Motta ‘unhappy’ with Juventus results, but has no transfer expectations | OneFootball

Juventus coach Thiago Motta says he and the players are the ‘first ones to be unhappy’ with recent poor results but has no expectations regarding the transfer window: ‘We are on the same page.’

Juventus host Empoli at the Allianz Stadium on Sunday and will be looking to bounce back after two consecutive defeats against Napoli and Benfica.

“We have an important match to play against Empoli at home. And we want to have a great game to achieve the win,” Motta said at a pre-match press conference on Saturday, as quoted by Ilbianconero.com.

“We are the first ones to be unhappy with the results, especially the last two we’ve had. The important thing is to focus on tomorrow, play a great match, and get the win, which is our main goal.”

Pierre Kalulu has suffered a thigh injury and will be out for over three weeks. Therefore, Chelsea loanee Renato Veiga could start in central defence tomorrow and make his debut for the Old Lady.

“It’s unfortunate not to have Pierre with us; he’s played many games since he arrived,” said Motta.

Motta ‘unhappy’ with Juventus results, but has no transfer expectations

NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Thiago Motta Juventus head coach during the Serie A match between Napoli and Juventus at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 25, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“He won’t be here, but others will step in and perform well. I find the new players in very good form; they will be a great help. We’ll see tomorrow if they start or if they come in during the match. They will help the team.”

Randal Kolo Muani seems to be the favourite to start in attack, but Motta believes the PSG loane can play alongside Dusan Vlahovic.

“The attackers can all play together; they are great players with different characteristics, and they can certainly play together. All of them,” said the coach.

Juventus have signed three players in the January transfer window, and there are reports that they are willing to add a fourth one, ideally Kevin Danso, on loan from RC Lens.

“I have no expectations about the transfer market. Never had any. I’ve never discussed the market; we are on the same page,” Motta insisted.

“I’ve said it many times, and I’ll repeat it: the market will end in a few days and that’s interesting, then we’ll talk only about what we have and continue with the season. And I’m very happy with the team I have, with my players, we all work every day to improve our situation, starting with the match against Empoli.”

Nicolò Fagioli has an agreement with Fiorentina but will be available against Empoli.

“Yes, he will be with us tomorrow, just like he was with us against Benfica. He played less, but he can change his story,” said Motta.

“I understand, when you play, you’re happy. When you don’t play, you’re a little less happy. It’s up to them to participate and earn the chance to play. Like everyone else, Fagioli has the opportunity and ability to prove he deserves to play.”