Following Juventus’ impressive 4-0 victory over Cagliari in the Coppa Italia, head coach Thiago Motta spoke to Mediaset about the team’s performance and future prospects. Reflecting on the match, he noted the shift in fan sentiment, saying, “We had a good performance, and the crowd is always with us. Sometimes they have the freedom to express their emotions; we need them. We must play one game at a time and work to the maximum. Sometimes we can achieve positive results, and sometimes we cannot, even though we haven’t lost. We have the level to perform well, especially when players like Nico Gonzalez return. Together with those who are consistently playing, they will help raise our level.”
Motta also commented on Teun Koopmeiners’ performance during the match. “He played well but had to come off because he was feeling under the weather. He contributed for 60 minutes, helping the team and demonstrating his professionalism. All the others also delivered excellent performances,” he said.
When asked about Koopmeiners’ versatility on the field, Motta expressed his appreciation for the player’s adaptability: “I like him everywhere; that’s why he plays. He has technical ability, physical qualities, and mental strength. The team functions well when he is on the field and performing effectively. He can play in multiple positions; in Holland, he has played various roles. The important thing is to keep him fit; he is a top player.”
Regarding other players like Manuel Locatelli and Kenan Yildiz, Motta acknowledged their importance in different positions due to injuries affecting the squad. “If there were no injuries, we wouldn’t need to play Manu at the back. In emergencies, it’s crucial to have him in various roles; he is intelligent and has good reading of the game. He believes he can perform well as a central defender, and Kenan has a bright present and future ahead of him. As a winger, he can beat his man, and from a trequartista position, he is very creative. They provide alternatives based on how I see them and depending on the opponent.”
