Juventus have officially parted ways with Thiago Motta, dismissing the manager following a string of disappointing results. The Turin-based club has swiftly appointed Igor Tudor as his replacement, hoping for a turnaround in fortunes.
Motta’s tenure, which began with high expectations, crumbled under the weight of successive defeats and early exits from major competitions.
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Juventus Part Ways with Motta After Series of Setbacks
The 42-year-old’s position became untenable after back-to-back humiliations in Serie A—losing 4-0 at home to Atalanta and suffering a 3-0 defeat at Fiorentina. These results left Juventus sitting in fifth place, 12 points adrift of league leaders Inter Milan. Furthermore, Motta’s squad failed to progress beyond the Champions League playoff round, suffering an unexpected elimination at the hands of PSV Eindhoven in February. Their misery compounded when they were knocked out of the Coppa Italia quarter-finals by Empoli after a penalty shootout.
Confirming his dismissal, Juventus released an official statement: “Juventus FC announces that it has relieved Thiago Motta of his position as coach of the men’s first team. Juventus FC also announces that it has entrusted the leadership of the men’s first team to Igor Tudor, who will direct the first training session tomorrow.”
Motta’s Short-Lived Tenure Ends in Disappointment
Appointed in June on a three-year contract after guiding Bologna to Champions League qualification, Motta was initially seen as a promising long-term solution. Juventus remained unbeaten for 21 consecutive league matches earlier in the campaign but registered 13 draws during that period, which kept them out of the title race.
Motta’s approach to squad management also raised eyebrows. His firm stance on key players saw Federico Chiesa being deemed surplus to requirements, leading to his transfer to Liverpool last summer. This, coupled with poor form, contributed to a deteriorating relationship with both the dressing room and the fanbase.
Reports in Italy suggest that Motta was informed of his dismissal while spending time with his family in Portugal. The former Italy international later shared his thoughts on the situation.
“I have experienced intense moments, always facing them with maximum determination and the desire to improve every day,” Motta told ANSA. “I thank the ownership for giving me the opportunity to be part of this great club, the management, and all the people at the club who have supported me in my daily work. I also thank the players for their effort and commitment from day one. I wish the fans and Juventus all the best for the future.”
Despite signing a contract until 2027, his tenure at the club lasted a mere nine months. Juventus’ decision to cut ties before the season’s conclusion highlights their urgency to steady the ship with nine league matches still to play.
Igor Tudor Returns to Turin
With Motta’s departure, Juventus have turned to a familiar face—Igor Tudor. The 46-year-old, a former Bianconeri defender and Croatia international, most recently managed Lazio. He also worked as Andrea Pirlo’s assistant at Juventus in 2020, making his return to the club a natural fit.
Tudor arrived in Turin on Sunday night and is set to take charge of his first training session on Monday afternoon. His first challenge will come against Genoa at home, where he will aim to inspire an immediate response from the squad.
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FAQs
Why did Juventus sack Thiago Motta?
Juventus dismissed Thiago Motta after consecutive heavy defeats in Serie A, a poor Champions League campaign, and early Coppa Italia elimination.
Who is Igor Tudor, Juventus’ new manager?
Igor Tudor is a former Juventus player and ex-Lazio boss who previously worked as Andrea Pirlo’s assistant at the club in 2020.
How long was Thiago Motta in charge of Juventus?
Motta lasted just nine months at Juventus despite signing a three-year contract in June 2023.
What were Thiago Motta’s biggest failures at Juventus?
His tenure saw Juventus fall 12 points behind Inter in Serie A, get knocked out of the Champions League in the playoff round, and lose to Empoli in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals.
When will Igor Tudor manage his first game for Juventus?
Tudor will take charge of Juventus for the first time against Genoa this Saturday.
