Former Italy & Fiorentina coach hails Juventus striker Vlahovic as “one of the best in Europe’

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Sam Wilson | Last updated Sep 23, 2025 8:23 AM ET

Former Italy and Fiorentina head coach Cesare Prandelli has described Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic as “one of the best strikers in Europe.”

Speaking in an interview with Tuttosport, with quotes via FiorentinaNews, Prandelli described the Serbian as “a champion,” before adding “but I’d like him to score even more goals.”

Prandelli, who has also spent time in charge at Parma, Roma, Genoa and more, added that Vlahovic “should not shy away from the attack, there’s no point in asking him to link or contribute to the play.”

Prandelli plays down Mutu & Vlahovic comparisons

The situation of Vlahovic has been compared to that of former striker Adrian Mutu. The Romanian was close to a move to Roma while Prandelli was head coach but the Italian vetoed the move and Mutu remained in Viola colours for the meantime.

“They are two different cases,” Prandelli said, “Adrian remained happily in Florence and, in that case, the club’s position was very clear.”

The coach continued, “The Della Valles did a great job of holding out before the Champions League qualifiers.

“Dusan has an ongoing contract and an undefined situation but neither he nor Juve are in a rush to make a decision now.”

Vlahovic was linked away from Juventus throughout the summer, with clubs such as Milan, Inter and Manchester United all touted as possible destinations for the Serbian.

However, he remained in Turin and has scored four goals in five appearances in all competitions so far this season.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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