Former Milan manager Fabio Capello shared his thoughts on the upcoming clash between Atalanta and Juventus, offering his perspective on the two teams and their managers. In a wide-ranging interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello touched on various aspects of Italian football, from tactical approaches to transfer market strategies.
Comparing the managers, Capello drew an interesting parallel with Formula 1 drivers. “Gasperini is Hamilton, Thiago Motta is still Leclerc,” he stated, suggesting that Gasperini’s experience gives him an edge over the younger Motta. When asked about similarities between the two coaches, Capello noted, “Only their decisiveness.”
Regarding Juventus’ struggles this season, Capello expressed surprise at their league position. “I wouldn’t have expected such a delay from Juventus in the league, especially considering the strong choices shared by the coach and the club in the summer. Starting with the sale of Chiesa,” he remarked.
Capello offered advice for Motta, saying, “I would tell him one thing: don’t just think about one idea of football and adapt to the players you have in the squad to enhance their characteristics. This applies to all coaches, not just those leading Juventus.”
On the upcoming match, Capello expects an “extremely interesting” game without a clear favorite. He noted Atalanta’s recent dip in form, stating, “Atalanta of the last period is not the pre-Christmas one: in recent matches, they have played below rhythm, the aggressiveness is not the usual.”
Discussing Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, Capello emphasized, “Vlahovic is not the maneuvering center-forward that his coach prefers. But as a number 9 in the penalty area, he’s one of the best. The mistake is thinking that Dusan can weave the game like Zirkzee. Vlahovic should be asked for goals.”
Capello also weighed in on Juventus’ transfer targets, particularly Teun Koopmeiners. “I would wait for Koop, the player is not in question. And if I were still coaching, I would have him bought for any top club,” he asserted. Drawing a parallel with his past experience, Capello added, “Koopmeiners’ case reminds me of a Dutch player I coached in the past at Milan… Kluivert.”
On the topic of buying players from Atalanta, Capello advised, “If I were Juventus or another big club, I would continue to look at Atalanta to strengthen myself. I could see Ederson, Scalvini, and Lookman in any great European team, including Motta’s.”
Capello concluded by acknowledging Juventus’ ongoing rebuilding process, stating, “The Bianconeri are still in full construction and will have to fight until the end to qualify for the next Champions League.”
