Michele Padovano says Vlahovic does not know how to respond to criticism

Club News

December 20, 2024 - 6:00 am

Former Juventus striker Michele Padovano has weighed in on Dusan Vlahovic’s recent fallout with Juventus fans, pointing to the Serbian striker’s struggles in handling criticism. Vlahovic has carried significant expectations since joining the Bianconeri, serving as the focal point of their attack. While his recent goal-scoring form has been commendable, Juventus’s inability to consistently secure wins has left fans dissatisfied, leading to tensions between the player and supporters.

In a recent fixture, Vlahovic reacted angrily to criticism from the stands, highlighting his sensitivity to the pressures that come with leading the line for Juventus. Although the dispute was quickly resolved, Padovano believes the incident underscores a larger issue in how Vlahovic handles adversity. Speaking to Tuttomercatoweb, Padovano remarked, “No advice for a complete player from all points of view. I see difficulties in reacting to criticism. Great strikers like Higuain, Del Piero, Vialli, and Trezeguet have passed through Juventus… When you are there, you have to prove yourself. I don’t think he will be Juventus’ striker.”

Padovano’s comments reflect a sentiment that Vlahovic, while talented, still has a way to go in fully embracing the mental demands of representing a club like Juventus. His emotional reactions—both to criticism and on the pitch when things do not go his way—suggest he is still adapting to the high expectations placed on him. This emotional volatility has led to occasional clashes with fans, but it has not overshadowed his contributions on the field.

Despite these challenges, Vlahovic remains a crucial player for Juventus. His goals are vital to the team’s success, and while his temperament may sometimes raise concerns, it is equally a sign of his passion and desire to succeed. Juventus fans and the club will need to find a balance between demanding excellence and supporting a player who clearly has the talent to be a long-term asset. If Vlahovic can learn to channel criticism constructively, he has the potential to join the ranks of Juventus’s legendary strikers.