The call arriving yesterday at Continassa bore the prefix 0049. On the other end was Francisco Conceicao, who significantly influenced the Nations League match between Germany and Portugal at the Allianz Arena in Munich. His performance, highlighted by a crucial goal, earned him the `man of the match` award. He spent thirty minutes causing trouble on the left flank for Nagelsmann`s side, validating his earlier defiant message: “One day they will know.” Now, they know.
Cristiano Ronaldo himself acknowledged Conceicao`s impact, hugging and thanking “Chico” after the match. However, as Conceicao told Sky, his own future remains uncertain: “Future at Juve? I don`t know yet, we`ll see what happens.” In the meantime, Juventus and Porto have reached an agreement that allows coach Igor Tudor to take the Portuguese winger to the United States. But this arrangement currently extends only to Juventus` participation in the Club World Cup.
Meanwhile, several issues remain unresolved, preventing a clear vision of Juventus` future structure. The coaching situation appears less complicated, with Igor Tudor`s position strengthening, seemingly extending his tenure beyond the Club World Cup. However, key roles around him are still undecided: in addition to Comolli, who will oversee the transfer market? Who will be the sporting director and the head scout? These are crucial questions as one transfer window nears its end and another opens on July 1st.
While much is yet to be decided, some aspects are clearer. Despite an initial period of adjustment tactically, the relationship between Tudor and Conceicao has reportedly improved. The Portuguese player`s playing time increased towards the end of the season, culminating in a key dribble against Nicolussi Caviglia that led to the decisive penalty converted by Locatelli. Another certainty is Conceicao`s 30 million euro release clause. While a significant sum, consistently finding players who can beat defenders at this price point is uncommon.
The file on Conceicao is among many on the desk of Damien Comolli, Juventus` new general director. Its current priority level is unclear. Comolli will have the chance to watch Conceicao closely in the USA. The message from his performance in Germany is evident: Conceicao is a player capable of making a decisive impact in matches.
