Dusan Vlahovic’s goal was not enough to restore confidence within Luciano Spalletti’s side, as the Italian coach delivered a clear and honest assessment after the match.
Speaking to Sky, Spalletti highlighted a key tactical issue: “We are missing a playmaker who can operate in tight spaces. Around the opponent’s penalty area, it becomes a swamp—if certain moves don’t come off, players start forcing plays, which only increases frustration and difficulty.”
Advertisement
In simpler terms, Juventus lack creativity in the final third—raising an obvious question: could Bernardo Silva be the solution?
A Dream Target for Juventus
It remains uncertain whether the Portuguese star was truly on Spalletti’s mind, but the connection is far from random. Bernardo Silva is expected to leave Manchester City at the end of the season when his contract expires, making him available on a free transfer.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, there have already been initial contacts between Spalletti and the player to explore the possibility of a move to Turin.
For Juventus, Bernardo Silva represents one of the top priorities in an upcoming transfer window focused on raising the technical quality of the squad. However, the deal is far from straightforward.
His current salary—estimated at around €18 million gross per year—poses a significant obstacle, especially if he is to consider a move to Serie A, where financial structures differ.
Advertisement
Additionally, Juventus would face stiff competition from elite European clubs, as well as financially powerful sides from MLS and the Saudi Pro League.
Tactical Fit and Added Value
From a tactical perspective, there are few doubts about Bernardo Silva potential impact. He would likely slot straight into Spalletti’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation as the central attacking midfielder.
His versatility is a major asset; capable of playing across multiple attacking roles, Silva could also be deployed on the wings or even as a false nine when needed.
Beyond his positional flexibility, Silva would bring intelligence, composure, and technical excellence—qualities that perfectly align with Spalletti’s football philosophy, which emphasizes ball possession, high pressing, and quick vertical transitions.
His presence would also free up young talent Kenan Yildiz, allowing him to move fluidly across the attacking line without fixed reference points.
In many ways, Silva could be the missing piece Juventus need to unlock defenses more consistently. Whether the club can overcome financial and competitive hurdles remains to be seen, but the idea of pairing Spalletti’s system with Silva’s creativity is undeniably compelling.