Juventus Face Mounting Injury Crisis Following Derby d’Italia

TURIN, 17 February 2026 — Juventus Football Club is currently navigating a significant personnel crisis as the medical department at the Allianz Stadium struggles to manage a growing list of sidelined stars. Following a bruising Derby d’Italia encounter against Inter Milan last weekend, the Bianconeri have confirmed several new absences that could impact their pursuit of silverware both domestically and in European competition.
Medical Update: Emil Holm and Jonathan David Sidelined
The most recent blow to Thiago Motta’s squad involves Swedish full-back Emil Holm. The club officially confirmed on 15 February that Holm sustained a “low-to-medium grade myotendinous injury to the soleus muscle” during the clash with Inter. He is expected to undergo further evaluation in two weeks, effectively ruling him out of the immediate fixture list.
Adding to the offensive concerns, striker Jonathan David has been ruled out of the upcoming trip to Istanbul to face Galatasaray. David suffered a groin injury during Saturday’s league action, leaving the Turin giants thin in the final third. These names join a crowded treatment room that already includes:
- Vasilije Adžić: Expected return by the 4th matchday of the current cycle.
- Timothy Weah: Currently undergoing rehabilitation for a muscular issue.
- Khéphren Thuram: Sidelined with a recent knock.
- Arkadiusz Milik: Continuing his long-term recovery process.
Matthijs de Ligt Recovery Progress
In a rare piece of positive news for the Juventus faithful, reports on 16 February indicate that former defender Matthijs de Ligt—whose potential return to the club has been a subject of intense speculation—is making “good progress” from a back injury. While he remains out of action for now, his recovery timeline suggests a return to the pitch by next month.
Transfer Rumours: Osimhen and Kalulu
Despite the closure of the winter window, Juventus remains active in the market headlines. Reports from Gianluca Di Marzio suggest that the club made two distinct attempts to bring Victor Osimhen to Turin, though a deal failed to materialise under the previous management of Cristiano Giuntoli. Meanwhile, Premier League giants Manchester United have reportedly expressed interest in Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, as the English club looks to bolster its backline with proven European talent.
Historical Context: The Most Decorated Club in Italy
While current form is hampered by injuries, Juventus remains the most successful club in Italian football history. They hold the unique distinction of being the first club to win all three major UEFA club competitions.
Juventus FC Major Honours
| Competition | Titles | Winning Years (Selected) |
|---|---|---|
| Serie A (Italian Champions) | 36 | 1905, 1925–26, 1930–31, 1994–95, 2011–12 to 2019–20 |
| UEFA Champions League / European Cup | 2 | 1984–85, 1995–96 |
| UEFA Europa League / UEFA Cup | 3 | 1976–77, 1989–90, 1992–93 |
| Coppa Italia | 15 | 1937–38, 1941–42, 1958–59, 2023–24 |
| UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup | 1 | 1983–84 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2 | 1984, 1996 |
| Intercontinental Cup | 2 | 1985, 1996 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many Champions League titles has Juventus won?
Juventus has won the UEFA Champions League (formerly the European Cup) twice, in 1985 and 1996.
Who is the current manager of Juventus?
As of February 2026, the first team is led by Thiago Motta, who took over following the departure of Massimiliano Allegri.
When is Emil Holm expected to return?
Following his injury against Inter Milan on 15 February 2026, Holm will undergo new tests in approximately two weeks to determine his exact recovery timeline. He is expected to miss at least the remainder of February.
Is Jonathan David playing against Galatasaray?
No. Jonathan David has been officially ruled out of the match against Galatasaray due to a groin injury sustained on 14 February 2026.
