Juventus Must Demonstrate Strong Character To Overcome Manchester City In Champions League Clash

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Juventus coach Thiago Motta emphasised the need for his young team to perform at their peak against Manchester City in the Champions League on Wednesday. Juventus are currently 19th in the 36-team standings, having not won since their 3-2 victory over RB Leipzig in October. They have lost four of their last six home matches in the competition, including a recent defeat to Stuttgart.

Motta acknowledged the challenges his team will face against the Premier League champions, despite City's recent form under Pep Guardiola. "It is a Champions League game, two big clubs facing each other. We have to concentrate on what we have to do, everything else is relative," Motta stated. He highlighted the importance of staying compact and playing with intensity.

Manchester City have struggled recently, winning only once in their last nine games across all competitions. Injuries have plagued them, with key players like Oscar Bobb, John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Manuel Akanji unavailable for the trip to Turin. However, Phil Foden and Mateo Kovacic are expected to return.

Juventus also face injury issues ahead of their clash with City at Allianz Arena. Andrea Cambiaso, Gleison Bremer, Juan Cabal, and Arkadiusz Milik will be absent. Nonetheless, Weston McKennie and Douglas Luiz have returned to training and are anticipated to play.

Reflecting on City's recent struggles, Motta praised Guardiola's achievements at Manchester City. "In recent years Manchester City have won everything, and you just have to congratulate them on the value they have shown," Motta remarked. He acknowledged Guardiola's consistent success as proof of his coaching prowess.

Motta expressed satisfaction with the return of key players but noted that injuries aren't solely responsible for Juventus' problems. "Tomorrow, those who deserve to play will play and obviously those who have been out for a while need more time," he said. Motta added that it's beneficial to have players back who can contribute positively.

The Juventus manager stressed that his squad has shown great character and solidarity on the pitch. "We are a young team that can improve in every aspect of the game," he added. Motta believes focusing on quality will help create difficulties for Manchester City during the match.