Juventus manager Thiago Motta addressed the controversial second yellow card given to Francisco Conceicao for simulation in the closing stages of their 1-1 draw with Cagliari. While Motta hadn’t seen the replay, he supported the referee’s decision if simulation indeed occurred.
“I haven’t seen the images. But if it’s simulation, it’s right,” Motta stated in his post-match press conference. The coach used this incident to call for greater consistency in how simulation is handled across Serie A.
Motta elaborated: “It’s something we’ve been talking about for a long time, even in meetings with Rocchi: simulations are not good for the game. I repeat, I have to see it. But I trust the referee, however now a precedent is set and it must always be like this: there are no interpretations.”
The Juventus manager emphasized the need for uniform application of the rule: “It shouldn’t be done occasionally or when it’s convenient: that’s not the case today, there was nothing particular. The referee saw a simulation and in these cases the player must be sent off. However, from now on, it must always be done and not just sometimes. We would all benefit from it.”
When asked if he spoke with the referee, Motta reiterated his stance: “I said the same things I said to you. There is no more interpretation, yes or no, the referee saw simulation and rightly booked him because simulation shouldn’t be done. Now we have to do it always, otherwise it hurts football.”
Motta also defended Conceicao’s character while supporting the decision: “Conceicao is a fantastic boy, honest, he always trains with an incredible attitude. But if he tried to simulate, it’s a yellow card. To do well in this game, simulation must be seen clearly, it must always be done. It must be punished. I leave the margin because I haven’t seen it yet but I trust the referee. It also serves Conceicao to improve.”
