Rapid Recap | Round 1: Highlanders vs Crusaders
· Sydney Morning Herald
Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli said Bianconeri players are ‘happy’ with Luciano Spalletti and his methods and tells Andrea Cambiaso to ‘remain calm and work well’ despite recent criticism from the fans.
Locatelli unconventionally previewed Juventus’ upcoming match against Inter at a press conference, replacing coach Spalletti.
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Juventus and Inter have had an entire week to prepare for this fixture as their European commitments will resume next week in the Champions League knockout play-off.
Inter vs. Juventus – Locatelli’s pre-match press conference
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 02: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Coppa Italia match between Udinese Calcio and Juventus at Allianz Stadium on December 02, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“Clearly, we were able to refresh and prepare for tomorrow; we are ready,” Locatelli said via Ilbianconero.com.
“We are aware of the importance of the game at all levels. We know Inter are strong and have a great coach. They’ve played together for a long time, and they are mature, which we’ve lacked a bit. There are some dirty games you have to win. We must keep this personality and put in a great performance tomorrow.
“To be the Juventus captain, besides being one of the biggest dreams, is a responsibility I carry with me daily. I remain humble and available to others. A captain must set the example, and I try to do it with my family as well.”
Locatelli has become a key player for Juventus under Spalletti, which wasn’t necessarily guaranteed given that the coach had omitted the 28-year-old from the Italy squad at the 2024 Euros.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“I listen to the club and the coach. I’m in shape, the coach has trusted me, and it’s been important,” Locatelli said.
“We are playing better and I’m happy with what we are trying to do.
“We can always improve. The coach keeps telling us we have room for improvement. It all starts with training. We are a young team, and we lack a bit of maturity, but we are aware of our quality.”
Juventus have climbed the table under Spalletti and have an exciting playing style, but the coach’s contract expires in June. Spalletti was appointed in October to replace Igor Tudor. Would Locatelli be happy to see the coach extend his stay beyond June?
“It’s not up to me to decide that; I can only say we are very happy with him and the way he works with us,” Locatelli replied.
“He doesn’t like being talked about. He even told me earlier that I shouldn’t talk about him. I can say that we are very happy with him.”
Andrea Cambiaso was booed by Juventus fans when he was subbed off in their last two Serie A matches against Napoli and Lazio.
“I have a solid bond with Andre; he’s a lad who listens,” Locatelli noted.
“He must only remain calm and work well. He puts in the utmost commitment, and he never holds back. Only the pitch will prove it. He’s a lad who deserves to be here; he’s strong and has personality.”
Locatelli has reunited with Jeremie Boga, who moved to Juventus from Nice in January.
“It’s been nice to reunite with him. We spent three important years at Sassuolo,” said the Juventus midfielder.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Luis Henrique of FC Internazionale celebrates with Federico Dimarco after scoring his team fifth goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“I think he can help us; he’s strong in one-on-one, and he can be decisive. It’s what the coach kept repeating at Sassuolo; he must be aware of what he can do. I’m happy for him.”
Tomorrow, Locatelli will face off against some of his Italy teammates, including Federico Dimarco, one of the best performers in Serie A this season.
“I’m very fond of him, just as I am with the other Inter players I know well. He’s performing well, and he deserves his success. He faced criticism, but he’s doing his talking on the pitch. Naturally, I hope he isn’t at his best tomorrow,” Locatelli concluded.
