It’s a complex time for Juventus, humbled 0-4 at home by Atalanta. This defeat has dashed Scudetto ambitions and raised questions about Thiago Motta’s future. Former Juventus player Leonardo Bonucci spoke to La Tripletta podcast by La Gazzetta dello Sport about the loss to Gian Piero Gasperini’s team.
The Defeat Against Atalanta
“It hurt me deeply, honestly. I saw a struggling team, except for the first few minutes. It was clear it wouldn’t be the game we hoped for. A tough game to watch, my children and I were upset. It’s a hard day for us Juventus fans. Conceding a penalty somewhat changed the game plan; at least before that, they were in the match. In such games, you need to understand the moments; the enthusiasm and desire to recover lead you to open up, but a team like Atalanta punishes you. Both coach and players must learn from these games that Juve needs to improve in every aspect.”
What’s Missing
“Today, there’s a lack of sharpness. Thiago’s style is pleasing, but in some games, they struggle to finish, and yesterday was one of those games. The players lack experience and personality and need to grow. Thiago Motta must realize that coaching Juve is unique and identify areas to improve to bring his Bologna knowledge to the team. When he replaced Sinisa (Mihajlovic), he faced similar or greater difficulties. However, Bologna plays for different goals, while Juve aims to win.”
The Project
“As a Juventus fan, I’m not happy with the results, but the project needs time. If you want immediate wins, you hire Conte, build assets, and you’re set. Any other coach needs time for everything to click, including at the club level. Motta’s project is currently inconsistent, but Juventus should give him at least another year to build a group, a team, also at the club level, to create winning conditions. It’s true Juventus lacks time, but either you change in June and bring in Conte, or you give Thiago and Giuntoli time to build on this year’s foundation by improving with new players. Before Thiago, the previous three coaches only won one trophy and built nothing. It’s unfair to put all the responsibility on him. Let’s give him time, and if time shows he’s not up to Juventus’s level, we’ll acknowledge it. Now he’s under pressure; he must step up in management and communication. Last night, ‘sad’ and ‘disappointed’ isn’t enough… You have to be angry because it was embarrassing!”
The Positives
“Today’s Juventus players, in this climate, struggle more to emerge if they lack strong personality. They need more time. I believe Thiago has allowed Juventus to dominate games in terms of play, which doesn’t guarantee wins, but with the growth of two-three players bought this year and adding another two-three, you can return to the top. You’ve built a foundation for next year to be a step up. Yildiz played few games last year; today, selling him for 80-90 million would be an asset. Mbangula too, Thuram as well… Di Gregorio is doing well; it’s not all negative. If it’s a three-year project, you need time. I understand Juventus fans; I’m the first to get frustrated, but I’m confident next year with Thiago can be positive.”