Khephren Thuram was the first Juventus player to resume pre-season, but he returned from his break with an injury, and the midfielder continues to recover from the problem as his teammates prepare for the season ahead.
He was left behind as Juventus travelled for their pre-season tour, meaning the midfielder has not been able to get any game time. However, the Bianconeri want to be patient with him. The club also left Jeff Ekhator behind as they travelled.
Juventus are keen to ensure both players recover fully before the season begins and do not intend to rush either of them back. However, Ekhator could return sooner than Thuram, even though the Frenchman has been dealing with his injury since last season.
Thuram faces a longer recovery
Tuttojuve reports that Thuram’s injury is not healing as quickly as the Bianconeri would want, and he could take a little longer to regain full fitness, even after the rest of the squad have returned to Turin.
The midfielder is one of the players Spalletti trusts, but if he does not regain his fitness soon, he could risk losing his place in the team if one of the midfielders competing for the position impresses during pre-season.
Thuram remains an important player for Juventus, but his current injury has prevented him from preparing alongside his teammates. The club will therefore need to manage his recovery carefully to ensure that he returns without suffering further problems.
Juventus remain patient
For now, the focus is on Thuram returning to his best physical condition, with Juventus unwilling to take unnecessary risks with his recovery. The same approach is being taken with Ekhator, who could also have an important role in the team during the coming campaign.
Ekhator is expected to play an important role in attack, making his return another positive development for the Bianconeri. However, the club will continue to prioritise the players’ fitness rather than rushing them back into action.
Thuram will hope to return soon enough to compete for his place in Spalletti’s team. With several midfielders looking to impress during pre-season, he will need to regain his fitness and form before the new campaign begins.
For now, Juventus will continue monitoring both players as they prepare for the season, with patience remaining the priority for their recoveries.
