Dusan Vlahovic: The Missing Piece in Juventus’ Attack

Why Dusan Vlahovic Is the Ideal Successor to Cristiano Ronaldo at Juventus

Dusan Vlahovic’s move to Juventus during the January transfer window signaled a bold and strategic acquisition by the Italian club. Arriving for a fee of €82 million, the Serbian striker had already established himself as one of Serie A’s top goal scorers, netting 38 times in 58 appearances for Fiorentina over the previous two seasons. However, Vlahovic’s appeal goes beyond goal tallies alone. This article explores how Vlahovic addresses a key need for Juventus, the nuances of his playing style, and how he compares statistically and tactically to Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Urgent Search for a Proven Goal Scorer

Since Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure, Juventus had struggled to find a consistent attacking focal point. Historically, the Turin side’s attacking systems have featured partnerships, such as Mandzukic and Dybala or Ronaldo and Morata, with one forward leading the scoring and the other facilitating play. However, after Ronaldo left for Manchester United near the close of the summer window, Juventus’ attack lacked potency and regular output.

Throughout the current season, the combined contributions from Dybala and Morata weren’t sufficient—Dybala managed 7 goals from 20 appearances and Morata 5 in 24, resulting in Juventus scoring only 41 times in 27 Serie A games, placing them just tenth in the league for goals scored. The team’s overall lack of a dominant, direct striker was a glaring issue, leaving the team searching for a player capable of both finishing chances and continually threatening opposition defenses.

Despite the obvious vacancy, Juventus waited until winter to secure Vlahovic. At just 22 years old, Vlahovic brought not only an impressive scoring record and imposing physicality but also significant upside for further development. His adaptability and hunger made him the natural heir to the number nine role at the Allianz Stadium.

How Vlahovic Enhances Juventus’ Attacking Dynamics

Vlahovic’s arrival immediately transformed Juventus’ offense. His stature and presence provided Massimiliano Allegri’s side with a genuine target man, enabling the team to play more directly and assertively through central areas. Juventus, whose possession percentage this season hovered around 52.4%, often rely on transitional moments; Vlahovic’s style complements that approach by giving them a reliable outlet when launching attacks.

The Serbian’s ability to operate as a solo striker is well-documented from his time at Fiorentina, but at Juventus, his skill set thrives in a two-striker system. Fast off the mark, comfortable dribbling, and relentless in challenging defenders, Vlahovic’s physical and mental attributes enliven the attack. His aggressive approach creates chaos for opposing defenses, and his willingness to engage in physical battles distinguishes him from his contemporaries.

His technical ability with his back to goal is outstanding. Vlahovic consistently receives and controls difficult passes under pressure, and his finishing touch is clinical, as evidenced by his debut UEFA Champions League goal against Villarreal, where he expertly brought down a long ball and scored in style.

The Tactical Impact of Vlahovic’s Play

By occupying central defenders and opening passing lanes, Vlahovic creates space for his strike partners, especially players like Morata or Dybala, who relish dropping deeper or drifting wide to find the ball. This movement releases Juventus’ advanced midfielders—such as Manuel Locatelli—to join the attack late and exploit shooting opportunities from range.

Moreover, Vlahovic’s aerial ability and central positioning help Juventus win fouls in dangerous areas and facilitate late attacking runs from midfielders like Weston McKennie or Denis Zakaria. His ability to pin opposition defenders boosts Juventus’ capacity to get numbers forward without becoming exposed at the back.

Some tactical weaknesses remain—his eagerness sometimes leads to premature runs and offside calls, particularly against teams with high defensive lines. Defensively, while not traditionally a high-pressing forward at Fiorentina, Vlahovic’s early Juventus outings have shown marked improvement in pressing success, reaching 46.7% compared to his previous 30%, suggesting potential for growth in this area.

In possession, Vlahovic is not as involved as more creative strikers; instead, he operates as an off-the-ball threat reminiscent of Jamie Vardy, though his hold-up play and target man qualities are closer to Patrik Schick. This makes him an ideal partner for more ball-oriented forwards while enabling Juventus to employ a variety of offensive approaches.

Statistical Comparison: Vlahovic vs. Ronaldo

Juventus’ need for a Cristiano Ronaldo replacement offers a natural opportunity to compare the two players—specifically Vlahovic’s early 2021-22 numbers (including both Fiorentina and Juventus appearances) against Ronaldo’s final Serie A season.

While Ronaldo remains the standard in terms of overall impact, chance creation, and progressive play, Vlahovic demonstrates areas of statistical advantage, particularly in his efficiency and physical involvement. Notably, Vlahovic shows better goals-to-shot ratios and higher shot accuracy, both of which are valuable in a Juventus team seeking to maximize output from limited chances.

Strengths and Areas for Growth

Vlahovic’s core strengths include:

• Exceptional finishing inside the box
• Ability to play as both a solo striker and part of a duo
• Superb hold-up and link play, bringing teammates into attacking moves
• Physical resilience and willingness to battle defenders
• Capacity to improve pressing and defensive contributions

For long-term development, Vlahovic can focus on:

• Refining the timing and discipline of his off-the-ball runs to avoid unnecessary offsides
• Enhancing his contribution in possession phases and creative build-up play
• Continuing to raise his pressing intensity and tactical awareness when defending from the front

Conclusion: A Perfect Fit for Juventus’ Evolving Ambitions

Dusan Vlahovic’s arrival at Juventus for €82 million represents a calculated investment in the future of the club’s attack. His blend of youthful energy, technical quality, and physical prowess has immediately improved the Turin club’s offensive output and tactical flexibility. While filling Cristiano Ronaldo’s shoes is a monumental challenge for any striker, Vlahovic’s early performances, statistical strengths, and growth trajectory suggest he is fully capable of rising to the occasion.

If Juventus aims to reclaim their status at the top of Italian football and perform on the European stage, Vlahovic’s presence as a dynamic, clinical center-forward provides the foundation to build a new era of success.