In a season that's been more about grit than glory for Juventus winger Edon Zhegrova, the Kosovar star has at least found one thing to hold onto: the unwavering support of the Bianconeri faithful.
The 27-year-old arrived in Turin last summer with a reputation as one of Ligue 1's most electrifying talents, thanks to a memorable three-year spell at Lille. Juventus CEO Damien Comolli pulled off what looked like a shrewd piece of business, securing Zhegrova for a bargain €15 million. But the deal came with a catch—the winger was nursing a serious injury, and his first season in Italy has been a struggle to rediscover that explosive form.
Sunday's clash with Hellas Verona at the Allianz Stadium was more of the same. Luciano Spalletti kept Zhegrova on the bench until the 80th minute, when Francisco Conceicao needed a breather. Yet, in those fleeting 10 minutes plus stoppage time, the Kosovo international reminded everyone why he was once the talk of French football. He danced past defenders with his trademark dribbling, whipped in dangerous crosses, and nearly snatched a dramatic winner with a low strike that forced a stunning fingertip save from Lorenzo Montipo, the ball kissing the post before bouncing to safety.
That cameo didn't go unnoticed, especially in the Curva Sud, where Zhegrova has become a cult hero. According to reports, the ultras showed their appreciation, and the winger responded in kind—becoming the only Juventus player to walk over to the Curva Sud after the final whistle and hand his shirt to a fan. It's a small gesture, but in the world of football, it speaks volumes about the bond he's building off the pitch.
On the pitch, though, the numbers paint a grim picture. Zhegrova has made just one start all season—in the Champions League against Pafos—and has yet to make his full Serie A debut. All 16 of his league appearances have come from the bench, and he's still searching for his first goal or assist. It's been a woeful campaign by any measure, and his future in Turin is far from certain.
Yet, for a player who's struggled to find his rhythm, the backing of the Curva Sud might be the spark he needs. In football, sometimes that's all it takes to turn a season around.