Juventus is probably one of the most balanced all-time teams. It has absolute superstars in every department, along with team players, leaders, and top-tier supporting cast. Even with that, and in the name of tactical balance, I had to make some tough but necessary choices. As I’ve said on other occasions, you could create at least ten different Juventus all-time XIs, so don’t be upset if your favorite player didn’t make the cut.

Goalkeepers
Zoff and Buffon, two of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, battle it out for the starting spot. This choice is personal. Having witnessed Buffon’s career, I chose him, but Zoff could easily take his place too. As the saying goes… “wherever you land, you land well.”

Defense
Scirea, the captain, is probably the only absolute lock. I wanted to reward Chiellini for his extraordinary consistency and impact in the black-and-white shirt. His qualities make him a perfect partner for Scirea.
At right-back, Gentile or Zambrotta could have easily been included, but I believe Thuram is a more complete player than both.
On the left, Cabrini is an automatic choice: complete, elegant, technically gifted, and reliable in both attack and defense.

Midfield
Leaving out Nedved was painful. Platini was the first name on the team sheet, but for the Frenchman to perform at his best, he needs at least two midfielders covering for him.
One of them, with a more defensive role, is Furino—a true Juventus legend, perhaps less celebrated than others, but crucial in providing tactical balance (as well as energy and grit).
Alongside him, the extraordinary Tardelli: intelligence, versatility, grit, and all-around quality. I can’t think of anyone more suited for this role.

Attack
A classic number nine like Bettega would fit perfectly here, but taking out any of these three forwards would be sacrilege.
Boniperti was a Juventus legend (even after retiring) and excelled as a center-forward, playing in an incredibly modern way.
Alongside him, two incredible number 10s: Baggio and Del Piero. I don’t think much explanation is needed, right?
That said, it pains me to leave out another football genius like Sivori, but his characteristics were too similar to those of Baggio or Del Piero. I needed at least one more classic center-forward to balance the attack.