Serie A Preview: Juventus New Signings Debut, Varane Out for Como, Motta to Lock Wits with Fabregas

On August 20 at 2:45 AM, the first round of Serie A will see Juventus host newly promoted side Como in Turin. The past rivalry between Motta and Fabregas sparked significant controversy, and now as managers, their confrontation is highly anticipated.

The focus on Juventus is their “debut.” In the summer transfer window, the club underwent significant changes with Allegri’s departure and Motta’s arrival, marking his official debut match. Additionally, four new signings—goalkeeper Di Gregorio, defender Cabal, midfielders Khephren Thuram, and Douglas Luiz—are expected to start, with a combined initial transfer fee (including loan fees) of 90 million euros, potentially exceeding 100 million euros with additional costs. Their performance is highly anticipated.

According to Italian media, the highlight for Como is the “Spanish influence.” After promotion to Serie A, the club spent over 40 million euros in the summer transfer window, bringing in Varane, Belotti, Engelschart, and goalkeeper Reina. The 37-year-old former Barcelona, Arsenal, and Spain star, Cesc Fabregas, has taken over as head coach, emphasizing possession-based play, which differs from most other Serie A teams. Their effectiveness is a point of interest.

In terms of form, Juventus had one win, one draw, and two losses in pre-season friendlies. Apart from defeating their reserve team, they suffered defeats against Nuremberg and Atletico Madrid, indicating significant integration issues. Como’s pre-season record was two wins, one draw, and one loss, showing slightly better form, but they were knocked out on penalties after drawing 1-1 with Serie B side Sampdoria in the first round of the Coppa Italia, affecting morale.

In head-to-head meetings, the two sides have officially clashed 29 times, with Juventus winning 13, drawing 12, and losing 4, scoring 37 goals and conceding 21, holding a clear advantage. However, given the significant gap in league levels over recent years, with their last competitive meeting dating back to February 22, 2003, historical records offer limited reference value.

In terms of player availability, both teams have absentees. Juventus are without midfielder Mirotic and forward Milik due to injury. For Como, star player Varane is sidelined, while Mazzitelli is also unavailable due to fitness concerns, alongside Iovini who is suspended.

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