Dani Alves Injury: Juventus Defender Fractures Leg vs. Genoa

Juventus' flying full-back Dani Alves suffered a broken leg during the 3-1 loss against Genoa on Sunday, an injury that will likely sideline him for a significant amount of time.

News of the injury came via the Old Lady's official website. Per the report, he fractured the fibula bone in his left leg. Defender Leonardo Bonucci also suffered a strain to the flexor muscles, per the club release.

For manager Massimiliano Allegri, replacing Alves will be a difficult challenge. The veteran defender still offers a superb outlet on the right flank, stretching the opposition laterally and allowing space for other attacking stars to take advantage of.

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Juventus fans would have been hoping to see Alves as much as possible in his debut term for the club; he was signed on a free transfer from Barcelona to much excitement. So any knock he picks up will be a concern.   

The Turin outfit do at least have strength in depth in this position. Stephan Lichtsteiner has long been a reliable option in the role, while the tactical versatility of this team means Allegri can tweak the system should Alves be absent. Juve can switch between a back four and a back three with ease.

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Juan Cuadrado has also been in excellent form, and with some experience at the right-back position, he'll provide competition for Lichtsteiner.

Games against Atalanta, Dinamo Zagreb and Torino in the next three matches are likely to see the Italian champions up against sides who will defend with diligence before seeking to spring on the counter-attack. As such, with his incisive attacking play, work rate and defensive dynamism, Alves’ absence will be felt.