Juventus projected lineup vs Chievo: Who will start in Ronaldo’s debut?
By John Vaccaro
Left Winger- Mario Mandzukic
I believe that this spot remains Mandzukic’s to lose. Mandzukic has been nothing short of incredible while adapting to a new role in this formation. His goal tallies have suffered from the time he spends playing on the wing, but his efforts helping the defense, defending corners, and heading balls down to teammates have been of the utmost importance to Juventus. He towers over right backs and constantly provides a threat at the back post and a target for the winger playing opposite him.
Attacking Midfielder- Paulo Dybala
The star of the future for Juventus will play in his preferred role on opening night. Paulo Dybala will be playing just behind the striker, which is part of the reason Juve switched to this formation in the first place. Dybala is clearly more comfortable in this role than as an out and out striker. Juve will try to stay in this formation for as longs possible to keep their young star at his best. As long as this is Juve’s formation we can expect to see Dybala playing just behind the lone striker. He has been incredible in the role, contributing 22 goals in league games last year. This will be Dybala’s spot in the team for as long as he stays with Juventus.
Right Winger- Douglas Costa
Juventus was so impressed by Douglas Costa during his loan last season that they decided to make his stay with the team permanent. They signed him permanently specifically because they want him to start in this spot for them for some time to come and for good reason. Costa was awesome last year even when sharing time with Juan Cuadrado and Federico Bernardeschi. This year we can expect to see him continue to make this position his and establish himself as the clear cut starter on the right wing.