Joao Mario’s transfer to Juventus was supposed to be a fresh chapter in his career — a chance to prove himself on one of Europe’s biggest stages. Yet, just a few months into his spell with the Bianconeri, things are not going according to plan. The Portuguese wing-back, who arrived from FC Porto with high expectations, is finding it increasingly difficult to secure a spot in Igor Tudor’s starting lineup.
When Juventus signed Mario, many fans saw him as the perfect solution to strengthen the flanks. His speed, tactical discipline, and attacking instincts made him a promising addition to the squad. However, instead of becoming a key figure, Joao Mario has spent more time watching from the bench than playing on the pitch.
Igor Tudor’s Doubts and Tactical Choices
Head coach Igor Tudor appears unconvinced by the former Porto player’s performances. Despite his versatility and potential, Tudor has consistently favored other options for the wing-back position, even in crucial matches. Players like Pierre Kalulu have been given the nod ahead of Mario, a decision that highlights the Portuguese player’s declining role in the team.
In Juventus’ recent away clash against Real Madrid, Mario was once again left out of the starting eleven. It was a decision that surprised many but also sent a clear message — he is currently far from being part of Tudor’s main tactical plans.
So far, Joao Mario has accumulated less than 300 minutes of playing time this season. That statistic alone paints a grim picture of his situation in Turin. To make matters worse, his name has disappeared from the matchday squad list in several consecutive games, sparking speculation about his future.
Was the Swap Deal a Mistake?
The decision to bring in Joao Mario came at a cost. Juventus allowed Alberto Costa to leave in order to complete the transfer — a move that is now being questioned by fans and pundits alike. Costa, who has been performing impressively since his departure, seems to be thriving elsewhere, while Mario continues to struggle for form and consistency in Italy.
Reports from within the club suggest that Tudor was never entirely convinced about the swap deal. Sources claim the Croatian coach had preferred to keep Alberto Costa in Turin, but the management saw Joao Mario as a more long-term investment. Now, with Mario struggling to adapt, that decision is starting to look increasingly costly.
Growing Frustration and an Uncertain Future
For a player once touted as one of Portugal’s brightest full-backs, the current situation is far from ideal. Mario’s lack of rhythm and confidence has affected his performances whenever he does get a chance to play. Fans who once celebrated his arrival are now questioning whether he fits Juventus’ style of play at all.
The season is still long, and there is time for redemption. However, unless Joao Mario manages to impress in the coming weeks, he risks being labeled as one of Juventus’ transfer disappointments of the season.
For Igor Tudor, the situation also raises uncomfortable questions. Was the decision to back this transfer truly his, or was it one made by the boardroom? Either way, the early signs suggest Juventus might have lost more than they gained in this deal.
A Critical Period Ahead
As the Bianconeri aim to fight for trophies in both Serie A and the Champions League, the pressure is mounting on every player to perform — and Mario is no exception. If he wants to revive his Juventus career, he must seize every opportunity that comes his way, show greater consistency in training, and convince Tudor that he deserves a place in the lineup.
Otherwise, this move could quickly become another reminder of how even the most promising transfers can fail to live up to expectations in Turin.
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