Juventus manager Thiago Motta addressed the media ahead of their crucial Champions League match against Aston Villa in Birmingham. Despite a delayed start due to airport issues, Motta discussed various topics surrounding the team’s preparation and future.
When asked about aiming for a draw, Motta questioned Emery’s sincerity, stating, “I’d like to see if Emery was serious or if he turned red when he spoke; for me, he’s lying. They’re a great team, they’ve earned 9 points in this Champions League, and we must be determined to do our job, giving our maximum to deliver a great performance.”
Regarding the recent match against AC Milan, Motta expressed satisfaction: “We played a good game, controlled the field, and didn’t allow Milan their strength, which is counterattacks. We must continue our defensive solidity here too, not giving space to their attacking midfielders, staying compact, and defending our goal well. Then, when we have the ball, we must be effective. They can create difficulties in ball recovery.”
Addressing the team’s injury concerns, Motta commented, “It’s certainly not a coincidence, and it certainly doesn’t happen only to Juventus. It happens to many teams. At this moment, giving my opinion on why wouldn’t be constructive and would only create debate. We must continue focusing on our team; we all need to do something more to make the group function better.”
On not calling up youth players, Motta explained, “I didn’t bring any youth sector players because today, calling up a player just to have them on the bench serves no purpose. They must earn their call-up; it shouldn’t be a gift. I’m calm and convinced that the players I have available will give their maximum for 95 minutes.”
Motta praised Unai Emery: “Like all the coaches I’ve had, I listened and tried to learn from him too. I don’t need to explain his career. What he has achieved means he has a lot of work, consistency, and competence.”
When asked about his future in the Premier League, Motta affirmed his commitment to Juventus: “I’ve never had the opportunity, but I feel very good at Juventus. They welcomed me very well, and I see an important future in this team. We’re growing, and I’m not thinking about anything other than doing well here.”
Motta concluded by discussing the team’s current state: “Our present is good. We’re coming off a draw against Milan, and we’re doing well in the Champions League.”
