Juventus projected lineup vs Cagliari: Ronaldo takes hot streak back to Turin

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EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 28: Juventus player Miralem Pjanic and Empoli player Ismael Bennacer during the Serie A match between Empoli and Juventus at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 28, 2018 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Daniele Badolato – Juventus FC/Juventus FC via Getty Images) /

CM: Miralem Pjanic

At least he got the 6 days between matches off. Miralem Pjanic has continued to be a key creative presence in the Juventus midfield, but the guy could really use a break some time soon. Unfortunately that rest won’t come here due to Juve’s somewhat self-inflicted midfield issues. He will continue to play a vital role for Juventus in this match as they really lack a true replacement for Pjanic.

CM: Blaise Matuidi

Blaise Matuidi will once again be called upon to fill his normal role. He will be asked stifle opposing midfields with his tireless defensive presence and only occasionally drift forward to help the attack. His forays into the attacking third have actually been very helpful to Juve’s success so far this season. He has been able to alternate seamlessly between these positions all season as Juve’s needs have gradually shifted. No matter what end of the field he focuses on in this match he will be an important factor for Juve.

CM: Sami Khedira

Sami Khedira will make his first start in over a month out of necessity. Khedira has missed time with a quad injury that has cost him a significant early stretch of this season, but he will now be called upon to help Juventus secure 3 points. He most likely isn’t prepared to compete at a Champions League level following the injury, so Juve should use him for lesser assignments until it is clear that he is healthy.

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