Juventus projected lineup vs Empoli: Ronaldo and Dybala lead the attack

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TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 29: Federico Bernardeschi of Juventus competes for the ball with Allan of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Juventus and SSC Napoli at Allianz Stadium on September 29, 2018 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Tullio Puglia – Juventus/Juventus FC via Getty Images) /

CM: Blaise Matuidi

As usual Blaise Matuidi will be called upon in Juve’s midfield thanks to his defensive contributions. Also, he pretty much has to start if Pjanic doesn’t because Juve only has 3 central midfielders that are healthy right now. He even might get to drift forward a bit if Pjanic is rested, especially with Juve starting 3 centre-backs. Matuidi has been a stud for Juve since they brought him in last season and I see no reason why that shouldn’t continue here.

CM: Rodrigo Bentancur

Massimiliano Allegri made sure to mention Rodrigo Bentancur in his pregame press conference and I think that means Bentancur will get the start here. He has played well for Juve since he started getting regular playing time.

Not only has he earned himself a start here, but Miralem Pjanic has really earned a day off. Pjanic hasn’t been rested in over a month and Bentancur’s current form should give Juve the opportunity to let their playmaker take a break. Bentancur hasn’t been required to handle too much with Pjanic handling the playmaking and Matuidi taking on defensive duties so this match could even give us a chance to see how he deals with greater responsibility.

CAM: Federico Bernardeschi

I might be wrong on this one, but Bernardeschi has to start eventually, right? He has impressed in most of his appearances in spite of the fact that he has only gotten 4 starts this season. I found his performance against Young Boys especially impressive as he was asked to play as an attacking midfielder for the first time all year and was constantly a threat in that match. That performance was the reason I believe we will see this formation again on Saturday. I hope Bernardeschi gets the start here. He has absolutely earned it and is a young player Juve should be developing. If he doesn’t then you can expect to see some point deductions from Allegri’s rating tomorrow.

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