As Juventus prepares for their crucial match against Fiorentina on Sunday, the future of manager Thiago Motta hangs in the balance. While the club’s management officially maintains that Motta’s position is not in jeopardy, the outcome of this game could significantly impact his fate.
Tuttosport report that a victory or even a draw might be enough to secure Motta’s position for now. However, a defeat, especially one reminiscent of the recent crushing loss to Atalanta, could force the club to reconsider its options. The Juventus hierarchy is preparing for all eventualities, should an immediate change become necessary.
The previously rumoured option of Igor Tudor has lost traction in recent days. Juventus has been clear about its intentions to continue with Motta, ideally until the end of the season, when a comprehensive evaluation will take place. However, if an immediate separation becomes unavoidable, the club might look internally for a short-term solution. Massimo Brambilla, who has done excellent work with the Next Gen team, and Francesco Magnanelli, who worked under Allegri and knows many of the players, are potential interim options.
Juventus is reportedly hesitant to begin a new long-term project mid-season, which would rule out high-profile candidates like Gian Piero Gasperini, Antonio Conte, and even Stefano Pioli, who has been increasingly linked with the position.
This leaves Roberto Mancini as an intriguing possibility. There have been indirect contacts and general evaluations regarding Mancini. Unlike a caretaker manager, Mancini’s appointment would signal the start of a new era, with the immediate goals of securing Champions League qualification and preparing for the FIFA Club World Cup.
However, the most likely scenario remains that Motta will finish the season, especially if the team shows signs of recovery and maintains unity behind their manager. Cristiano Giuntoli, the club’s sporting director, has not intervened with the squad following the Atalanta defeat, suggesting that it’s being treated as a severe but isolated incident.
