Juventus v United line-ups

Juventus and Manchester United have released their line-ups for the Champions League clash.

Juventus: 4-3-3

Bench: Perin, De Sciglio, Barzagli, Benatia, Kean, Bernardeschi, Costa

Juve will utilize a very balanced 4-3-3. There’s a lot of arguments being made about this line-up in the last few hours before the game. The main one floating around is that many are not content with Bonucci getting a starring role after some mistakes that led to goals in the past few games. Putting everything that has happened so far aside, I think it’s the right choice to let Bonucci play. He bleeds black & white, knows how important of a goal the UCL is for this team and will surely give it his all. He’s an amazing passer which helps us play from the back and has had a lot of success scoring in set pieces. We definitely need someone of his profile to go far in this competition. Sure, there’s no denying that he’s made some mistakes this season but not all of the blame should be placed on him.

Another argument being made is that Bernardeschi should have started over Cuadrado in the right flank. I get it, Bernardeschi has been one of the most interesting to watch so far this season and we can’t get enough of him. Although, once again I think Allegri made the right call. Let’s not forget how important good substitutions can have in the game. Bernardeschi can be used as an amazing super-sub. Costa is another player that can have a similar impact if substituted in. Juventus has the advantage when it comes to the quality of players on the bench.

Another thing to point out is how important Matuidi’s play will be for this formation. Ronaldo is a player that shouldn’t need to track back as much and stay in positions to score. Matuidi has an incredible work rate which allows him to be all over the field and can definitely make up for Ronaldo staying forward more often than not. Best of luck to every Juve player on the field today.

Manchester United: 4-2-3-1

Bench: Fred, Pereira, Darmian, Chong, Bailey, Herrera, Romero

It seems that United are going all out to get all three points from this matchup with the attacking heavy 4-2-3-1. I think Juventus will have a lot of chances to cut through this formation. Pogba has shown that he does not perform as well in a two man midfield compared to three. The players placed up front will have to do a lot of tracking back which will surely take a toll near the end of the match. If Juve are able to control the midfield, they have a great chance of winning all three points up for grabs. Regardless, United should not be underestimated with all the talent they possess.

Forza Juve!