Motta on Kolo Muani-Vlahovic decision, new Juventus defenders and Barça influence | OneFootball

Juventus coach Thiago Motta insists Randal Kolo Muani and Dusan Vlahovic will start together at the right time and praises Cesc Fabregas as a talented and prepared coach.

Juventus visit Como at the Stadio Sinigaglia on Friday in the opening match of Serie A Round 24.

New Bianconeri signing Kolo Muani has had a remarkable impact at the Allianz Stadium, scoring three goals in his opening two appearances.

This, however, has pushed Juventus’ top scorer, Vlahovic, to the bench, so Motta was asked whether the pair could start simultaneously in the Bianconeri attack.

“We are a team, and the most important thing is the collective. Balance is needed, and the team must function well in both phases,” said the Bianconeri boss.

“They are top-level players, and when the time comes, when I think it’s best for the team, they will play together; otherwise, one will start, and the other will come on, or maybe neither will play. The choices are always made in the best interest of the team.”

Motta on Kolo Muani-Vlahovic decision, new Juventus defenders and Barça influence

epa11804150 Juventus’s head coach Thiago Motta gestures during the Supercoppa Italiana semi-final match between Juventus FC and AC Milan, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 03 January 2025. EPA-EFE/STR

Vlahovic only started one of the last three Juventus games when Kolo Muani was unavailable in the Champions League against Benfica. Nevertheless, Motta is happy with the Serbian’s attitude.

“I am very happy. But attitude and mindset are fundamental and must set an example,” he argued.

“This is crucial for working as a group. Dusan’s attitude has always been impeccable so far. He is a player who trains well and accepts decisions for the good of the team.”

Was it his decision to sign Kolo Muani?

“It was our decision; we all agreed that a player of his level could, and still can, improve and raise the team’s level,” Motta replied.

“We are delighted to have him in the squad.”

Juventus kept Andrea Cambiaso in January and signed three new defenders: Lloyd Kelly, Renato Veiga and Alberto Costa.

The latter has been left out of Juventus’ Champions League list with only three possible changes.

“I explained the situation to him; we are all very happy with his work,” said Motta.

“I like him because he came in with great hunger. He works hard every day and has great value. When his opportunity comes, he will be ready to seize it.

“Technically, Renato Veiga and Kelly are very skilled, and they can play together and cover multiple roles. Regardless of being left-footed, their characteristics will greatly help the team,” Motta continued.

Tomorrow’s meeting with Como will see Motta reunite with another product of the Barcelona academy, the Azzurri coach Fabregas.

“I spent many years at Barcelona, a great period in an important team with a strong philosophy of play and mindset. I believe the same goes for Fabregas. Even when playing against big teams, Como always move forward. I have never seen them sit back, and they have done very well. Fabregas is proving to be a very prepared and talented coach.”

During the press conference, Motta also spoke about Cambiaso’s possible move to Manchester City, saying that the Italian never thought about leaving the Bianconeri.