Gattuso to Make One Change to Lazio Starting Lineup Against Juventus: Sutalo In for Doekhi

FolioPitch.com – 17 October 2026 | Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso is set to make a solitary alteration to his starting XI for the highly anticipated Serie A clash against Juventus in Turin, with reports indicating that Gattuso to Make One Change to Lazio Starting Lineup Against Juventus will see Josip Sutalo replace Danilho Doekhi in the heart of the defense. The Biancocelesti travel to the Allianz Stadium on the back of an impressive 3-1 victory over Monza, a result that kept them level on points with league leaders Inter Milan, who hold a superior goal difference. However, the unbeaten run will face a stern test against a Juventus side desperate for three points, and Gattuso appears to be tinkering with his backline to counter the threat.

According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, the Calabrian tactician is expected to maintain the majority of the lineup that dispatched Monza, especially after an entire week of rest during the international break. The only change is likely to come in central defense, where Sutalo will partner Oliver Provstgaard, with Doekhi dropping to the bench. The two new signings are both right-footed centre-backs, and their battle for a starting spot has been one of the intriguing subplots of Lazio’s season. Doekhi began the campaign as a starter, capitalizing on Sutalo’s injury, but when the Dutchman underwent a minor hand operation, the Croatian seized his opportunity to earn his full debut against Milan on the fourth matchday.

Sutalo also started against Venezia before joining his national team’s camp, while Doekhi remained at Formello under Gattuso’s tutelage. Consequently, the manager opted to reverse the roles in last weekend’s contest against Monza, starting Doekhi alongside Provstgaard, only to replace both with Sutalo and Diogo Leite in the second half after they picked up yellow cards. That tactical switch suggests Gattuso is carefully managing his defensive options, and the decision to reinstate Sutalo for the Juventus showdown underscores his faith in the Croatian’s ability to handle the pressure of a big match. The fact that Gattuso to Make One Change to Lazio Starting Lineup Against Juventus is the headline of the day speaks volumes about the stability of the rest of the team.

The remainder of the lineup should remain intact, with Nuno Tavares and Romano Floriani Mussolini completing the backline, and Reda Belahyane keeping his starting role between Kenneth Taylor and Davide Frattesi despite Danilo Cataldi’s return to full fitness. Gustav Isaksen is the obvious choice on the right wing amid Matteo Cancellieri’s continued absence. The Dane and Mattia Zaccagni will flank the in-form Tijjani Noslin, who still has the upper hand on Andrea Pinamonti, despite the latter’s goal against Monza. Noslin’s recent performances have been instrumental in Lazio’s unbeaten start, and Gattuso will be hoping the Dutchman can continue his scoring streak against a Juventus defense that has been leaky at times this season.

The decision to stick with the same attacking trident is a clear indication that Gattuso believes continuity is key to unlocking Juventus. The Bianconeri, under their own tactical setup, have struggled to find consistency, and Lazio will look to exploit any gaps. The probable XI (4-3-3) reads: Mandas; Floriani Mussolini, Sutalo, Provstgaard, Tavares; Frattesi, Belahyane, Taylor; Isaksen, Noslin, Zaccagni. This lineup boasts a blend of youth and experience, with the defensive quartet averaging just 23 years of age, while the midfield trio offers dynamism and creativity. The front three possess pace and flair, and they will be tasked with breaking down a Juventus backline that has conceded in each of its last three matches.

From a tactical perspective, the switch from Doekhi to Sutalo might seem minor, but it could have significant implications. Sutalo is known for his aggressive pressing and ability to play out from the back, qualities that could be crucial against a Juventus side that likes to press high. Doekhi, on the other hand, is more of a traditional stopper, and his physical presence might have been preferred against a more direct opponent. However, Gattuso’s choice suggests he wants his team to dominate possession and build from the back, a philosophy that has yielded positive results so far. The fact that Gattuso to Make One Change to Lazio Starting Lineup Against Juventus is the only alteration also highlights the coach’s satisfaction with the overall balance of the side.

Lazio’s unbeaten run has been built on a solid defensive foundation and a free-scoring attack. They have conceded just five goals in their opening seven matches, a record bettered only by Inter and Napoli. The midfield trio of Frattesi, Belahyane, and Taylor has provided excellent cover for the defense, allowing the full-backs to push forward and support the wingers. Belahyane, in particular, has been a revelation since joining from Verona, and his ability to break up play and launch counter-attacks will be vital against Juventus. Cataldi’s return gives Gattuso another option, but the coach seems to favor the youthful energy of Belahyane for this particular fixture.

Up front, Noslin has been in scintillating form, scoring four goals in his last five appearances. The 25-year-old has seamlessly filled the void left by Ciro Immobile, and his partnership with Zaccagni and Isaksen has been a nightmare for defenders. Pinamonti’s goal against Monza was a reminder of the depth at Gattuso’s disposal, but the coach has consistently preferred Noslin’s all-round game. The former Verona striker’s ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play will be crucial in relieving pressure on the defense, especially in the cauldron of the Allianz Stadium.

As the teams prepare for kick-off, all eyes will be on Gattuso’s tactical decision. The confirmation that Gattuso to Make One Change to Lazio Starting Lineup Against Juventus is the only tweak suggests that the coach is confident in his squad’s ability to secure a result in Turin. A victory would not only extend Lazio’s unbeaten streak but also send a statement of intent to the rest of the league. With Inter Milan setting a relentless pace at the top, every point is precious, and Gattuso knows that a slip-up against Juventus could be costly. The Biancocelesti have shown resilience and quality in equal measure this season, and their fans will be hoping that the single change in defense is enough to nullify the threat of Juventus and secure a famous win.

In conclusion, Gattuso’s decision to bring in Sutalo for Doekhi is a calculated move that reflects his trust in the Croatian’s abilities and his desire to maintain continuity elsewhere. The rest of the lineup remains unchanged, and the stage is set for a thrilling encounter in Turin. If Lazio can replicate the form that saw them dismantle Monza, they will fancy their chances against a Juventus side still searching for consistency. The single change might be the masterstroke that tips the balance in Lazio’s favor, and fans will be eagerly watching to see if Gattuso to Make One Change to Lazio Starting Lineup Against Juventus pays off.