In a surprising turn of events, Juventus head coach Thiago Motta made headlines by leaving big summer signing Douglas Luiz on the bench for the opening match of the Serie A season. Instead, he opted to start the young talent Samuel Mbangula, who will make his first league appearance at just 20 years old.
Mbangula, known for his incredible speed and versatility, is seen as a promising player ready to make his mark on the first team. After joining Juventus from Anderlecht’s youth setup in 2020, Mbangula has quickly progressed through the club’s youth ranks, moving from the Under-17s to the Under-19s, and eventually stepping up to the Next Gen team. His journey has been impressive, and now he’s primed for his debut in the senior squad.
Originally a forward, Mbangula has the physicality and skill to play various attacking roles. He made a name for himself on the field at a young age, playing against older opponents from the age of 15 or 16. Under the guidance of coaches like Montero and Brambilla, he honed his abilities and is now ready to shine on a bigger stage.
Motta expressed confidence in Mbangula, stating, “He is on the pitch because he deserves it. He has entered the match very well and can help the team today.” His faith in the young player reflects a growing trend in football where clubs are increasingly trusting youth talents to deliver in crucial matches.
This decision not only highlights Motta’s commitment to building a youthful and dynamic team, but it also sets the tone for what fans can expect from Juventus this season. The inclusion of Mbangula over seasoned stars promises a more exhilarating style of play and showcases the club’s dedication to developing young talent.