Juventus coach Thiago Motta is happy with what he saw at the beginning of the second half against FC Nürnberg but admits the Bianconeri must improve ‘quickly’ and reveals that Matias Soulé didn’t want to be involved in the game.
Motta’s Juventus suffered a 3-0 loss to FC Nürnberg in their first pre-summer friendly in Germany.
The new Bianconeri coach started two new signings, Michele Di Gregorio and Khephren Thuram, but initially rested international players returning to the team after the Euros and Copa America.
“We can control the game better, keep the ball possession for longer to be organised, tire the opponents out and find the space to attack,” the Juventus coach said in the mixed zone after the game, as quoted by Ilbianconero.com.
“We did well at times at the start of the second half, but then, in the general disorganization going forward, we let the opponents the opportunity to find space. At the start of the second half, I saw a team that could dominate the opponents and create. This is our idea. We must stretch this moment and try to do it for as long as possible.
“We prepared well. Of course, some players struggle a bit more in this period because we are training more intensively than during the season,” insisted Motta.
Thiago Motta says Soulé didn’t want to play friendly but Juventus ‘must improve quickly’
“Today’s defeat must be taken in the right way but surely we must improve quickly. We must continue working like this, as we’ve done these days.”
Timothy Weah was among the players introduced in the second half and Motta will likely play the USMNT star in a more attacking role compared to last season.
“I am not considering playing him as a full-back, but he’s available to play in that position,” he said.
“He can also play as an attacking winger on the right, left, or even striker. He is important to give us more options; I am happy with Timothy.”
Motta started many NextGen players; who impressed him more?
“I liked them all, but to name one now would be unfair. We’ll see who can keep up to this level and remain with us.”
Soulé is on the verge of joining Roma for €30m, so he requested not to be involved in the game.
“We spoke after yesterday’s training. He asked not to be involved, and I thought it was the right choice,” said Motta.
Last but not least, Motta spoke about Juventus’ summer strategies with the Bianconeri expected to sign at least three more players.
“I am sure we’ll build a competitive team,” said the coach.
“We’ll get the players we need at the right time, but I do no doubt we’ll have a competitive team.”