The excitement surrounding Juventus’ final home match of the 2025-26 Serie A campaign just got a significant boost after manager Luciano Spalletti revealed a squad list containing two headline-grabbing surprises. The Bianconeri welcome Fiorentina to the Allianz Stadium on matchday 37 knowing a full-strength roster is available for what could be a pivotal late-season showdown. The inclusion of Arkadiusz Milik and Juan Cabal turned heads, as both players have endured spells away from the spotlight this term.
Milik’s name on the team sheet generated immediate buzz. The Polish striker has been sidelined for extended periods due to recurring injury setbacks, making his availability a welcome sight for fans and teammates alike. His last competitive appearance came months ago, and while he has been building fitness in training, few expected him to be thrust back into the matchday frame so swiftly. The decision suggests Spalletti has full confidence in the forward’s recovery and may view his aerial presence as a tactical asset against a physically robust Fiorentina defence. Similarly, Cabal’s recall raised eyebrows. The Colombian defender has struggled for game time this season, often omitted from selection in favor of more established centre-back partnerships. His return indicates either an injury concern among the regular starters or a deliberate effort by Spalletti to rotate the squad and reward the 22-year-old’s work on the training ground.
Adding to the manager’s positive news, Khephren Thuram has shaken off a fitness concern to be included. The French midfielder followed an individualized training plan throughout the week due to what the club described as “suboptimal physical condition,” yet Spalletti confirmed he is at his disposal. Thuram’s dynamism and ability to carry the ball through midfield have been instrumental this season, and his presence will be crucial in breaking down a Fiorentina side known for packing the central areas. His recovery, even if he only features from the bench, offers a major tactical boost.
The full 25-man list reads like a who’s who of Juventus’ deep squad: goalkeepers Perin, Di Gregorio, and Pinsoglio; defenders Bremer, Gatti, Kalulu, Cambiaso, Holm, Cabal, and Kelly; midfielders Locatelli, Koopmeiners, Thuram, McKennie, Miretti, Adzic, and Kostic; attackers Vlahovic, Yildiz, Conceicao, Zhegrova, Boga, Openda, David, and the returning Milik. The array of options underlines the strength Spalletti can call upon, even allowing for any late adjustments.
The match carries substantial weight. Although the exact Serie A standings entering this round are complex, Juventus are firmly in the hunt for a Champions League qualification spot. Dropping points at home to a mid-table rival like Fiorentina would be a significant blow, especially with the season’s finale on the horizon. The Viola, however, are not to be underestimated; they have troubled top sides on the road this campaign and possess a disciplined defensive structure that could frustrate the home side. The midday kick-off adds another layer of intensity, with the Allianz Stadium expected to be a cauldron of support for the final home appearance of the campaign.
Vlahovic, in particular, will be under the spotlight. The Serbian striker has a complicated history with his former club, and he will be eager to add to his goal tally. His partnership with the creative forces of Conceicao and Yildiz could be key to unlocking a Fiorentina rearguard that has conceded the fewest goals among teams outside the top four. The potential introduction of Milik offers a different dimension – a classic number nine who can hold up the ball and provide a focal point, perhaps in the closing stages if the match is tight.
Defensively, the return of Cabal provides cover for the centre-backs, but Spalletti may opt for his established pairing of Bremer and Gatti with an eye on continuity. The full-back areas are also well stocked, with Cambiaso and Holm pushing for starts. The midfield trio of Locatelli, Koopmeiners, and Thuram looks formidable on paper, blending grit, creativity, and box-to-box energy. Should Thuram be limited, McKennie or Miretti could easily slot in without a significant drop in quality.
For the fans, this match is a chance to salute a team that has battled through a demanding season. Despite the ups and downs, the squad’s resilience has kept them in contention for domestic and European targets. Spalletti’s man-management has been praised throughout the campaign, and his decision to include Milik and Cabal could be seen as a gesture of trust in the whole group – a signal that every player has a role as the season reaches its climax.
Behind the scenes, the medical and fitness staff deserve credit for getting the squad to this point. The careful handling of Thuram’s workload shows a modern approach to player management, ensuring he is available without risking a longer-term setback. Milik’s gradual reintegration into full training has been monitored meticulously, and his appearance on the bench – or perhaps even a short cameo – would represent a significant milestone in his recovery journey.
As the referee’s whistle approaches, the tactical chess match between Spalletti and his Fiorentina counterpart will be fascinating. The home side are expected to dominate possession, but Fiorentina’s counter-attacking threat cannot be ignored. The inclusion of so many attacking options on the bench means Juventus can adapt to any match scenario, whether chasing a goal or protecting a lead. The stage is set for a memorable afternoon at the Allianz Stadium. Based on reporting from Tuttosport.
