Juventus, one of Italy’s most successful football clubs, has been docked ten points in Serie A following a new hearing into the club’s previous transfer deals. The verdict came after a 15-point penalty was reversed and the case was re-examined. This development has dropped Juventus to seventh position, outside of the European qualification spots, and dealt a blow to their hopes of securing a Champions League spot.

Unfortunate timing: Juventus Penalised Again

The penalty’s announcement could not have come at a worse moment, since it came immediately before Juventus’ match against Empoli, which culminated in a 4-1 defeat for the team. Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri was taken aback by the circumstances, stressing the difficulty of summarising an entire season in the middle of such unforeseen developments.

Prior to the penalty, Juventus was already a significant distance behind league leaders Napoli. The 17-point deficit between the two clubs appeared insurmountable, but the new ruling destroys Juventus’ ambitions of narrowing the gap and climbing the standings.

Juventus Slips to Seventh Place as Penalty Drops Them in Serie A Standings

As a result of the deduction, Juventus is now outside of the European qualification slots, increasing the pressure on the team to regroup and strive for better results. Coach Allegri praises the club’s winning culture and urges for unity among the players and staff as they confront this difficult scenario.

The case’s complicated legal proceedings have implicated a number of Juventus figures. The initial 15-point sentence for various club officials was reversed, including former vice-chairman Pavel Nedved, who has since been acquitted among other club figures. Long bans, however, have been upheld for former chairman Andrea Agnelli, ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene, and sporting directors Federico Cherubini and Fabio Paratici.

Juventus issued a statement in response to the verdict, expressing their dissatisfaction and asserting their right to consider an appeal. The club emphasises the need for clear rules and proportionate sanctions, while acknowledging the ongoing evaluation by a judge.

The penalty not only affects Juventus’ league standing but also impacts their chances of securing a place in the prestigious UEFA Champions League. With just two games remaining, Juventus finds themselves five points behind AC Milan, who currently occupy the final Champions League spot. The upcoming clash between Juventus and Milan takes on added significance in this high-stakes race.

Alongside the ongoing football-related sanctions, Juventus is also facing criminal proceedings over its accounting practices. The potential trial involving 12 current and former officials, including former chairman Agnelli, adds further legal complications to the club’s already challenging situation.