Openda's Juventus future in doubt after social media post amid bench role
Lois Openda has broken his silence on his difficult situation at Juventus, posting a cryptic religious message on social media as he continues to be sidelined by manager Luciano Spalletti. The Belgian striker, on loan from RB Leipzig, has not started a match since February 21st against Como and his last appearance was a one-minute cameo against Roma on March 1st, having been an unused substitute in Juventus's last four matches.
On Instagram, Openda shared a story from a religious quotes account featuring a verse from the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 21. The verse, attributed to Jesus, states: "Everything you ask for in prayer, if you have faith, you will receive." While the post could relate to personal matters, it is widely interpreted by Italian media as a reflection of his challenging sporting moment, with the player hoping for a turnaround to regain playing time.
The 24-year-old arrived in Turin last summer on a loan deal with an obligation for Juventus to buy for a reported fee of 44 million euros. The move was seen as a significant investment to bolster the attacking line for the long term. However, his first season has failed to meet expectations. Across 33 appearances in all competitions, Openda has managed just two goals—one in a Champions League win against Bodø/Glimt and another in a Serie A victory over Roma—while averaging only 30 minutes per game.
His lack of impact has seen him fall behind other attacking options in Spalletti's plans during a critical phase of the season. Juventus face Atalanta this weekend in a crucial match for Champions League qualification, and it remains unclear if the manager will grant Openda an opportunity from the bench. The club's significant financial commitment, which becomes permanent at the season's end, adds a layer of complexity to his predicament.
Openda's previous form at RB Leipzig, where he scored 21 goals in the 2022-23 Bundesliga season, highlights the potential that prompted Juventus's investment. His current struggle for minutes raises questions about whether the club will seek to renegotiate the terms of the permanent transfer or integrate him more fully next season, should the obligation be fulfilled. For now, the player's public expression of faith appears to be a plea for patience and a chance to prove his worth on the pitch in the remaining fixtures.
