Federico Gatti’s journey at Juventus this season has been a tale of ups and downs. Once a regular starter and even captain, the defender now finds himself on the bench, no longer wearing the armband. The recent 4-4 draw against Inter Milan highlighted his current situation.
Calciomercato detail how earlier in the season, Gatti was a key figure in Thiago Motta’s lineup. However, recent matches have seen a shift in his role. Against Lazio, he started but didn’t wear the captain’s armband, which was given to Andrea Cambiaso. Gatti was substituted in the 72nd minute of that game. In the subsequent match against Stuttgart, he remained on the bench for the entire game, even as Juventus conceded a late goal.
A notable incident occurred during the Inter Milan match. As Gatti prepared to come on as a substitute, Motta was seen tugging at his shirt, seemingly frustrated that the player had moved away while receiving instructions. Motta was heard saying, “Where are you going? I’m talking to you.” This interaction, while intense, was described as more of an adrenaline-fueled moment rather than a confrontation.
Post-match, Motta explained his decision to start Danilo over Gatti: “Gatti has experience and physicality, but I see Danilo as better in build-up play. We have different characteristics that, together with Pierre [Kalulu], can help us in different matches against different opponents. Fede [Gatti] provides more defensive solidity.”
Motta’s approach to the captaincy is fluid, as seen in his previous stint at Bologna. This variable hierarchy applies to both starting positions and the captain’s armband. While this might be challenging for a player with Gatti’s strong personality, it’s a system the team will need to adapt to.
Despite these recent developments, Gatti’s future at Juventus seems secure. Negotiations for a contract renewal are progressing smoothly, with an agreement reportedly already in place. An announcement extending his current contract, which runs until 2028, is expected soon.
