Few, looking at the squad Juventus assembled, would have bet on them winning the Champions League. However, this team can win the Europa League. Naturally, they need to find their form again. If they dismiss it as a second-tier competition, they will face problems even tonight. This sentiment comes from Alex Del Piero, speaking live on Sky just before Juventus's match against NEC, marking the first day of the Europa League group stage.
Europa League for Juve and Milan: Del Piero Says 'They Have Everything to Lose'
Del Piero added: "Playing this competition for Milan and Juventus? They have everything to lose, unfortunately. It's not the Champions League, and if things go wrong... Losing here doesn't bring positivity. Losing in the Champions League is one thing; the Europa League is perceived as more attainable. This, coupled with the recent match against Sassuolo, should inspire the players to make an emotional shift. A clear signal of change is needed, both in terms of morale and impact on the game."
Del Piero on Spalletti and Juve: 'Intensity is Everything Today, and Time is Limited'
Del Piero continued his analysis: "Simply stating a desire to perform well in this competition isn't enough. They must remember the defeat to Sassuolo and show that they are better than that performance. In today's game, intensity is paramount. Milan and Juventus have begun new journeys. Milan's change is more significant with Amorim, while Spalletti started last season. Unfortunately, time is scarce, so everyone involved needs to move quickly."
Juve Needs to 'Find Soul, Heart, and Desire', According to Del Piero
Finally, Del Piero concluded by emphasizing: "Spalletti has likely told Kolo Muani and all the other players that games are won by sixteen players; substitutions are incredibly important, with five allowed. Therefore, it's crucial for coaches to have plans A, B, and C. It's vital to convey this to the players. Today, Juventus doesn't need a goal from Woltemade or Kolo Muani; they need to find their soul, heart, and desire."
