Luciano Spalletti acknowledges a mistake regarding Juventus summer signing Lois Openda, who has struggled with only two goals in 34 appearances this season.
Mentioned in this story
Spalletti admits ‘mistake’ with Juventus summer signing
Luciano Spalletti insists Lois Openda has shown ‘outstanding’ commitment even if he hasn’t played much: ‘It’s another mistake I’ve made…’
Openda has had a disappointing debut season at the Allianz Stadium, only netting twice in 34 appearances across all competitions.
The Belgium international joined Juventus on loan from RB Leipzig last summer, with an obligation to buy, and the clause was activated upon achieving a top-ten finish.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Openda has played barely 1,100 minutes across all competitions with Juventus this season, and just 688 minutes under Spalletti since October.
Questioned on the Belgian’s lack of playing time this term, Spalletti replied (via Sky Sport): “That is another mistake I’ve made. I have to make decisions, but I’m sure I’ll get something wrong.
Spalletti admitted that Openda has shown outstanding commitment despite his disappointing performance, acknowledging it as a mistake on his part.
Lois Openda has scored only two goals in 34 appearances across all competitions this season.
Spalletti's admission highlights the challenges Openda has faced in adapting to Juventus, raising questions about the club's summer signing strategy.
Foster Griffin struck out a season-high nine batters over seven innings, leading the Nationals to a 3-2 victory against the Marlins. Jacob Young contributed with a two-run homer in the first inning.
Misiorowski shines with 12 strikeouts as Brewers defeat Yankees 6-0
Brooklyn Nets set to select Caleb Wilson over Darryn Peterson in 2026 NBA Draft.
Shakira Austin leads Mystics to 68-65 win over Tempo in opener
The Philadelphia 76ers surprised teachers and healthcare workers by giving away 500 free tickets for Game 3 of their playoff series against the New York Knicks. Recipients included educators from Philadelphia and Camden, New Jersey, as well as healthcare workers from local hospitals.
Packers officially cut ties with Super Bowl champion kicker Brandon McManus
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Loïs Openda of Juventus during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“He is committed and demonstrates outstanding professionalism. I haven’t played him much because I thought others could give me better results.”
Openda is expected to get even less playing time in the final three games of the season as Dusan Vlahovic is back from an injury and could even start against Lecce tomorrow, as Spalletti admitted during his press conference today.
Juventus paid €3m for Openda’s loan move, while the fee for his permanent transfer is €42m.