Manuel Locatelli admits he felt ‘enormous disappointment’ at being dropped for Italy’s EURO 2024 campaign, but trusts Thiago Motta can bring ‘clear ideas’ to Juventus.
The midfielder has had a difficult year both at club and international level, where he struggled with Max Allegri’s tactical approach and fully expected to be part of the Azzurri squad at the European Championships, only to be left out by coach Luciano Spalletti.
Part of his elimination from the group at EURO 2024 was due to the relative lack of playing time at Juve and being used out of position by Allegri.
“Clearly, that was an enormous disappointment, but this is negative energy that I try to cast aside,” Locatelli told Sky Sport Italia.
“I am concentrated on the present, I think only about working day by day.”
Locatelli enjoying new Juventus
He spoke to the television station following last night’s 2-2 pre-season friendly draw with French side Brest.
It was the second test of the summer under new boss Thiago Motta, along with the 3-0 defeat to Nurnberg, so Juventus are still adapting to his many changes.
“There is obviously an influx of enthusiasm. The staff members are very honest and direct, which is certainly important, because we need clear ideas. We have what it takes to do great work.”
There had been reports the 26-year-old could reunite with his former Sassuolo coach Roberto De Zerbi at Olympique Marseille this season.