Capello Criticizes Juventus’ Tactical Approach
Former Juventus coach Fabio Capello has not shied away from critiquing his old club, particularly after their recent Coppa Italia elimination by Empoli. In an interview with Sky Sport Italia, Capello pointed out significant issues in the team’s defensive strategy and overall mentality. He noted that Juventus allowed Empoli to approach their goal too easily, lacking the grit and determination that has historically defined the club. Capello compared Juventus’ performance to that of Milan, stating that both teams exhibited a notable absence of quality, drive, and resilience. This criticism underscores the frustration among Juventus supporters and highlights the club’s struggle to adapt and perform at its best in high-pressure situations.
The Dilemma of Chiesa’s Absence
One of the most glaring issues Capello identified was the decision to leave Federico Chiesa out of the squad. Chiesa, known for his moments of brilliance that can lift the team’s morale, was a vital player for Juventus in the past. Capello argued that the decision to exclude him has been detrimental to the team’s performance. Juventus seemed to have shifted their focus towards a long-term strategy, aiming to win the Scudetto in three years. However, this approach has left them bereft of the immediate impact and versatility that Chiesa could provide. Capello’s critique suggests that short-term tactical decisions can have significant long-term consequences, especially in a club with high expectations.
Motta’s Realization of Tactical Flaws
Despite the criticisms, Capello found a silver lining in Thiago Motta’s recent managerial adjustments. Motta, who has been relying heavily on ball possession, seems to have finally realized that such a strategy is not always effective. Capello mentioned that Motta expressed frustration with Gatti, indicating that he now prefers more vertical passes. This shift in tactical thinking is crucial, as Capello has observed that whenever Juventus faced opponents with more speed and determination, they struggled. Motta’s willingness to adapt could be a positive step forward for the team, potentially leading to more dynamic and effective play.
Holding Giuntoli Accountable
Cristiano Giuntoli, Juventus’ sporting director, is also under scrutiny for the club’s underwhelming performance this season. Capello believes that Giuntoli and the management team share responsibility for the team’s failures. He emphasized that wise decisions must be made when signing players, particularly those who can handle the pressure of wearing a Juventus jersey. Capello noted that while Juventus has spent a substantial amount of money on transfers, the investments have not been prudent. The team has good players, but none who stand out as game-changers. This criticism highlights the importance of strategic planning in the transfer market, especially for a club with a rich history and high standards.
Vlahovic’s Struggles and Future Uncertainty
Dusan Vlahovic, a key striker for Juventus, missed a crucial penalty kick in the Coppa Italia match and is now at the center of transfer speculation. Capello highlighted that Vlahovic’s lack of trust from the coach has affected his performance and confidence. The striker’s miscontrol of the ball during the game was a turning point, causing him to lose his composure. Capello suggested that Vlahovic is not feeling comfortable at the club, which could explain his recent errors and the potential for his departure in the summer. From a tactical perspective, Capello felt that Kolo Muani, when paired with Vlahovic, showed promise, but the lack of a well-occupied penalty area hindered their effectiveness.
The Minimum Target: Securing a Top-Four Finish
With their eliminations from the Coppa Italia and the Champions League, Juventus now faces the critical task of securing a top-four finish in Serie A. Capello pointed out that two and a half Champions League spots are already occupied by strong contenders, leaving a fierce battle for the fourth position. He stressed the importance of approaching each game with full focus and determination, as anything less would be unacceptable for a club of Juventus’ stature. The need to prioritize and perform consistently in the league is now more crucial than ever, given the club’s financial investments and the high expectations set by fans and stakeholders.
