Motta was dismissed, the question was whether Randal Kolo Muani and Vlahovic could play effectively together. Motta tried, but he played Kolo Muani out of position on the left wing. Many wanted to see them as a front two, and Igor Tudor might implement this. Tudor typically uses a back three formation, often a 3-4-3. However, with Juventus`s attacking midfielders, it could evolve into a 3-5-2.`
The midfield setup is also crucial, particularly for US national team players Weston McKennie and Timothy Weah. They played various roles under Motta. Weah often played as a wing-back, while McKennie was versatile. McKennie`s role under Tudor is uncertain, but he could contend for a midfield position, his natural role, which he did play under Motta.
Manchester City`s FA Cup Pursuit
The Premier League takes a backseat as the FA Cup quarterfinals take center stage. Manchester City is the only remaining “big six” team in the competition. The FA Cup might be Manchester City`s best chance for silverware this season. However, they face strong Premier League teams and a lower-league team aiming to continue their cup run.
Manchester City plays Bournemouth this Sunday in a crucial quarterfinal. Despite an inconsistent season, City are favorites due to their world-class players like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. However, Bournemouth previously defeated City 2-1 earlier in the season, highlighting their capabilities. Bournemouth, and other teams, might be inspired by Newcastle United`s EFL Cup win and have their own talented players, such as Justin Kluivert. This match could also be important for Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, who is reportedly a candidate for the Tottenham Hotspur job next season.
Another notable FA Cup game is Aston Villa against Preston North End, the last lower-league team in the competition. Villa are strong favorites and see the FA Cup as a realistic trophy target in their successful season, which also includes a Champions League quarterfinal spot. Aston Villa could be a leading contender to win the FA Cup if they advance.
