Spalletti After Celta Vigo-Juventus: “We Don’t Care About Being Underestimated

Juventus secured a 2–1 comeback victory over Celta Vigo in the UEFA Europa League, but the post-match discussion was dominated by Luciano Spalletti’s public comments regarding substitute Francisco Conceição and midfielder Teun Koopmeiners.

Spalletti Criticizes Conceição After Substitution Reaction

The decisive goals from Nick Woltemade and Randal Kolo Muani in stoppage time propelled Juventus to their second success in the league phase. Yet manager Luciano Spalletti used his post-match television interview to address Francisco Conceição’s visible frustration after being replaced in the 64th minute by Nico González. The manager noted that Conceição slipped three times early in the match, questioning his preparation for the playing surface.

Conceição disputed claims of a significant rift when speaking to reporters after the final whistle. The forward denied arguing with the staff. “First of all, I want to say that I didn’t argue with anyone,” Conceição said. “I came out and gave a little hit to the bench where I sit. I didn’t argue with the staff, it’s not true what was said, we didn’t have any dialogue.” He explained that he merely went inside to change his shirt and use the restroom for three or four minutes.

Tactical Struggles and Slow First-Half Tempo

Beyond the touchline friction, Spalletti evaluated his team’s sluggish start. The manager kept his team’s enthusiasm in check despite the late winner. Spalletti admitted his squad played too slowly during the first half, allowing Celta Vigo to dictate the tempo and maintain defensive shape. He contrasted the performance unfavorably with a recent outing against Cagliari, where he felt Juventus showed superior dynamism and tactical attention even without taking all three points.

The tactical adjustments proved decisive late in the game. Spalletti shifted Randal Kolo Muani centrally after deploying him out wide initially to accommodate Andrea Cambiaso. Woltemade tired toward the end, allowing the fresh French forward to exploit one-on-one situations. Spalletti defended his willingness to accept defensive risks in pursuit of victory, noting that his players must remain proactive despite leaving spaces for opposition counterattacks.

Koopmeiners Faces Pressure as Midfield Struggles Persist

Midfielder Teun Koopmeiners also drew direct assessment from his manager following the European fixture. Spalletti remarked that Koopmeiners currently lacks tranquility because he features infrequently and feels constantly scrutinized. The technical staff had anticipated that continental competition would help restore the player’s confidence, but Spalletti insisted that considerable improvement remains necessary.