Motta’s poor relationship with some Juventus players leaves coach’s future in doubt

Thiago Motta’s words in the aftermath of a Coppa Italia exit at the hands of Empoli highlighted his poor relationship with part of the Juventus dressing room, leaving the coach’s future at the Allianz Stadium in doubt.

Thiago Motta’s Juventus have been eliminated from two competitions – Coppa Italia and Champions League – in a week, and according to Gazzetta, not even a top-four finish could be enough for the ex-Italy international to remain in Turin beyond the summer.

Poor relationship with some Juventus players leaves Motta’s future in doubt

Motta was highly critical of the team last night, highlighting a poor relationship with part of the dressing room.

Motta said he was “ashamed” by the performance and attitude and warned that some players demand more than what they give.

Gazzetta had already reported that Motta’s relationship with part of the dressing room wasn’t ideal, which was further highlighted by the coach’s post-match comments last night.

According to the report, the club must carefully consider Motta’s weak connections with part of the team and whether their rapport can be fixed in the coming months and during the 2025-26 campaign. The Bianconeri don’t want to change over 10 players again next season, so even a Champions League placement may not allow the ex-Italy international to remain in charge beyond the summer.

It remains to be seen how the team will react to Motta’s post-match comments. Their next game is at home against Hellas Verona next Monday.

Source: Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper, February 27, 2025, page six.