Spalletti hits back at Juventus critics ahead of Lazio showdown: 'We're on the right path'

Spalletti builds the trenches

All eyes turn to Sunday evening's showdown at 19:45 as Juventus host Lazio, and Bianconeri coach Luciano Spalletti has come out swinging against a narrative he believes is working against his side.

"They want to see us in the quicksand, but we're on the right path," Spalletti told Tuttosport, praising opposite number Gennaro Gattuso before digging in. "Am I nervous? No, I'm just selective … Too many people focus on the negatives, but we're getting stronger." With the headline "Juve have everyone against them," the Turin paper captured a club feeling besieged.

Spalletti's assistant Domenichini will take charge on the bench, while Nico Paz is expected to replace Nick Woltemade in the lineup. For Lazio, "Ringhio" Gattuso is "determined to catch up with Inter," and Corriere noted "Lazio need it to regain the lead" with a win.