Multiple reports from Italy indicate that UEFA is likely to impose a one-season ban on Juventus from European competition due to financial irregularities. The club finds itself in trouble once again.
UEFA poses a potential ban threat to Juventus. Serie A penalized the Italian club in the 2022-23 season by deducting 15 points. They attributed the punishment to irregularities concerning their transfer values from 2019 to 2021.
Gazzetta reports that the issue of irregularities could potentially tempt UEFA to ban Juventus from their competitions. UEFA holds the authority to impose bans on clubs for “unsporting conduct” in their competitions.
In January 2023, the Italian club faced sanctions from Italian soccer’s governing body (FIGC). However, in April 2023, the 15-point penalty imposed on Juventus was reversed, as Italy’s highest sporting court ordered a re-examination of the case. This decision allowed Juventus to regain points and climb up the table.
Cristiano Ronaldo‘s former club finished in 7th place in Serie A, accumulating 62 points. As a result, they are eligible to participate in the UEFA Conference League.
No official statement has been issued by UEFA regarding the matter, and it is anticipated that they will provide additional updates closer to the start of the season.
Players that will move from Juventus due to UEFA Ban
The Juventus board is understandably nervous about the potential ban from UEFA. It could have significant repercussions for the club. A ban would not only lead to a loss of revenue from European competitions but could also trigger key players to seek moves away from the club.
Several star players at Juventus may not be content with the prospect of missing out on UEFA competitions and could explore options to leave the club. The uncertainty surrounding the situation may force Juventus to consider selling these players at reduced prices.
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It’s important to note that the decision to leave would ultimately be up to the individual players and their motivations. Let’s examine some of the players who could potentially seek transfers:
Wojciech Szczesny
The Polish goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczęsny, has been a consistent presence for Juventus since he arrived in 2017. If Juventus were to face a ban from UEFA, Szczęsny might consider seeking an exit from the club in pursuit of a final lucrative contract. Szczesny’s current contract will expire in June 2025.
Daniele Rugani
The 28-year-old center-back, whose contract with Juventus expires in June 2024, will likely be eager to join a club that can provide regular UEFA club competition. If Juventus faces a ban from UEFA, they may encounter difficulties in retaining his services. Given his desire for consistent involvement in European competitions, the center-back might explore opportunities elsewhere to fulfill his aspirations.
Federico Chiesa
The highly-rated left-winger will have numerous options available to him if he decides to seek an exit in the summer. Chiesa will prioritize clubs participating in UEFA competitions. A potential ban on Juventus may compel him to explore opportunities outside his home country. It should be noted that his contract with the Italian club expires in June 2025.
Manuel Locatelli
The 25-year-old Italian midfielder, who becomes a free agent in July 2023, is currently being pursued by Juventus to secure his renewal and retain a key player in their midfield. However, if Juventus faces a ban, the midfielder will actively seek an exit and explore other opportunities.
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Juventus fans will experience anxiety in the coming months, hoping that UEFA does not punish a case that has been reversed by the Italian governing bodies. Their only option is to remain hopeful for a favorable outcome.
