Juventus supporters are increasingly vocal in their demand for 20-year-old goalkeeper Carlo Daffara to replace the under-performing Mattia Perin, following another disappointing performance by the veteran against Como. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages urging the club to give Daffara a chance, with fans lamenting a perceived “non-save” conceded by Perin on a Vojvoda shot.
Daffara’s rise through the Juventus youth system has earned him the nickname “Baby Buffon,” a comparison stemming from his explosive reflexes and agility. He progressed from the Under-17 team to the Next Gen squad, consistently impressing at each level. This progression caught the attention of then-Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri, who included Daffara in a Serie A matchday squad on September 3, 2023, naming him as a substitute alongside Marco Pinsoglio, with Perin starting in goal.
While Daffara has been called up to five Serie A matchday squads, he is yet to make his debut in the competition. Still, his consistent inclusion in training sessions with the first team has provided valuable experience. In recognition of his potential, Juventus awarded Daffara a contract extension in the summer of 2024, tying him to the club until 2028.
The arrival of new Juventus manager Thiago Motta has continued Daffara’s development. Motta brought the young goalkeeper on the team’s pre-season tour in Germany, an experience Daffara described as crucial. “I started pre-season with the first team and realized how much the details make the difference,” Daffara said, emphasizing the importance of learning from experienced players.
Juventus recently announced a 35-man squad for the FIFA Club World Cup, including both Daffara and Perin, alongside defender Federico Bremer and striker Arkadiusz Milik. The inclusion of Daffara in the squad suggests the club recognizes his potential and is providing him with opportunities to gain experience on a larger stage.
The situation between the posts at Juventus remains fluid, with the future of Perin potentially uncertain. The club is evaluating options, with Daffara emerging as a strong contender for the starting role.
