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# Juventus' Midfield Rating: Cuadrado's Performance in the 2021-2022 Season
## Introduction to Juventus' Midfield Struggles
Before the 2021-2022 season, Juventus' midfield had been a point of concern for fans and management. The departure of key midfielders like Blaise Matuidi and Sami Khedira left a gap in creativity, defense, and leadership. Enter Arthur Melo, a highly anticipated signing from Barcelona, who was expected to fill the void. However, the 2021-2022 campaign also saw the arrival of another midfielder who would leave a lasting impact: Federico Cuadrado.
## Cuadrado's Role in Juventus' Midfield
Cuadrado, signed from Fiorentina, was brought in to provide depth and versatility to Juventus' midfield. Known for his energy, work rate, and ability to play across multiple positions, Cuadrado quickly became a fan favorite. His adaptability allowed him to slot into various roles: as a box-to-box midfielder, a defensive screen, or even as an attacking midfielder.
During the season, Cuadrado demonstrated his value with consistent performances. He scored 6 goals and contributed 8 assists, showcasing his attacking prowess. His defensive contributions were equally impressive,Campeonato Brasileiro Glamour often breaking up plays and helping Juventus maintain possession. Cuadrado's ability to balance defense and attack made him an invaluable asset to a team that struggled at times for creativity.
## Cuadrado's Impact on Juventus' Performance
Cuadrado's arrival coincided with a slight resurgence in Juventus' form. While the team didn't achieve a top-four finish, Cuadrado's presence stabilized the midfield and provided a much-needed boost in attacking output. His leadership on and off the pitch also played a role in keeping the squad motivated during a challenging campaign.
Manager Max Allegri praised Cuadrado's versatility, stating, "Cuadrado is a player who can play multiple positions, and that flexibility is invaluable. He brings energy and determination to the team, which is exactly what we need."
## Criticisms and Challenges
Despite his positive contributions, Cuadrado's 2021-2022 season wasn't without criticism. Some fans felt that his defensive responsibilities sometimes came at the expense of attacking flair, and his goal-scoring numbers weren't as high as expected. Additionally, Juventus as a whole struggled to maintain consistency, which limited Cuadrado's ability to shine in a more attacking midfield role.
## Summary and Future Prospects
Overall, Cuadrado's performance in the 2021-2022 season was a mixed bag. He proved his worth as a reliable midfielder and became a key player for Juventus. However, his role in the team will likely depend on the signings and strategy of new manager Massimiliano Allegri in the upcoming season.
With a contract extension in 2022, Cuadrado's future at Juventus remains bright. As the club continues to rebuild, his versatility and experience will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead. For now, Cuadrado has solidified his place as a fans' favorite and a vital piece of Juventus' midfield puzzle.