Key Takeaways:
- Igor Tudor confirmed that Juventus will retain their 3-4-2-1 formation for the Derby d’Italia against Inter
- Juventus enter the fixture with six points from two Serie A matches; Inter have collected three points from one win and one defeat
- Transfer deadline arrivals Openda and Zhegrova bolster the Bianconeri, though only Openda will be available for selection against Inter
Juventus Prepare to Host Inter in Sold-Out Derby d’Italia
Juventus manager Igor Tudor has outlined his intention to maintain his side’s tactical setup as they host arch-rivals Inter at the Allianz Stadium, with anticipation building ahead of a key Serie A clash. Addressing the media on Friday, Tudor characterised Inter as “a team that in recent years has been the best in Italy,” and underscored the significance of the fixture, stating the home stadium is expected to be at full capacity for the occasion.
Having accumulated six points from their opening two league matches, Juventus go into the Derby d’Italia leading Inter, who have three points after recording a win and a loss. Tudor acknowledged the post-international break adjustments, citing the need for rest and thorough preparation, but expressed positive sentiments about his squad’s current momentum.
Igor Tudor says he won’t change the Juventus system for a big game against Inter, ‘a team that in recent years has been the best in Italy.’ pic.twitter.com/lQMCYcEuuI
— Football Italia (@footballitalia) September 12, 2025
Tactical Continuity: 3-4-2-1 Remains as Openda Steps In
Since his appointment in March, Tudor has deployed a 3-4-2-1 formation and reaffirmed his commitment to this structure, highlighting the squad’s adaptability but also the necessity for continuity at this stage. “So far, we’ve played with one striker and two attacking midfielders. There’s work behind that, and now it’s definitely my job to make the most of the squad and the qualities I have, also to play in different ways. It takes time. For now, this system has worked well, and we’ll go forward like this. We’ll see with time. Openda needs space, and David can play behind a second striker, which is good because they have different characteristics. Dusan can do both.”
Juventus recently acquired Openda and Zhegrova on transfer deadline day. While both bolster the attacking options, only Openda is deemed ready to be included in the matchday squad to face Inter, with Zhegrova requiring further fitness and recovery before debuting, as revealed by Tudor.
| Player | Status vs. Inter | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Openda | Available | Can feature on left or right wing, keen to exploit space |
| Zhegrova | Unavailable | Building fitness, not in squad for next two matches |
| Dusan Vlahovic | Available | Top Juventus scorer with two Serie A goals, both as substitute |
Squad Updates and Player Roles
Dusan Vlahovic leads the club’s scoring charts this season with two Serie A goals, both netted from the bench. Tudor praised the forward’s current form and integration within the squad. Midfielder Teun Koopmeiners is in contention to start as an attacking midfielder in the continued system, with Tudor urging that he is “working well” and will continue to make a positive impact.
Providing updates regarding squad selection, Tudor stated that deadline signing Edon Zhegrova would not be available for the next two fixtures as he continues his rehabilitation, with a view to a phased introduction beginning from the Verona fixture onwards.
Regarding possible replacements for the suspended Andrea Cambiaso and Gleison Bremer, Tudor outlined four candidates: Joao Mario, Kostic, McKennie, and Cabal, the latter recently returning from absence. He confirmed that Bremer is fit, having recovered during the break and played both preceding matches, and voiced confidence that his performances will continue to improve.
Looking Ahead
With both points and pride at stake, Juventus will look to extend their strong start under Tudor in the season’s first Derby d’Italia, maintaining their trust in the established 3-4-2-1 system as they prepare for one of Italy’s most anticipated league encounters.
