Report: Locatelli faces three months on the shelf with meniscus tear

TURIN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 6: Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli (2ndL) during the Serie A match against AC Milan at Allianz Stadium on September 6, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Daniele Badolato - Juventus FC/Juventus FC via Getty Images)

Concerns arose following Juventus' Sunday match against AC Milan concerning the performance of Manuel Locatelli, who had appeared less effective in defensive duties compared to his usual standards. After the game, Locatelli sought medical tests for his knee, which revealed a meniscus tear. According to Tuttosport, the recommended treatment is surgery to repair the meniscus, potentially sidelining the captain for the next three months.

While the quick detection and planned repair procedure are positive, the timing is unfortunate. Juventus' already thin midfield depth is further strained by the absence of Khéphren Thuram, who is sidelined with his own knee injury, and Weston McKennie, who has been out due to muscle fatigue for the last two games. Additionally, newly acquired player Pape Matar Sarr has a foot issue. With Locatelli sidelined, Douglas Luiz and Teun Koopmeiners are the sole available midfield options.

The spotlight will now be on Luiz and Koopmeiners as they continue their progressions, with Luiz being a key creative force and Koopmeiners contributing goals and assists from the bench in recent matches. It is also possible that Augusto Owusu, a promising NextGen midfielder, will see increased playing time as the team grapples with the loss of key players. Manager Luciano Spalletti faces the challenge of managing this depth issue while maintaining the team's performance and results.