Juventus Hope Pierre Kalulu Mirrors Edgar Davids’ Legacy

French defender Pierre Kalulu has emerged as a key figure in Juventus‘ defense since joining the club on loan from AC Milan this summer. His move to the Turin-based club has drawn comparisons to that of Edgar Davids, a former AC Milan player who became an integral part of Juventus’ success in the late 1990s.

Kalulu’s journey with Juventus began this summer after a protracted negotiation period, and he has quickly transitioned from being a backup option to a reliable component of the team’s defensive lineup, especially after the injury of Gleison Bremer left a gap in the defense. The Bianconeri are reportedly keen to make his move permanent with an affordable deal, showing strategic interest in Kalulu’s long-term potential.

Juventus secured Kalulu on a loan deal that included a €14 million option to buy, an option they are likely to activate if the 24-year-old continues his commendable performances at Allianz Stadium. Kalulu’s arrival at Juventus and subsequent impact echoes the storied transfer of Edgar Davids, who also moved from AC Milan to Juventus for a modest fee. Davids went on to achieve significant success with the team, winning multiple Serie A titles under Marcello Lippi.

Federico Gatti, another defender for Juventus, has been partnering with Kalulu in defense, a setup that was necessitated by Bremer’s long-term absence due to injury. This new partnership is hoped to catalyze a resurgence in Juventus’ campaign, aiming to end their four-season trophy drought in Serie A.

Fabio Capello, the former AC Milan coach, commented on Kalulu’s departure from Milan in a recent media piece. Capello expressed surprise at Milan’s decision to let go of a player of Kalulu’s caliber, suggesting that the Frenchman’s field performances have justified Juventus’ acquisition and Milan’s potential oversight.

Comparisons between Kalulu and Davids reflect the high expectations placed on the defender’s shoulders, with hopes that he can emulate Davids’ achievements in the iconic black and white stripes of Juventus.