Juventus had a season to forget in 2022-23 after finishing seventh in the Serie A following 10-point deductions due to financial irregularities. They qualified for the UEFA Conference League but were forced out of the competitions due to violation of FFP rules. Allegri and his men entered the new season with a fresh mindset and missing out on Europe meant that the club could clearly focus on winning a record Serie A title.
The Old Lady suffered several injury setbacks at the start of the season. However, they managed to cope and are one of the title challengers for Serie A 2023-24. Juventus have been impressive in the defence and managed to get some results. Here are some stats that show why they are title contenders this season.
Attacking zones
Juventus have similar stats in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 season. The numbers are quite similar and Allegri and his men are getting the results. In the current season, there is a bit of change in the attacking zones. Angel Di Maria’s departure has changed the attacking focus from the right side to the left side. This can be observed by looking at the above visual. Most of the progressive passes into the penalty box have been attempted from the left.
The crossing zones also indicate the same for Juventus. Allegri’s men average around 15 crosses per match and accurately deliver 40% of these crosses. The success rate is a bit high this season from the previous one. Once again the left sid has been more productive and players have managed to connect with the ball in dangerous attacking zones.
The team averages 13.8 shots per match in the current season and 32% of these shots have been on target. Things were similar last season but the scoring zones have been more impressive. Players have found plenty of space inside the opposition’s penalty box to score a goal. Some of these are even tap-ins from inside the six-yard box.
Defensive masterclass
One of the main reasons behind Juventus’ success this season is the improvement in defence. Last season, the team conceded 0.87 goals per match. This season, the numbers are even lower at 0.58 goals per match. Juventus have kept six clean sheets in the last seven games and comfortably sit in second position.
Allegri and his men have a huge task in hand. Juventus have a young squad and maintaining this stability won’t be easy. The manager is experienced and will look to make full use of his resources in a Europe-less season.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine
