Dusan Vlahovic was replaced during the break today 0-0 draw against Napleswhich means he didn’t score for Juventus for a month.
Thiago Motta insists he is not worried about Juventus star Vlahovic but the Serbia international has only scored in one game this season, albeit a brace in a 3-0 win over Hellas Verona on August 26 during the 2nd day of Serie A.
Today, Motta has replaced the former Fiorentina attacking against Naples after just 45 minutes today. This raised eyebrows as it was a tactical decision after Vlahovic had only taken six touches against the Partenopei, as highlighted by SofaScore.
“It is also the duty of others to trap him,” Motta said at a post-match press conference attended by Football Italia.
“Napoli didn’t give him any space.”
Vlahovic hits new record as Juventus’ goal drought continues
Juventus still failed to create much after Vlahovic’s exit, collecting their third consecutive 0-0 draw in Serie A this season.
“There is no protocol for replacements,” Motta continued.
“It’s about my feelings and the feelings of my colleagues. I focus on what I see. Sometimes I make the right decision, sometimes I don’t.”
Juventus still lack a genuine replacement for Vlahovic, with their only other centre-forward, Poland’s Arkadiusz Milik, sidelined through injury since the start of the season.
US international right winger Timothy Weah replaced Vlahovic in Juventus’ attack against Napoli.
“I am satisfied with Vlahovic,” Motta said.
“I couldn’t talk quietly to my players because there was a lot of noise. I never told him anything. On the contrary, I told him what to do in a specific situation and I did it shortly after. His attitude is fantastic.”
Juventus’ next Serie A match will be away Genoa on Saturday, September 28, more than a month after Vlahovic’s last league goal.
