Spalletti sets record straight and reaffirms total confidence in Kolo Muani

Luciano Spalletti sought to correct course on Friday at a press conference, two days after comments judged as cutting about Randal Kolo Muani following Juventus’s victory at Frosinone (0-1).

After that first Serie A match, the Turin coach sparked controversy by saying: “We went to get him and we know his value, but he must realize that if he hasn’t played in two years, there must be a reason.” Those words quickly circulated, just weeks after the French international’s transfer from PSG.

Facing journalists gathered on the eve of hosting Parma for matchday 2 of the league, Spalletti displayed some irritation. “I said so many things about Kolo Muani, you only retained one. For crying out loud…,” he fumed, before delivering a notably more positive message.

“We have total confidence in Kolo Muani’s qualities, we invested heavily in his recruitment,” the coach reminded. He nonetheless maintained a caveat about the Bondy native’s current form: “He’s a very good player for driving forward. When he gets going, it becomes difficult to catch up to his initial pace. However, he must be mindful that he hasn’t played much recently.”

Transferred to Juventus this summer, where he had already completed a notable loan spell two seasons earlier, Kolo Muani is seeking to rediscover his best level after a difficult period at PSG. The trip to Frosinone, concluded with a dull display despite the collective victory, was not the start he hoped for. The reception of Parma represents another opportunity to show his best form at an Allianz Stadium firmly behind him.