Luciano Spalletti Praises Juventus’ Risk-Taking After Comeback Win Over Celta Vigo
Juventus ended their disappointing run of form with a 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo in the second matchday of the UEFA Europa League, but head coach Luciano Spalletti admitted that his side took considerable risks to secure all three points at the Estadio Balaidos.
The two teams met in Galicia on Friday, October 16, with Juventus forced to come from behind after Hugo Alvarez put the Spanish hosts ahead. The Bianconeri responded through goals from Nick Woltemade and Randal Kolo Muani late in the match to complete an important comeback victory.
Spalletti was pleased with the result, particularly because Juventus showed greater attacking intent after the interval. However, the Italian coach acknowledged that his team’s approach left them vulnerable at certain stages, with their midfield struggling to maintain possession and control the tempo.
Woltemade played a crucial role in the comeback, capitalising on a mistake by Marcos Alonso to bring Juventus level. Kolo Muani then made the most of the spaces opening up late in the contest, helping the visitors find the decisive goal as Celta struggled to contain their attacking movement.
Spalletti praised the French forward’s contribution but suggested that Juventus could have managed certain situations more effectively, particularly when trying to retain possession and maintain their midfield structure.
“Kolo showed what a winger should do. That responsibility should have been given to Cambiaso. At certain moments, we struggled to keep the ball, and too many midfield players appeared to be free,” Spalletti said, as reported by Football Italia.
The Juventus manager also acknowledged the physical demands of the encounter. Celta forced his players to work hard throughout the match, leaving several members of the squad visibly tired by the final stages. Nevertheless, he was encouraged by the impact made by Woltemade and Kolo Muani, whose contributions ultimately turned the game in Juventus’ favour.
The victory gives Juventus six points from their opening two Europa League matches, placing them at the top of the standings and providing a timely boost after their recent struggles. Their ability to respond under pressure will be particularly encouraging for Spalletti as he continues to shape the team’s performances.
Juventus must now quickly turn their attention back to domestic competition, with Lazio awaiting them in their seventh Serie A fixture on Monday, October 19. Spalletti will hope that the comeback in Spain provides the confidence his side needs to carry their improved momentum into the next challenge.
For Juventus, the result was about more than just securing another European victory. It demonstrated their ability to find solutions when trailing, although Spalletti will still expect greater control and defensive balance as the season progresses.
