Juventus manager Thiago Motta expressed confidence ahead of his team’s upcoming Serie A clash against Napoli. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Motta emphasized the importance of the fixture and shared insights on his squad’s preparation.
“I expect a great match, a confrontation with strong players on the field,” Motta stated. “We will approach the game with great seriousness and responsibility, always respecting the opponent but playing our football.”
The manager confirmed that defender Federico Gatti would be available for selection, with only Conceicao and Milik ruled out due to injury.
Motta also reflected on his relationship with Napoli manager Antonio Conte, under whom he played for the Italian national team. “It was a great pleasure to work with Conte,” Motta recalled. “In 2016, we had a great European Championship. We were eliminated by a strong team, but we were also a strong national team. The relationship with Conte has always been fantastic.”
Addressing Napoli’s strengths, Motta acknowledged, “Napoli is built to aim for the Scudetto. They have expressed extraordinary football in recent years. We must continue on our path and put in a great performance, for us and for our fans.”
The Juventus boss also spoke about striker Dusan Vlahovic’s progress: “Each of us can improve. Dusan is physically well, I see him smiling, available, positive. We talk every day.”
Reflecting on his first 100 days at Juventus, Motta emphasized his focus on the present: “I don’t have the sheet that guarantees future victories. I only think about today, where we had a great training session. I’ll spend all day at the sports center and tonight I’ll see my family. Then we’ll face tomorrow’s match at our best.”
Motta concluded by discussing squad rotation and his team’s playing style: “We need every player; they are all strong and will be useful to us during a very long season. My players don’t tackle to commit fouls; they always want to play with the ball, respecting the game, without simulations. But dangerous fouls are not okay.”
