The situation surrounding Thiago Motta’s future at Juventus remains uncertain, with the upcoming Club World Cup adding complexity to the decision-making process. The tight schedule between the end of the domestic season and the start of the international tournament leaves little room for a major overhaul at the club.
Calciomercato report that Cristiano Giuntoli, Juventus’ sporting director, faces a crucial decision regarding Motta’s position, which must be made well before the summer tournament. This is not only for planning purposes but also due to logistical constraints, as there are only three weeks between the end of one season and the beginning of the next chapter. If Motta survives the current campaign, he is likely to lead the team into the Club World Cup as well.
The club’s leadership is carefully considering various factors, including the potential impact on the future of Juventus. Qualifying for the Champions League would make a significant difference in their planning. While a change at the end of the season is not guaranteed, one possible scenario involves appointing an interim manager for the Club World Cup, allowing for a smooth transition to a potential new long-term coach afterward.
However, this is a scenario that the entire Juventus organization is reluctant to contemplate at present. It would represent the worst-case scenario, derailing not only the original three-year plan with Motta but also the idea of approaching the Club World Cup as a dark horse with the potential for a strong showing.
The financial implications of participating in the Club World Cup are also a consideration. With official prize money set at 15 million euros for participation—double that of the Coppa Italia but far less than the initially rumoured 50 million—the tournament’s value to the club is significant but not overwhelming.
In light of these factors, Juventus may even consider fielding a different team for the Club World Cup than the one they plan to rely on for the upcoming season. This could involve appointing a caretaker manager and tempering expectations for the tournament, with the focus firmly on preparing for the challenges of the next full season.
