Spalletti admits ‘mistake’ with Juventus summer signing

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Lorenzo Bettoni | Last updated May 8, 2026 7:19 AM ET

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.

Spalletti: Openda ‘demonstrates outstanding professionalism’

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.

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.

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

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