Motta on new Juventus signings and ‘different’ Napoli

Juventus coach Thiago Motta feels Randal Kolo Muani can play alongside Dusan Vlahovic and expects a ‘different’ Napoli at the Stadio Maradona tomorrow.

The Bianconeri are preparing for a crucial Serie A meeting with Antonio Conte’s Napoli on Saturday.

Juventus have welcomed two new signings, Alberto Costa and Randal Kolo Muani, this month.

“It’s going really well, and the group is doing well,” Motta said at a pre-match press conference on Friday.

“Only Milik, Bremer and Cabal are not available.”

A reporter noticed that Napoli and Juventus were in a similar situation last summer, but Motta disagreed.

“The situation wasn’t really similar. I won’t repeat what I’ve already said [Napoli are title favourites]. It was different in many aspects. I am satisfied with many things, but not many with others, especially results,” the Juventus coach argued.

“We’ve drawn too many games, as I’ve already said. But I am satisfied with many other things. We have a young squad, but very talented. We had some unexpected injuries at the start of the season, but we’ve had the courage to overtake all difficulties. We’ve made some necessary changes, and tomorrow, we’ll play a big game.”

Motta on new Juventus signings and ‘different’ Napoli

Could Kolo Muani start already?

“We’ll see. He’s available. Let’s see if he starts,” Motta replied.

“We’ve signed a player of his level because we think he fits into a big club like Juventus. We believe he can help the team win games.”

Dusan Vlahovic started the last two games on the bench. Is he still a key part of the Juventus project?

“Randal and Nico can play on the wings. We have alternatives. Dusan has played so much until now,” said Motta.

“He’s had an injury that has affected him slightly. He was introduced from the bench in the last two games. Let’s see who will start tomorrow.

“Competition in training is crucial, especially at a big club,” continued Motta.

“There must be competition at a top club, with many games. It will raise the level in training and during games.”

Juventus collected a 0-0 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League on Tuesday, and Motta didn’t seem entirely happy with his striker. However, he clarified that he never criticised any of his players.

“After the game against Brugge, I spoke about our strikers but noticed it was seen as criticism,” said the Bianconeri boss.

“I’ve never dared to criticise one of my players, first thing. On the contrary, I’d criticise one of my players only for their attitude, but given that their attitude is always excellent, I don’t blame them.

“I know my strikers’ value, and I know they have the potential to help the team. I know how difficult it is because I’ve been inside [a dressing room] for a long time. Many things, also off the pitch, could contribute to a moment of difficulty. This is what I wanted to say when I spoke about them. I know they have the potential to help the team. I’ve never criticised one of my players.”

The first-leg game between Napoli and Juventus in Turin was played in September. The Bianconeri dominated possession but were unable to score as the Partenopei put in a solid defensive performance. Motta expects something different from Conte’s men tomorrow.

“I expect a different game. It’s a Napoli characteristic to defend with a low block, and it’s no coincidence that they’ve only conceded 14 goals. But they play at home, so they’ll try to dominate proceedings. I expect a Napoli willing to attack, but we’ll want to do the same and be organised defensively, knowing when we must press and how to use the ball wisely,” he said.

“Napoli are a great team with a good coach. They deserve to be table leaders. Right now, we are behind. Surely, it will be a big game tomorrow, as usual, between Juventus and Napoli, and we want to offer our best version to win.

“The reality is that they are ahead today, deservedly. We’ve prepared well to be ready for a good performance against the table leaders, always aiming to win.”

Lastly, Motta praised Manuel Locatelli, who became the Juventus captain after Danilo’s exit.

“His personality in the dressing room is very important. This is why he’s become the team’s captain without any need to force anything,” said Motta.

“He’s earned it with his example, attitude, and performances. What he does on the pitch is important to the team. He makes the team work better.

“I’ve never heard a complaint or that he could not do something. Never. Manu does this so he’s an example to others.”