Juventus - Rennes

Can Juventus restore defensive order when they host Rennes at Allianz Stadium on 22 October 2026? The hosts face a tactical test in this Europa League matchday 3 encounter, looking to bounce back from a heavy domestic defeat. The expected XI for the home side features Nick Woltemade leading the line, supported by a midfield trio of Kerim Alajbegovic, Nico Gonzalez, and Teun Koopmeiners. However, the absence of Manuel Locatelli through injury leaves a gap in their central structure. Rennes arrive with a fluid attacking setup, likely fielding Boulaye Dia and Mousa Tamari, though they must contend with the injury-enforced absence of Esteban Lepaul.

Juventus showed their European potential with a 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo recently, building on their dominant 5-0 win against NEC Nijmegen. Rennes have also found momentum in this competition, securing a 2-1 result against OFI Crete. While the visitors have displayed high-scoring form in the French league, their defensive vulnerability was exposed in a recent 4-3 loss to Paris FC. With both sides aiming to solidify their position in the group, the battle between the Juventus midfield and the Rennes creative unit will likely dictate the tempo at Allianz Stadium.