Juventus owner John Elkann is increasingly involved in the club’s management following a period of internal strife and disappointing results, according to reports in the Italian press. The situation has led to direct discussions between Elkann and manager Luciano Spalletti, with the latter seeking greater control over sporting decisions.
Elkann initially envisioned a hands-off approach, delegating full control to appointed managers, mirroring a model seen in American sports ownership. However, the lack of success and internal friction have drawn him directly into the day-to-day running of the club. Spalletti’s requests extend beyond player recruitment, prompting Elkann to assess whether granting greater autonomy would be beneficial.
Central to the debate is the role of sporting director Damien Comolli, brought in from France, who has reportedly struggled to integrate effectively into the Juventus structure. His perceived lack of empathy and authority has created tension throughout the club, including a strained relationship with Spalletti, who is now pushing for more control over the sporting side of operations.
Matteo Tognozzi, currently at Roma, has been identified as a potential addition to the Juventus setup, which would likely support Spalletti’s vision. Elkann faces a difficult decision, as Comolli was his direct appointment and has significantly restructured the club’s internal management. However, the current approach is under scrutiny, with some questioning whether a data-driven “Moneyball” strategy is suitable for a club with Juventus’s history and traditions.
Spalletti has reportedly made a strong case to Elkann for a rapid turnaround, and the recent defeat to Fiorentina is said to have reinforced his arguments. He has even suggested that if there is any doubt about his leadership, his contract can be revisited. A meeting between Comolli and Juventus scouts was postponed, signaling a potential shift in power dynamics. The club is also seeing departures, with Sbravati, the youth sector head, joining Giuntoli at Atalanta. The situation highlights the intense pressure at Juventus, particularly following a loss.
