Key Takeaways:
- At least six Juventus players have been earmarked by Luciano Spalletti as surplus to requirements for the 2026-27 campaign, should he remain in charge
- Lois Openda has recorded only 87 minutes over eight appearances in 2026 and was overlooked against Galatasaray for a makeshift striker option
- Spalletti’s contract at Allianz Stadium expires in June, leaving his future and that of several players in doubt
Squad Reshuffle Looms Under Spalletti
Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti is reportedly preparing for a significant restructuring of the club’s roster for the 2026-27 season, with at least six players potentially set to depart. According to a report by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Spalletti has already singled out these individuals as unlikely to figure in his long-term strategy, provided he continues at the helm in Turin.
❗️Jonathan David, Lois Openda and Michele Di Gregorio are all considered up for sale by Juventus.
Federico Gatti and Juan Cabal could also leave the club.
— @Gazzetta_it pic.twitter.com/V30sNzshgv
— Forza Juve. (@TheFJEN) February 19, 2026
Players on the Chopping Block
The report highlights Lois Openda as a particular disappointment to Spalletti in training. Despite joining with promise, the Belgian has only managed 87 minutes across eight appearances during 2026. Notably, when Dusan Vlahovic and Jonathan David suffered injuries in the recent match against Galatasaray on Tuesday, Spalletti opted to deploy Weston McKennie in an unorthodox centre-forward role instead of turning to Openda.
Juan Cabal endured a difficult outing in Istanbul, failing to make a positive impression. According to Gazzetta, the Colombian international is facing difficulties adapting to Spalletti’s tactical demands, especially with playing out from the back.
Defender Federico Gatti, brought on as a substitute in Istanbul, also struggled to find form and is expected to be retained only as a depth option should he remain at Juventus next season.
Defensive Woes and Selection Critique
Goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio has come under scrutiny as Juventus have conceded 13 goals in their previous four fixtures. Both Vasilije Adzic and Edon Zhegrova have also experienced a significant reduction in playing opportunities in recent weeks, further signalling their likely exclusion from Spalletti’s future set-up.
Uncertainty Surrounding Spalletti’s Tenure
Spalletti’s own future remains unresolved, with his contract at the Allianz Stadium set to expire in June. Whether he remains or moves on will be a decisive factor for both these players and the overall structure of the Juventus squad moving into the next season.
