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Juventus projected lineup vs Sassuolo: Ronaldo continues goal chase, Dybala returns

By John Vaccaro

Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus FC) during the Serie A football match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on august 25, 2018 in Turin, Italy.Juventus FC won 2-0 over SS Lazio. (Photo by Massimiliano Ferraro/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus FC) during the Serie A football match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on august 25, 2018 in Turin, Italy.Juventus FC won 2-0 over SS Lazio. (Photo by Massimiliano Ferraro/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /
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Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus FC) during the Serie A football match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on august 25, 2018 in Turin, Italy. Juventus FC won 2-0 over SS Lazio. (Photo by Massimiliano Ferraro/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus FC) during the Serie A football match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on august 25, 2018 in Turin, Italy. Juventus FC won 2-0 over SS Lazio. (Photo by Massimiliano Ferraro/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /

ST: Cristiano Ronaldo

I wouldn’t have been surprised to see Cristiano Ronaldo rested in this one, but it appears that he will be getting the start on Sunday. Normally I would disagree with this move, but Ronaldo just got the last 2 weeks off as he chose to focus on Juve instead of playing for Portugal during the break. The positive of Ronaldo starting against Sassuolo is that he gets another chance to end the scoring drought that is currently hanging over his head.

He’ll probably be rested in advance of most Champions League matches, but it might be more important for him shift the focus away from his goal tally right now. It isn’t an issue fans should be worrying about, but if Ronaldo can score against Sassuolo then it can at least change the perception of his season and let the media and fans focus on the team’s success instead. It’s a risk, but it’s probably necessary right now.

GK: Mattia Perin

Wojchiech Szczesny has started every match for Juve so far this season, but it’s time to let Perin get some starts. His lack of playing time at Juve kept him out of the Italy starting lineup during the international break. Right now it is very important for Perin to have a chance to impress the Italy staff as every spot is up for grab during this transition period.

It is also extremely important for Juve to get a look at their goalkeeper of the future. At some point this will be his job permanently and Juve should give him a chance to claim that spot as soon as possible.

Next. 4 reasons Juventus should sell Paulo Dybala during the winter transfer window. dark

If Perin impresses against Sassuolo then we could see Gianluigi Buffon’s long-term replacement take over sooner than expected.

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