Following a crushing defeat to Atalanta, Juventus returned to training with a renewed focus under the guidance of head coach Thiago Motta. The team gathered at the Continassa training centre after a day of rest, using the time to reflect on what many consider their worst performance of the season. With an upcoming match against Fiorentina looming, Motta emphasized the need for accountability and improvement as the team fights to secure a top-four finish in Serie A
Motta’s Address to the Team
Gazzetta dello Sport report how the atmosphere at training was understandably sombre, but Motta took the opportunity to address his players directly. He highlighted the errors that plagued their performance against Atalanta and explained how their opponents managed to outclass them. “We must learn from this setback,” he reportedly told the squad, urging them to channel their frustrations into positive energy on the field.
Motta called for greater intensity and enthusiasm, emphasizing that every player must take responsibility for the team’s struggles. “We need to move forward together,” he said, stressing the importance of shared accountability. The coach’s words seemed to resonate with the players, who responded with determination and focus during their training session.
Preparations for Fiorentina
As Juventus prepares for a challenging away match against Fiorentina, injury concerns remain a factor. While no players have fully recovered at the start of the week, Rouhi and Savona are being monitored closely. Key players like Conceição and Douglas Luiz are expected to return after the international break, while Veiga and Yildiz could see increased availability for the Fiorentina match. Veiga recently returned from a muscle injury but remained on the bench against Atalanta, while Yildiz is recovering from a debilitating stomach virus.
The match will also carry emotional weight for two former Juventus players. Nicolò Fagioli, now with Fiorentina after a January transfer, will face his old club for the first time. Meanwhile, Moise Kean, who has rediscovered his form in Florence after struggling at Juventus, will look to continue his resurgence.
A Crucial Turning Point
This match represents a pivotal moment not only for Juventus but also for Motta himself. Both he and Fiorentina coach Raffaele Palladino have faced criticism for recent poor results. For Juventus, securing three points in Florence is essential to maintaining their grip on fourth place and keeping their Champions League hopes alive.
