If Llorente’s disappointing statistics weren’t bad enough, his work ethic in games has been close to non-existent. He does not put pressure on opposition defenders and his movement is usually static. Juventus have frequently dominated possession in their matches so he cannot have any complaints about a lack of supply. Even when the ball is in the penalty box, he does not react quickly enough to pounce on the ball and has been overall too lethargic.
Llorente has proven to be the anti-thesis of his strike partner Carlos Tevez. The Argentine forward has scored six goals in as many Serie A games and has provided two assists. Tevez has also scored two goals in as many UEFA Champions League matches for the Bianconeri. Aside from his statistics, Tevez has been invaluable to Allegri’s side thanks to his hard work and determination. It would be fair to say that the Argentinian has carried the Juventus front line by himself due to Llorente’s ineffectiveness.
One possible reason for Llorente’s uninspiring performances so far is the change in coaches which has resulted in a change in Juventus’ playing style.
There is the old saying, “If something isn’t broke, why fix it?” After losing to Atletico Madrid in Champions League and drawing to Sassuolo in Serie A, Allegri must acknowledge that the Juventus blade has grown blunt and Llorente is the cause of it.
There are two players that could take Llorente’s place in the Juventus starting line-up: Alvaro Morata or Sebastian Giovinco. Morata arrived this summer from European champions Real Madrid. He suffered a knee injury in pre-season training and he was sent-off against Roma but Morata has looked more lively than his compatriot whenever he has featured.
Although he has not started a match for Juventus this season, Morata has scored a goal in his first four Serie A matches. Perhaps with more match time the Spanish youth international can make more of an impact in Juventus’ attack.
Allegri has been putting too much faith in Llorente since the start of the season, but if Llorente does not start scoring, it could hurt Juventus in their quest for more success.
Today, it is time for Allegri to start someone alongside Tevez who can make a real difference as opposed to simply being a passenger.
Follow Vito Doria on Twitter: @VitoCDoria