Juventus Face Player Shortages for Coppa Italia Opener Against Cagliari

Juventus is set to begin their Coppa Italia campaign against Cagliari on Tuesday, but the team will be without at least three important players, according to recent reports.

Andrea Cambiaso has not recovered from his ankle injury in time for the match. The Italian international has been sidelined since December 7 following the 2-2 draw with Bologna. Initially expected to return for this fixture, Cambiaso will likely remain out until at least the weekend Serie A clash with Monza.

In addition to Cambiaso, Juventus will also be missing young defender Jonas Rouhi from their Next Gen academy. This leaves the team with only two fit senior full-backs – Danilo and Nicolo Savona – available for selection.

Despite recently returning to the matchday squad, Douglas Luiz is also expected to sit out the Coppa Italia tie against Cagliari. Like Cambiaso, Luiz is more likely to make his comeback in Sunday’s league match versus Monza.

These absences present a challenge for manager Thiago Motta as he prepares his squad for their first cup match of the season. The multiple defensive gaps may force tactical adjustments as Juventus aims to progress in the competition.