Juventus began their Europa League campaign with the kind of authority that alters the mood around a season. The 5-0 win over NEC gave Luciano Spalletti’s side a commanding European opening and a response to the doubts created by recent disappointments.
It was the seventh time Juventus have won their first match of a season in one of Europe’s leading competitions by a margin of at least five goals. More than the statistic, however, the performance offered Spalletti evidence of a team ready to play with conviction.
Quick facts
- Juventus defeated NEC 5-0 in their Europa League opener.
- The result was Juventus’ seventh opening-season European win by five goals or more in a major continental competition.
- Luciano Spalletti praised the team’s clarity, aggression and collective unity.
- The coach also addressed injuries, goalkeeper Grabara and Randal Kolo Muani’s difficult spell.
Spalletti said he was extremely pleased with the way Juventus approached the night, describing their thinking from the opening whistle as exceptionally clear. In his view, the players had found the necessary answer after a run of poorer results.
“When you are in these situations, you have to dare, and that is what happened,” Spalletti said. “We showed that we have a united team group and plenty of aggression.”
The coach warned that the scoreline should not disguise the work required. He did not consider it an easy evening, but felt that a side carrying such belief can progress a long way.
Spalletti also reserved praise for Grabara and discussed Juventus’ injury situation. His comments then turned to Kolo Muani, whose contribution remains a point of attention within the squad.
The French forward, Spalletti said, possesses excellent running depth, but must bring greater strength into his individual battles. The Juventus coach believes Kolo Muani has the potential to do so, while recognising that the player is suffering from being unable to make the effective contribution he wants.
For Juventus, the European start now becomes part of the wider championship picture. A decisive night in the Europa League does not settle the season, but it restores a sense of force around Spalletti’s group and gives the coming league Sundays a different backdrop.
