For nearly a decade between 2012 and 2020, Juventus reigned supreme in Serie A, collecting titles almost at will while their rivals could only fight for scraps. But in recent years, the dominance of the “Old Lady” has waned. Financial strains—exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the expensive Cristiano Ronaldo era—forced the Turin club into a period of recalibration.
Now under Igor Tudor, Juventus enter the 2025 campaign with modest yet crucial objectives: secure Champions League qualification and, if possible, push their way back onto the podium. Fans still long for a return to glory, but there is a recognition that consistency and stability must come first.
Pre-Season Momentum for Juventus
Tudor’s side wrapped up their preparations with encouraging results, including a 2-1 win over Atalanta and another by the same scoreline against Borussia Dortmund. More than just the victories, it was the intensity of their play that stood out. The manager has instilled a more flexible and pressing-focused style, with Locatelli, Arthur, and Koopmeiners forming a well-balanced midfield that blends creativity with control.
On the flanks, Cambiaso and Kalulu are expected to play dual roles, offering width in attack while shoring up the defense. The addition of Jonathan David has further sharpened Juve’s attack, making them less predictable and more dangerous in transition.
Parma’s Return to the Spotlight
Parma, once a giant of the 1990s, are still adjusting to life back in Serie A after promotion two seasons ago. Last year they did enough to secure survival, finishing five points clear of relegation danger. For a club still rebuilding, that stability was viewed as success.
They kicked off their new campaign with a 2-0 Coppa Italia victory over Pescara, a performance that highlighted their growing cohesion under manager Cristian Chivu. Defensively, Parma lean on Enrico Del Prato while recent signing Alessandro Vogliacco adds depth at the back. Offensively, players like Adrian Benedyczak and Ange-Yoan Bonny will be tasked with finding opportunities, likely through counterattacks against Juve’s expected dominance of possession.
Clash of Styles and Expectations
This fixture is more than a routine league meeting. For Juventus, it’s about reasserting authority and setting the tone for a season that demands both resilience and ambition. For Parma, it’s a test of whether they can frustrate one of Italy’s giants and prove they belong in the top flight not just as survivors, but as competitors.
The tactical battle will be telling: Tudor’s high press and quick transitions against Chivu’s disciplined, counter-focused structure. Juventus’ superior depth gives them the edge, but Parma’s determination could make things difficult—particularly if they can withstand early pressure and capitalize on set-piece chances.
Prediction
Juventus’ recent home record speaks volumes—11 straight victories in Serie A, including a previous win over Parma in Turin. By contrast, Parma have struggled away from home, losing 11 of their last 18 trips.
With that in mind, Juventus look primed to control the game and secure a comfortable result. Expect a strong showing from Jonathan David on debut, with support from Juve’s midfield creativity proving too much for the visitors.
Prediction: Juventus 3:0 Parma