Juventus finds itself entrenched in yet another injury crisis, with multiple defenders sidelined, prompting questions about when new signing Alberto Costa will make his debut. The 21-year-old defender, brought on board during the January transfer window from Vitória SC, is considered one of the most promising young talents after being pursued by several big names across Europe.
Fans are eagerly awaiting Costa's first appearance with the Bianconeri, especially as the club has seen injuries begin to mount steeply within its defensive line. Following his 14 million euro transfer, made with both immediate needs and future ambitions in mind, the supporters have been hungry for Costa to demonstrate his potential on the pitch.
Managing this influx of injuries has placed head coach Thiago Motta under significant pressure. "With defenders like Renato Veiga and Nicolò Savona recently sidelined, it adds urgency to Costa's inclusion," explained Motta. Although Costa has not yet featured, his training performances have impressed the coaching staff. "Very good since he arrived. Very attentive; he immediately understands what we want to see. He has great physique, and I am convinced when his opportunity arises, he will do well," the coach remarked.
Costa's absence from the playing field has frustrated some fans, who were optimistic about seeing him play as soon as he transferred. The current injuries, particularly to Veiga—who may be out for as long as a month—serve as mounting evidence of the dire need for fresh legs within the squad. This situation has raised the likelihood of Costa seeing action sooner rather than later.
With the impending match against Cagliari, it seems likely Costa could potentially be slotted not just as reinforcement, but as part of Motta's strategic plans. Most experts anticipate he may start from the bench but could be called upon to make his official debut if the circumstances allow. The current lineup includes Timothy Weah and Andrea Cambiaso, but Costa remains on standby, eager to play his part.
The coach's assessment reflects optimism for Costa’s readiness to step onto the field. "I am seeing him very well: he is attentive, with great physicality. He is hungry and eager to prove his worth," echoed Motta's sentiments about the young defender after the injury troubles took form.
This eagerness underlines Costa’s character and ambition. Transitioning from the relative obscurity of the Portuguese league to the higher stakes of Serie A is no small task. Each match he doesn’t play only heightens the desperation of Juventus fans, hungry to see him grace the pitch.
Fans might not have to wait much longer. The looming match against Empoli involves additional key players on the injury list. The expectation remains high, and the upcoming fixtures provide Costa with potential opportunities to emerge as both solution and star. The upcoming Coppa Italia clash will likely be another opportunity for Motta to experiment with lineups, making Costa’s entry feasible either as a late substitute or possibly stepping up to start.
For now, fans can bear the wait, trusting the coaching staff to make the correct tactical decisions and hoping Costa's debut enhances Juventus’ back line. With the season gradually progressing, anticipation surrounding Alberto Costa’s introduction only stands to increase as injuries continue to plague the squad.
With winter training sessions underway, Costa finds himself at the heart of discussions surrounding team dynamics and formations, with many hopeful he will soon be seen making his mark on the field. Whether it's against Cagliari or soon after, it feels as if the clock is ticking, marking the arrival of young Alberto Costa and his chance to shine within Juventus’s storied history.