Juventus manager Thiago Motta addressed the media in a press conference ahead of the crucial Serie A match against Fiorentina. The game, part of Matchday 29, is under threat due to severe weather in Florence, with concerns about the Arno River potentially overflowing. Motta shared his thoughts on the team’s preparation, the challenges they face, and his own position at the club.
Injury Updates and Expectations
Motta confirmed the return of several players: “We have Rouhi, Savona, and Conceicao back. As always, playing in Florence will be difficult and complicated.” He emphasized the importance of focusing on the game: “What do I expect from the team tomorrow? Many times we’ve performed very well. We’ve won key matches, but there were others we couldn’t win. Tomorrow’s game is the most important because it’s the next one. It won’t be easy, but we must give our all to secure victory.”
Confidence and Support from the Club
Despite speculation about his future, Motta expressed gratitude for the backing he has received: “Yes, I feel total confidence from the club. I appreciated the support from ownership this week.” He dismissed rumors about his job security, stating, “My future is not a priority. The priorities are the club, the team, and tomorrow’s match. We’re only thinking about Fiorentina.”
Reflecting on Recent Performances
Motta acknowledged that recent results have been challenging but remained optimistic: “We come from a game where the result was hard to digest. We played 40 good minutes but made many mistakes and allowed too many counterattacks. At first, we were unhappy and angry because we expected to do better. But we’ve moved on and started again. I see disappointment in my players but also determination to react immediately.”
He praised his squad’s dedication: “We always have a responsibility to give our best. My players have always worked hard. Sometimes matches went our way; other times, they didn’t. Now we focus on the next game—that’s what matters most.”
Facing Fiorentina
Looking ahead to their opponents, Motta said: “I expect Fiorentina at their best. They are a great team with a coach who is doing well and quality players. In the first leg, we played one of our best games and deserved to win, even though we didn’t get the result. Tomorrow will be tough and complicated; we must show our best version.”
On Criticism and Pressure
Motta reflected on his role as a coach under scrutiny: “In our profession, coaches are always under discussion—it’s fair. I’m the first to question myself and analyze our work daily. The hardest but most important thing is staying calm to objectively assess our situation. We’ve done many things well, but there’s room for improvement.”
He also addressed external criticism: “I pay little attention to what’s said outside; I respect all opinions.” On fan expectations, he added: “I’ve been in this game for 25 years—I’ve seen it all. Fans come to see their team win; it’s up to us to deliver results.”
Final Preparations
Concluding his remarks, Motta highlighted the team’s readiness for tomorrow’s match: “All our preparation has been for this game against Fiorentina. We must be ready to compete, win duels, and gain ground to overcome our opponent.”
