Spalletti Confirms Kolo Muani and Woltemade Start Together for First Time as Juventus Host Rennes
Luciano Spalletti has confirmed that Randal Kolo Muani and Nick Woltemade will line up together from the start for the first time when Juventus host Rennes on Thursday in the third round of the Europa League league phase.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Wednesday, via Sky Sport Italia, the Juventus coach revealed the attacking decision while also lifting the lid on a candid dressing-room meeting held after the club's heavy domestic defeat.
Kolo Muani and Woltemade to Start as a Pair
The two forwards have already featured simultaneously this season, but Thursday will mark the first time they begin a match alongside one another from the off.
"Both will start tomorrow," Spalletti confirmed.
Players Cleared the Air After Lazio Defeat
Juventus head into the Rennes tie days after a 3-0 home loss to Lazio in Serie A, a result that prompted captain Gleison Bremer to strongly criticise his teammates. The players were given the chance to clear the air the following day, and Spalletti encouraged them to speak openly.
"The players are fully engaged with what we are discussing. In our latest meeting, I encouraged them to speak at length so I could gather as much information as possible and help them avoid dropping their level during matches," Spalletti said.
"Their comments confirmed their honesty and professionalism. They showed a willingness to offer more and bring more variety to our play.
"I made everyone talk and remained silent, but I was glad to hear what they had to say. For me, it's easier to continue my work."
Asked whether Bremer had also spoken during the meeting, Spalletti replied: "He explained his words, and the team accepted them because these players have a great relationship in the dressing room."
Explaining the Gap Between Europe and Serie A
Juventus have taken six points from their opening two Europa League matches but have already lost twice in seven Serie A fixtures this season. Spalletti declined to pin the inconsistency on a single cause.
"There's no specific reason. Every match has its own history, and you have to react to what the opposition brings each time," he said.
"You need to understand the consequences of their approach and know when to press and when to stick back. We have to be more decisive when we make a choice."
Rennes a 'Maturity Test' for the Bianconeri
Looking ahead to the French side, Spalletti was quick to highlight the threat posed by Rennes, who sit sixth in Ligue 1 but only a point below the top spot.
"Rennes is strong on the open field and physically," Spalletti concluded. "They have fast attackers and the [Ligue 1] top scorer, Lepaul. They are having a good season; they are sixth, but one point below the top spot, so they have enthusiasm, and for us it is a maturity test. We must be good at determining things with our attitude."