Legendary Italian manager Fabio Capello has called for patience as Juventus manager Thiago Motta looks to rebuild the club, urging fans and pundits to allow the new coach more time to establish his vision, Soccernet.football reports.
Despite a strong start with back-to-back 3-0 victories over Como and Hellas Verona, Juventus have faltered in their last two matches, drawing both games goalless and struggling to create chances.
Expectations in Turin have been high, with many fans seeing the Bianconeri as the main challengers to Inter Milan for the Serie A title.
However, the disappointing display against Empoli has highlighted the challenges that Motta still faces. Juventus were sluggish in their attack, and star forward Dusan Vlahovic failed to make an impact.
Former England and Real Madrid manager Capello, writing in his editorial for La Gazzetta dello Sport via TuttoMercatoWeb, defended Motta’s efforts so far, emphasising that the team is still in a transitional phase.
“Thiago Motta should be given more time to work,” Capello stated. “Juve is a team in the making. They have made many signings. There are many new faces, and finding the right mix straight away is not easy.”
However, Capello was also quick to point out where Juventus need to improve, especially if they are to become title contenders.
“To get a result, you need more quality, more pressing, more speed,” he said. “And all this was missing against Empoli.”
Juventus now turn their attention to European competition, where they will face Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven in their first Champions League match in almost two years.
Motta’s side will be hoping to make a statement as they aim to return to their former European glory.