Parma vs. Juventus: Issues and Decisions That Will Shape Coppa Italia Game

The past few weeks have been excellent for Juventus, the reigning champions now in possession of a seven-point lead at the top of the Serie A table. With the Champions League knockout stages set to get underway next month, that cushion could be vital to their chances of progressing to the quarter-finals and beyond.

By creating such a gap between themselves and AS Roma, Massimiliano Allegri will feel more comfortable rotating and resting some of his key players for the matches in Europe’s elite competition, putting the coach and his team in an excellent position.

That ability to bring players in and out of the line-up is also evident in the Coppa Italia, with the Bianconeri making eight changes for their last fixture. With the second-string eventually running out 6-1 winners over Hellas Verona, Allegri will surely feel confident enough to field a number of his reserves against Parma.

The meeting with Roberto Donadoni and the Ducali is a nostalgia-laden one, a rematch of the 1995 final in which Juventus last won this competition. Parma have fallen on hard times this season however, currently rooted to the foot of the table, with relegation to Serie B now a distinct possibility.

Over the following pages is a look at the key issues and decisions likely to shape the clash at the Stadio Tardini, looking at what Juventus will need to do to ensure a berth in the semi-final.

Decisions to Make in Midfield

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With a plethora of players to choose from, Allegri will have to carefully consider the options available in midfield. His decision should be made easier by Arturo Vidal’s yellow card against Chievo at the weekend, a booking that rules him out of next weekend’s league meeting with Udinese.

That should see the Chilean start this game, while Andrea Pirlo’s status is unclear, as the bearded genius was unable to shake off the effects of the flu and missed last Sunday’s 2-0 victory over Chievo. He is likely to be available but may be held back to ensure he is healthy enough to cover for Vidal’s suspension on Sunday.

Roberto Pereyra, Simone Padoin and even Luca Marrone could see action against Parma, while supporters will hope to see Simone Pepe given some playing time.

Kingsley Coman to Be Unleashed Again?

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If the makeup of the midfield is difficult to decide, the rotation in attack could make for some interesting viewing. While the last Coppa Italia tie saw Sebastian Giovinco star, the 28-year-old might not be available on Wednesday following the announcement of his move to Toronto FC.

Giovinco is set to move to Canada when his contract expires in June, but Gianluca Di Marzio believes the Bianconeri are discussing the possibility of an early departure for the striker. Writing on his own website, the transfer expert reports that Giovinco could indeed agree to leave Juventus before the end of the month.

That would create space for Kingsley Coman to play more regularly, and the French youngster has impressed when given the chance. Indeed, the 18-year-old netted his first professional goal in the last round of the cup and will hope to add to that tally if given the opportunity.

Marco Storari Needs to Shine in Goal

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Gigi Buffon is almost certain to sit out the match against Parma, with Marco Storari expected to be given the nod in goal. He has proven to be a reliable deputy for the Juventus captain but has failed to keep a clean sheet in his two appearances this term.

The Bianconeri won both matches despite Storari's ending a proud run of shutouts which stretched back to February of last year. However, the 38-year-old will be keen to make amends for Juve’s exit at this same stage last year, as he was between the posts in last year’s quarter-final defeat to Roma.

Parma Looking for Inspiration

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Meanwhile, Parma will arrive at Wednesday’s game looking for something to ignite their season.

The Ducali lost a key relegation battle at the weekend—they were beaten 2-1 by fellow strugglers Cesena—and have now gone into a press blackout, per Football Italia. That same report notes the players were confronted by fans after Sunday’s loss, with the supporters demanding the club “at least go into Serie B with honour.”

Faced with Juventus, the chance at a major upset could spark Roberto Donadoni’s men into life, although their current form suggests that may be beyond them.