Juventus: Didier Deschamps in the running to succeed Luciano Spalletti
Weakened by Juventus' poor results, Luciano Spalletti could see his future darken. According to several media outlets, including the Italian daily La Stampa, Didier Deschamps is among the profiles being considered by the Turin-based club's directors. Initial contacts are said to have been established through representatives of the former France manager.
Juventus are exploring several options for their technical staff. Struggling in Serie A, the Italian club are reportedly interested in Didier Deschamps as a potential successor to Luciano Spalletti. The information, reported by the Italian press, refers to initial discussions about the French coach's availability.
Available since his announced departure from the France national team, Deschamps is reportedly waiting for a project capable of convincing him to return to club management. His availability is said to have been brought to the attention of the Turin hierarchy by intermediaries. At this stage, no official announcement has indicated that an agreement has been reached between the two parties.
Spalletti under pressure after defeat to Genoa
Juventus' sporting situation has raised questions about Luciano Spalletti's future. On Wednesday, October 28, the Turin side lost 2-0 to Genoa. The defeat has increased the pressure on the coach and revived speculation about a possible change at the helm of the team.
The club's directors must now assess the results and the prospects for a turnaround before making a decision. Didier Deschamps is reportedly not the only name being considered. Other coaches, including Antonio Conte and Stefano Pioli, have also been cited among the options mentioned by the Italian media.
France: Didier Deschamps wants to rest
Deschamps, a former Turin player
The Didier Deschamps option is of particular interest to Juventus. The former French midfielder wore the bianconeri shirt between 1994 and 1999. He then managed the club during the 2006-2007 season in Serie B, following relegation in the wake of the Calciopoli scandal.
His experience of Italian football and his knowledge of the Turin environment are factors that could weigh in the directors' deliberations. His record at the helm of the France national team, including the 2018 World Cup title, also strengthens his profile among the coaches likely to interest a major European club.
No agreement announced at this stage
Despite reports of preliminary contacts, the matter remains open. Juventus have made no official announcement regarding either Luciano Spalletti's departure or the arrival of a new coach. The possible appointment of Didier Deschamps would therefore depend on how the sporting situation develops and on discussions between the various parties.
For now, the French coach appears to be a serious option mentioned by the media, but not the already-designated future manager of Juventus. The next decisions by the Turin hierarchy will reveal the true extent of this interest.