TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti watches the Serie A clash with Atalanta at Allianz Stadium. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Spalletti said he couldn’t grasp why Jhon Lucumí’s late winner was nullified in the 2‑2 draw with Rennes, while insisting Woltemade and Kolo Muani must deliver more.
Speaking after Thursday’s Europa League tie in Turin, the coach noted Lucumí struck in the 88th minute after Teun Koopmeiners’ free‑kick flick, but VAR flagged an off‑side on the defender at the flick‑on.
‘I don’t get it, and I’ll review it,’ he said. ‘Seeing it in the locker room left me shocked and let down. The Rennes player could have cleared the ball; Lucumí didn’t block him. I thought I knew the rule, yet tonight raised doubts. The referee performed well overall, but missed this.’
Spalletti: ‘Woltemade and Kolo Muani can become three, not two.’
For my money, Spalletti should tighten his attacking drills. It marked Woltemade’s and Muani’s first competitive start together. The German set up Zeki Çelik’s opener and netted the equalising penalty, while Muani struggled for impact and was subbed ten minutes before the end.
‘They performed decently, but I expect more given their talent,’ Spalletti added. ‘Their combined output exceeds the sum of individual skills. Paired, they can become three rather than two.’
The coach praised the squad’s bounce‑back after a 3‑0 loss to Lazio on Sunday. ‘I’m pleased with their mindset; regrouping at this stage was tough. The boys embraced the challenge, gained ground and were rewarded, even without major errors leading to the two goals.’
He also lauded Rennes. ‘A solid side with swift, technical players and a strong academy. We must prove we’re superior, or we’ll keep running in circles.’
Spalletti urged greater bravery. ‘We often sit deep, but modern football demands pressing at the right moments and a mentality that seeks control.’