Motta Calls Out Juventus For Lacklustre Attack In Empoli Draw

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Thiago Motta expressed dissatisfaction with Juventus' offensive performance in their 0-0 Serie A draw against Empoli. Despite dominating possession, Juve struggled to break down a well-organised Empoli defence, managing only three shots on target from 15 attempts. Their expected goals (xG) for the match stood at a mere 0.89.

The draw against Empoli followed another goalless draw with Roma before the international break, where Juventus tested the goalkeeper just once. Motta highlighted the team's inability to create dangerous crosses and penetrate Empoli's solid defence. "We barely got to the point of making the cross we wanted to make," he said during a press conference.

Motta emphasised that improving wing play is crucial for better attacking output. He stated, "It's not easy with a team that defends like Empoli; we had difficulties. [But] not only Dusan [Vlahovic] has to fill the penalty area ... We definitely have to improve on the sides and get to feed our attacker and those who come from behind."

In an attempt to inject fresh energy into the game, Motta made four substitutions in the 67th minute. Manuel Locatelli, Nicolas Gonzalez, Douglas Luiz, and Kenan Yildiz were replaced by Khephren Thuram, Timothy Weah, Nicolo Fagioli, and striker Samuel Mbangula. Motta praised these players for quickly adapting to his tactical demands despite limited training time.

"They are great players and already in training with little time [they have had], they are able to understand what I want and how they should behave," Motta added. "The four came in to give freshness. We didn't change anything on the tactical side but preferred to give continuity."

Upcoming Champions League Challenge

Juventus will return to Champions League action on Tuesday after missing out last season. They will host PSV in the revamped 2024-25 edition of the competition. Motta acknowledged that each game presents different challenges and emphasised the need for control against PSV.

"Every game is different; the first two we faced [the way we wanted]. Today was a different game [to what it] will be on Tuesday, against a team that plays good soccer and attacks," Motta said. "We have to be good at controlling the game without allowing them to feel comfortable because when they have the ball they always attack with many players."

The head coach remains optimistic about his team's potential growth as they continue to adapt and improve together on the pitch.