Thiago Motta: Juventus-Inter Clash May Be Season’s Most Pivotal Game
Juventus manager Thiago Motta believes the upcoming Derby d’Italia against Inter could be the most significant match of the season, though he feels no pressure following three straight wins leading up to Sunday’s clash.
In his pre-match press conference on Saturday, Motta shared his views on Juventus’ current form, their opponents, and recent refereeing controversies in Serie A. He began by providing an injury update, confirming Andrea Cambiaso’s return to the squad for the first time since late January.
“The team is in good shape after our recent victories. I’ve seen the players looking fit and ready,” Motta stated. “We’ll be without Kalulu, Bremer, Milik, and Cabal tomorrow, but Cambiaso is back. Kelly is also fine.”
Motta emphasized that Juventus is not feeling pressured ahead of the crucial Inter match:
“We always strive for victory – that’s our job. We need to prepare properly and do everything right to achieve it. However, we must earn it by giving our all against a strong opponent. This game is extremely important, perhaps the most crucial of the season. We need to function as a cohesive unit throughout the entire match.”
When asked about Inter coach Simone Inzaghi, Motta expressed respect: “Inzaghi is an excellent coach whom I greatly respect. I see him as a serious professional who stands by his approach. He’s a human being first, then a coach.”
Motta also praised January signing Renato Veiga, who has been thrust into a center-back role due to injuries: “Renato has the ability to initiate play without requiring a midfielder to drop back. He’s skilled at short passes, finding open teammates between the lines, and has an excellent long pass.”
Regarding the state of refereeing in Serie A, Motta took a measured stance: “Mistakes happen and always will. I make errors too, so I can’t judge. I respect everyone’s opinions. When controversies arise, we’re all responsible, myself included. There’s excessive discussion, but it’s part of the game. We just hope for fewer mistakes tomorrow. Referees need support – no simulation, no violent fouls. We’ve gone from one extreme to another. It’s an aspect of the sport that needs to be accepted.”