News

Conte to Juventus? Carnevali speaks

Published

2 hours ago

September 14, 2026

The defeat to Sassuolo has left a bitter taste at Juventus, particularly because of the way the game ended. Juventus conceded Adzic’s last-second winner despite having fought back through Edon Zhegrova’s second equaliser and believing they could go on to win the match.

“We tried to win at all costs and lost our balance,” Juventus executive Giovanni Carnevali admitted, reflecting on the defeat and outlining the club’s ambitions for the season.

Carnevali: Juventus Must Learn From Sassuolo Defeat

Speaking to Radio Anch’io Sport, Carnevali also discussed his emotional return to the Mapei Stadium, where he spent 13 years.

“Returning to Sassuolo was something special. I was there for 13 years and saw the club grow over the years. It was quite emotional because I met many friends and former colleagues, as well as the ownership that helped me throughout my development,” Carnevali said.

He then turned his attention to Juventus’ disappointing result.

“Looking at the result, it is certainly negative. We made several mistakes that Juventus cannot afford to make, even though we created chances. This is part of the growth process of both the team and the club. We tried to win at all costs, but by doing so we lost our balance against a strong Sassuolo side. Credit must also go to our opponents.”

Carnevali nevertheless highlighted the team’s desire to fight for a positive result, insisting that the defeat should serve as a lesson.

“I hope this defeat will teach us something. The blame does not belong only to the defence, but to all of us.”

Regarding the Europa League, Carnevali made it clear that Juventus are taking the competition seriously.

“The Europa League is an important competition for us and we must aim for the best possible result. There is still a lot of work to do if we want to compete for the Scudetto. The Europa League is not an easy competition, especially because some matches may look simple on paper but are not. It can become an opportunity for us.”

Spalletti Backed as Carnevali Sends Clear Message

Carnevali also addressed the new refereeing approach in Serie A, praising the work being carried out by former referee Daniele Orsato and calling for more continuity.

“The game is more enjoyable and competitive. Letting play continue more can help the spectacle. Fewer penalties is also positive, because sometimes handball offences are given for ridiculous situations. Clubs must help referees because everyone can make mistakes.”

The Juventus executive was then asked about Dusan Vlahovic and his departure situation.

“I never spoke with the player. When I arrived, he had already received a very important financial proposal, which was not accepted. I am not someone who chases players. Vlahovic was respectful towards Juventus, but after he did not accept the proposal, that was the end of it.”

Finally, Carnevali dismissed calls for a change in the dugout and insisted that Luciano Spalletti deserves time and rumors about Conte:

“Spalletti is an extraordinary coach, one of the very best. Changing the coach is not in my nature. We need to plan and build, give him time and be patient, knowing that we will have to swallow some bitter pills before finding satisfaction.”

He added: “The objective of a club like Juventus is to win, but at the same time you have to understand where you are and where you want to go. Talk means very little. I only know one method: work. We have to work.”

Carnevali also stressed that the new Juventus leadership team needs time to build something sustainable, highlighting his collaboration with Spalletti, Ricky Massara and Ottolini.

“We have created an important working group with Spalletti. Watching him coach on the pitch, you realise he is one of the best around. We are fortunate to have him. With Massara and Ottolini, it is a new group, and it takes time.”

“The negative result must already be behind us. We have training today, then we have to think about Thursday’s match and the game against Atalanta. We know we will have to fight in the league, but that must also be the mentality required to be a great club like Juventus.”