Match Centre

Kolo Muani or Woltemade vs Sassuolo? Spalletti has decided

Published

2 months ago

September 9, 2026

Federico Gatti once again transformed himself into Juventus’ unlikely hero, rescuing the Bianconeri from defeat with a dramatic late equaliser against Milan at the Allianz Stadium.

According to Calciomercato, Luciano Spalletti’s desperate move paid off as Gatti found the net just three minutes after coming on.

Juventus avoided what would have been an undeserved defeat, with the defender effectively turning into a centre-forward during the closing stages after another disappointing night for Randal Kolo Muani.

Spalletti: “Who will start against Sassuolo?”

The French striker once again failed to live up to expectations and remains without a goal after struggling in Juventus’ opening two league matches.

The former PSG forward spent the final part of the game on the pitch alongside new signing Nick Woltemade, who came close to scoring before Gatti eventually rescued Juventus.

Kolo Muani was heavily criticised by the home supporters at the final whistle, with the Bianconeri faithful clearly growing frustrated with the No. 9’s below-par performances.

However, Spalletti immediately came to the striker’s defence after the match. Speaking at his post-match press conference, the Juventus boss made it clear that he continues to have faith in the Frenchman.

“I chose to get on Kolo Muani’s train because we wanted him strongly and brought him back to Turin. I’ll stay on that train until the end, and then at the end of the season we’ll see where it has taken us,” Spalletti said.

The Juventus coach also revealed his plans for Kolo Muani ahead of the upcoming away clash with Sassuolo.

“Kolo still needs to reach his best condition, but next time he will play again,” Spalletti added.

The message from the coach is therefore clear: despite the criticism and his slow start to the season, Kolo Muani is still firmly part of Spalletti’s plans. Juventus will now hope the French striker can finally respond on the pitch and repay the confidence shown in him.