Thiago Motta credits Bologna players with the right attitude against Salernitana, believes their approach is ‘good for football’ and comments on Xabi Alonso’s decision.
The Rossoblu made short work of rock bottom Salernitana, with well-worked goals from Riccardo Orsolini, Alexis Saelemaekers and in stoppages Charalampos Lykogiannis.
This result not only consolidates fourth place in the Serie A table, but it takes them to within just two points of Juventus in third.
Bologna had not been this close to Juve after 30 Serie A rounds since the 1970-71 campaign.
“It is a good moment of form, certainly, it is wonderful for everyone for the results and the way we are playing. I am proud, satisfied and this enthusiasm we feel both within the team and in the stadium with the fans takes us to a deserved victory,” Thiago Motta told Sky Sport Italia.
“I thank everyone who is working behind the scenes to make this Bologna team work, but the biggest thanks was to my daughter Sofia in the stands, as I can’t remember the last time she sent me a message wishing me luck. This morning she did, she was in the stands too, so I have to thank her!”
Thiago Motta was a little irritated with some of the showboating in the second half, particularly Saelemaekers and Lewis Ferguson.
“We took the lead with two great goals, but I also want to credit the defensive work that everyone did to keep a clean sheet. When we are 2-0 up, we ought to be in control of the game and not do what we started to do in the second half.
“I already had a talk with Lewis and Alexis after the match, because we know how to approach this to be balanced and get the best results.”
Bologna have a surprisingly deep squad at their disposal and the rotation is another reason why their season is going so well.
“I pick my players based on previous performances, on training sessions, the way certain players work together. We are fortunate in modern football to have so much data available and all this helps us make decisions, always thinking of what is best for the team. The lads know that, there is a healthy competition for places, they all respect my decisions and everyone is happy.”
The coach was above all very pleased when told that Bologna are one of the most pleasurable teams to watch in Italy right now, so that even people who aren’t their fans will happily tune in.
“I think Bologna are good for football at the moment, and having people who love the sport want to watch us is a great thing. Football should unite, not divide, and we want everyone to come together and enjoy sport together. That is enormously satisfying and I am very grateful for that.”
Xabi Alonso announced that despite interest from the likes of Barcelona, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, he intends to remain for at least one more year at Bayer Leverkusen. Without asking about his own future, Thiago Motta was pushed on a response.
“It is a decision he believes to be right, it’s entirely respectable, I wish him all the best. He is a great coach who has not lost a game yet this season. I always respect the choices of my colleagues.”