Juventus began their Serie A season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Frosinone, but the match raised questions about the team's level, particularly regarding French forward Randal Kolo Muani, who failed to deliver the expected performance.
According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, Luciano Spalletti, Juventus' head coach, did not hesitate to publicly criticize Kolo Muani, emphasizing that the player needs to recognize his current level and work on regaining the abilities he has lacked in recent times.
Spalletti stated: "We strove hard to sign him, we pampered him, and we know his value, but he must realize that he hasn't played for two years, and there must be a reason for that."
The Juventus coach added: "Sometimes you think you are at an exceptional level, then you realize you have wasted something and you need to regain it."
Despite his criticism, Spalletti praised some of the French striker's potential, noting that he is skilled at retaining possession and moving into spaces, while also possessing great physical strength; however, he stressed that Juventus needs more from him in front of goal.
Kolo Muani is attempting to regain his form following his return to Juventus after a loan spell at Tottenham last season, during which he participated in 41 matches, scoring five goals and providing four assists.
His first stint with Juventus was more successful, as he played 22 matches, scored 10 goals, and provided 3 assists, contributing to the team finishing fourth in Serie A and qualifying for the UEFA Champions League.