Thiago Motta is facing increasing scrutiny as the manager of Juventus, with critics and fans alike questioning his decisions following a series of disappointing results. The team’s recent defeat to Milan in the Supercoppa and a staggering eleven draws in eighteen league matches have left Juventus languishing in sixth place in Serie A. The challenges of coaching a club with such high expectations are becoming evident, especially after the shadow of former coach Massimiliano Allegri looms large over the current squad.
Calciomercato report how Motta’s recent comments about not having an “obsession for victory” have sparked outrage among supporters, who view such statements as contradictory to Juventus’s storied history of success. While it is clear that Motta intends to alleviate pressure from his young squad—one of the youngest in Serie A—his words have been interpreted as a dismissal of the club’s winning mentality, which has defined its 128-year legacy.
Another area of concern has been the management of players like Teun Koopmeiners, who has struggled to replicate his impressive form from Atalanta. Motta’s tactical decisions regarding Koopmeiners’ positioning have raised eyebrows, as he has often been deployed in roles that do not play to his strengths, leaving him ineffective on the pitch.
Dusan Vlahovic’s situation is also precarious. While his contract runs until 2026, Motta’s timing regarding substitutions has been questionable. Key moments, such as replacing Vlahovic at halftime against Napoli or during crucial matches against Fiorentina and Milan, have led to missed opportunities and raised doubts about the coach’s decision-making.
The handling of Danilo has further complicated matters. Initially sidelined after Allegri’s departure, Danilo was eventually brought back into the fold due to injuries within the squad. However, rumors suggest a strained relationship between him and Motta, culminating in Danilo being placed on the transfer list.
Additionally, players like Cambiaso and Gatti have experienced inconsistent performances attributed to both their own errors and Motta’s fluctuating management style. Cambiaso’s recent decline from a national team starter to a benchwarmer exemplifies how excessive positional changes can disrupt a player’s rhythm.
Kenan Yildiz stands out as one of the few bright spots for Juventus this season. Despite his youth, there are concerns that he is being underutilized in an external role rather than being allowed to thrive centrally where he has shown promise.
As Juventus navigates this turbulent period, it is clear that Thiago Motta must address these issues swiftly if he hopes to restore confidence among players and fans alike. The pressure is mounting for him to not only secure victories but also to cultivate a winning mindset within a team that has historically been synonymous with success. With upcoming matches critical for their season, Juventus must find solutions quickly or risk further disappointment as they strive to reclaim their place at the top of Italian football.