Former Juventus defender Mark Iuliano has called for the club to include more Italian players in their squad, although he also expressed confidence in the club’s current leadership to make appropriate decisions for the future.
Juventus were once the primary source of players for the Italian national team, but their decline in performance since 2020 has significantly reduced that influence.
In recent seasons, the club have increasingly relied on foreign signings, with Damien Comolli reportedly prioritising players from outside Serie A during the last summer transfer window.
While the Bianconeri still possess several of the strongest players in Italy, their starting lineup contains relatively few Italian nationals, reflecting a broader shift in recruitment strategy in recent years.
Debate over Juventus squad identity
Looking ahead, Juventus are expected to continue targeting a mix of domestic and international talent in the transfer market. Based on the current reported targets, the club could further increase the number of foreign players in their squad this summer.
However, Iuliano has suggested that maintaining a stronger Italian presence would benefit both Juventus and the national team. Despite this view, he stressed that recruitment decisions ultimately rest with those in charge of the club’s sporting structure.
He said via Tuttomercatoweb:
“Personally, I would like a few more Italian players in the squad. I think I understand that we will go in this direction. We need it for our national team too. But Carnevali doesn’t need our advice, he knows exactly what Juventus needs. He’s a fit person for the role he holds and a manager who knows football very well; I think he has clear ideas and his story speaks for itself. I think it will make us all feel more at ease and that it will also be able to surprise us with some names that no one expects today.”
Future recruitment direction
The comments highlight an ongoing discussion around Juventus’ identity and recruitment strategy, as the club continues balancing performance goals with national development concerns.
Ultimately, Juventus are expected to prioritise quality and suitability within its system, regardless of nationality, as they look to return to consistent success domestically and in Europe.
