Aston Villa’s Sporting Director Monchi shared his thoughts on the upcoming Champions League clash with Juventus in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. The former Roma executive expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete with the Italian giants, despite their recent improvement under new manager Thiago Motta.
“Juventus is Juventus,” Monchi stated. “They’re gradually finding their way after the arrival of a manager with a different idea. It’s increasingly becoming Thiago’s team, and now they’re much stronger compared to two months ago. Plus, they need points in the Champions League: it will be a very difficult match.”
When asked if he would settle for a draw, Monchi’s response was unequivocal: “Never. Our mentality is to always go on the field to win.”
The sporting director also commented on former Villa player Douglas Luiz, now at Juventus. “He’s playing less than we all expected, but we’re talking about a strong player. Some players arrive and impose themselves, others need time. Patience is needed, but Douglas’s qualities are not in question. He will become important for Juventus.”
Monchi praised Luiz’s abilities, describing him as a playmaker whose every pass has purpose. “Last year he played 90% of the matches with us. He was decisive. After his departure, we invested, and we’re well-stocked in midfield with Tielemans, Onana, Kamara, Barkley… But I would always take Douglas back, in any club: he’s very strong.”
Regarding potential transfer dealings with Juventus in January, Monchi remained open to possibilities. “We’ll see, why not… We have a good relationship, born when I worked in Rome and he [Cristiano Giuntoli] in Naples. It will depend on the needs. Cristiano is one of the best Italian executives, and sooner or later he will win the Scudetto with Juventus as well.”
Monchi also touched on the young players Iling and Barrenechea, who were loaned out by Juventus. “They’re young. We thought of a path for them and loaned them to Bologna and Valencia. We’re happy, we’re not in a hurry.”
