11 December 2024
Coach Thiago Motta, Dusan Vlahovic and Manuel Locatelli spoke to the press following Juventus’ 2-0 win against Manchester City on Matchday 6 of the UEFA Champions League, league phase.
THIAGO MOTTA
“Tonight we had to do a lot of things well, especially with regards to compactness and concentration. We defended well, without conceding space, and struck at key moments. It was a great performance from everyone, even those who came on later in the game, they contributed when called upon. [Weston] McKennie, for example, had a great game: he has a unique mix of physical and technical qualities that allow him to be dangerous in the final third. We’re fortunate to have players like that. This was a great night, but every game is different. In Leipzig, for example, the approach had to be different because of the type of opponent. Today we were compact in defence and dangerous on the counter-attack, but always played with quality. The feelings we experienced tonight are speical, and these are moments that remind us why we do this job. When the time comes, we will evaluate where we can improve. It is important that there is harmony between everyone and that we continue to follow the same philosophy. Right now, though, we have to stay focused: we will face Venezia this weekend and we have to maintain this level.”
DUSAN VLAHOVIC
“The whole team put in an outstanding performance. We prepared for the match in detail and put our plan into action perfectly. It’s a great result and gives us a big boost for the future. I had a bit of luck for my goal, but what counts is that the ball went in. I want to continue like this. We discussed among ourselves after the Bologna game and decided that we cannot afford to wait for a slap in the face to react. The challenge against City was always going to be tough, but we have to approach the other games with the same intensity. We are a young team, and we lack some experience, but here at Juventus there is no time to lose. Hopefully this match will mark a new beginning.”
MANUEL LOCATELLI
“[Erling] Haaland is an extraordinary striker, one lapse in concentration and he punishes you. Today, however, the whole team defended perfectly. We achieved a great victory, an impressive feat against a very strong team, led by the best coach in the world. This is a victory from the heart, we played with a real fire inside us. In the league we dropped points through avoidable mistakes, and we deserved a night like this. Now we must continue with this team spirit, always sacrificing ourselves for the result.”
