Thiago Motta`s time as Juventus coach became a major disappointment in Serie A. Despite high expectations after his successful stint with Bologna, where he secured a historic Champions League qualification, his tenure at Juventus quickly deteriorated. Juventus` management, led by sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, brought in Motta to initiate a new era, supporting him with roster changes and even during conflicts with players. However, poor results, including a Champions League exit against PSV, led to a loss of team control, prompting the club to act before the season`s end.
Motta was fired on March 23rd, and former Juventus player Igor Tudor was appointed as interim manager until the season`s conclusion, which includes the FIFA Club World Cup. Let`s analyze the Juventus crisis and consider the club`s next steps.
Reasons for Thiago Motta`s Sacking
Tensions escalated between Motta, the team, management, and fans. Juventus supporters leaving the stadium early during a 4-0 defeat to Atalanta symbolized the coach`s downfall. His dismissal became inevitable as Juventus aimed for Champions League qualification, currently just behind Bologna in Serie A.
Motta failed to replicate Bologna`s successful playing style in Turin, disappointing fans and players seeking change. A divide within the team became evident. Key players like Danilo, Federico Chiesa, and Wojciech Szczesny departed or faced internal issues, impacting team dynamics. Dusan Vlahovic also saw limited playtime after a reported disagreement with Motta.
Initially, Motta`s arrival was met with enthusiasm as a fresh start after Massimiliano Allegri`s second term. However, despite winning the Coppa Italia, Allegri was also dismissed. While Allegri was a respected figure during challenging times, including the capital gains scandal, his relationship with Giuntoli strained.
Giuntoli, who joined Juventus to rebuild after the scandal, chose Motta but reportedly expressed regret over the decision, highlighting internal confusion. Firing two managers within a year suggests an attempt by Giuntoli to secure his own position. Appointing Tudor is a risky move to salvage Champions League qualification.
Juventus` Future Outlook
Juventus cannot afford more missteps, and Giuntoli is under pressure. The club, like others, seeks a coach who improves player performance and playing style. Maurizio Sarri was the only manager in the past decade with such a profile to win, but even he had to compromise his style to win Serie A. Juventus has dismissed numerous managers after just one season recently, including Sarri and Andrea Pirlo, similar to Motta`s fate.
Igor Tudor will manage the team for the rest of the season, with a potential extension until 2026 if Champions League qualification is achieved. Otherwise, Juventus will seek a new coach after the Club World Cup. Potential candidates include Antonio Conte, Roberto Mancini, and Stefano Pioli. However, the immediate focus is to rescue the current season, a task that might determine Giuntoli`s future as well.
