Cesare Prandelli believes Dusan Vlahovic can score up to 30 goals under Thiago Motta but would not be surprised if Juventus sell Federico Chiesa this summer.
Former Italy and Fiorentina coach Prandelli has big expectations for Thiago Motta at Juventus.
Motta was unveiled as the new Bianconeri coach on Thursday, and Prandelli believes that the former midfielder will be the Old Lady’s “real top player” next season.
Prandelli coached Motta while in charge of Italy, reaching the 2012 Euro Final, which the Azzurri lost to Spain.
“He has personality and charisma,” Prandelli told Gazzetta. “And I am also convinced he arrived at Juventus at the right moment.
“He is not one who repeats the same situations on the pitch. He occupies spaces in a different way and with him, the ball possession always has two or three different solutions. Everyone knew his playing style at Bologna last season, but they still struggled to stop it.”
Juventus have already announced four new signings, including Douglas Luiz. Is the Brazilian the Old Lady’s top player?
Prandelli: Ex-Italy coach makes Vlahovic prediction but ‘not surprised’ if Juve sell Chiesa
“No, Thiago will be the top player,” Prandelli insisted.
“He will valorise everyone. Douglas Luiz is a great player, but he’ll need time to get to know his teammates, Italian football, and the Juventus world. Even Platini needed five or six months to settle in.”
Vlahovic scored 11 goals in 23 appearances at Fiorentina under Prandelli, becoming a regular starter at the Franchi. Can the Serbia international reach 30 goals next season under Motta?
“Obviously,” replied Prandelli.
“He improved a lot with Allegri and he will be even more involved with Motta. Vlahovic’s talent and potential are not under question.”
How about Chiesa? Several reports claim that the Italy International is on the market. Would Prandelli be surprised if the winger leaves Turin?
“Federico is one of those players who can make a definitive step forward with Thiago, but there are different aspects to consider, starting from motivation. It’s hard to have a precise idea from the outside. I would not be surprised if Chiesa is sacrificed. Nothing in football surprises me anymore.”
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Lastly, are Inter still the favourite to win the title? Who will be their main rival in the race to retain the Scudetto?
“Gasperini’s Atalanta can and must dream big,” argued Prandelli.
“Simone Inzaghi is the favourite. After all, he dominated in the last season. All rivals must work really hard to get close to the Nerazzurri.”