Vlahovic Return: Juventus Striker Nears Comeback for Udinese Clash
Juventus is poised to welcome back striker Dusan Vlahovic to the squad sooner than initially anticipated, offering a significant boost to their Champions League qualification hopes. The Serbian international has been progressing well in his rehabilitation from an adductor injury and is now targeting a return to action in the upcoming match against Udinese on .
Vlahovic initially began a re-athleticization program on February 1st, and has since been participating in parts of team training. While a return for the match against Pisa was considered, coach Luciano Spalletti is taking a cautious approach to avoid rushing the forward back before he is fully fit. Although, Vlahovic has reportedly increased his intensity in recent weeks, accelerating his recovery timeline.
Spalletti had initially anticipated Vlahovic would be unavailable until late March, prompting the club to seek a similar type of forward during the January transfer window. The coach’s desire for a physical presence in the penalty area wasn’t met with a signing, leaving the door open for Vlahovic to immediately contribute upon his return.
The timing of Vlahovic’s return is particularly crucial for Juventus as they navigate a tightly contested race for a top-four finish in Serie A, securing a coveted spot in next season’s Champions League. Spalletti has openly stated that securing Champions League football is the primary objective for the remainder of the season.
While Vlahovic won’t be fully match-fit in time for the Coppa Italia clash against Udinese on – a match Spalletti admitted he would have preferred to have the striker available for – his presence on the bench against Udinese represents a significant step forward. The coach is keen to have a more structured attacking unit, particularly after expressing dissatisfaction with the performance of Moise Kean, who has struggled to provide a consistent reference point in attack.
Spalletti’s assessment of Kean suggests a clear preference for a more traditional number nine, a role Vlahovic is well-suited to fill. The Serbian’s ability to occupy defenders and provide a focal point in attack will be vital as Juventus look to grind out results in the closing stages of the season.
Beyond the immediate impact on Juventus’s Champions League push, Vlahovic’s return also introduces an element of uncertainty surrounding his long-term future at the club. The striker’s contract is set to expire, and he currently commands a substantial salary – €8 million per year, plus a €4 million bonus linked to a previous loyalty agreement.
However, recent reports suggest Vlahovic is open to the possibility of signing a new deal with Juventus, potentially signaling a commitment to the club’s project under Spalletti. His performance in the remainder of the season will likely play a key role in shaping those negotiations. A strong finish, contributing significantly to Champions League qualification, could strengthen his position and potentially lead to favorable contract terms.
The return of Vlahovic isn’t just about adding goals and physicality to the Juventus attack; it’s about providing Spalletti with a tactical option he has been actively seeking. It’s about injecting a sense of optimism into a team striving to overcome recent challenges and secure a place among Europe’s elite. The match against Udinese on will be a crucial test, not only for Juventus’s Champions League ambitions but also for Vlahovic’s reintegration into the team and his potential long-term future in Turin.
Juventus’s recent 3-1 victory over Udinese, as evidenced by footage from , showcased the team’s attacking prowess with contributions from Vlahovic, Gatti, and Yildiz. This dominant performance further underscores the importance of having a fully fit and firing Vlahovic leading the line as they continue their pursuit of a Champions League berth.