Andrea Pirlo’s reign got underway with an emphatic 3-0 win against Sampdoria. Unlike Maurizio Sarri’s last season, Juventus were far too convincing in their season opener against Sampdoria.
Here are the player ratings.
Wojciech Szczęsny (GK) -7
The Polish goalkeeper wasn’t in action for the majority of the game as Juventus dominated much possession, but was forced a crucial save in the second half.
Leonardo Bonucci (DF) – 7.5
The Italian centre-back was the anchor of the three defenders, and hence the onus was high on him in ball progression and distribution. Bonucci indeed ended up having a great game, attempting many long balls with a pass accuracy of over 90 per cent.
Georgio Chiellini (DF) – 7.5
Despite turning 36, Chiellini showed why he is still at the top of his game. The veteran centre-back was spotless on the defensive end while his on-the-ball qualities looked great.
Danilo (DF) – 7
Danilo had a good game as the right-sided centre-back and showed his defensive and crossing attributes.
Gianluca Frabotta (WB) – 6
Gianluca Frabotta had a decent game although he got dribbled past on a few occasions. He also came up with three attempted crosses.
Juan Cuadrado (WB) -7
Despite his defensive frailties, Cuadrado was free-flowing in the wing-back role as he played around three key-passes per game. It should be his position moving forward.
Weston McKennie (MF)- 8
The debutant might have etched his position as a starter after producing a stellar display. Keeping his offensive and defensive duties intact, the USMNT midfielder was a revelation in his first game.
Adrien Rabiot (MF): 7
Rabiot’s prominence is on the rise post the COVID break and the Frenchman produced another excellent performance. Playing as a pivot of three midfielders, Rabiot was robust as Sampdoria found it hard to breach through him.
Aaron Ramsey (MF)- 7.5
The former Arsenal star looks as if he were reborn under Pirlo as his creative edge tore Sampdoria apart. Being the free-roaming 8, Ramsey played as many as six key passes and assisted for Cristiano Ronaldo’s third goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo (FW) -7
Ronaldo looked to be in perfect shape as he had found the score sheet in the opening game of Serie A. He hit the crossbar once and fired a shot wide before making it to the score sheet with a brilliant finish.
Dejan Kulusevski (FW) – 8
The best debut performance he would have ever dreamed of. The Swedish youngster scored a fantastic goal while his dribbling prowess and the eye for creative passes stole the show.
Apart from starting eleven Mattia De Sciglio, Douglas Costa, Merih Demiral, Rodrigo Bentancur came as substitutes.
Andrea Pirlo – Manager – 8
The Italian boss might have installed the best system after Sarri’s departure, but it remains to be seen whether he can carry the winning momentum in the long run.
