Why Thiago Motta was sacked and what’s next after Tudor

Juventus’ decision to dismiss Thiago Motta and appoint Igor Tudor has become one of the most significant managerial failures in recent Serie A history. When the club appointed the former Bologna coach, expectations were high. Motta had just led Bologna to their first-ever UEFA Champions League qualification. And Juventus sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli saw him as the perfect candidate to lead a new era. However, few anticipated how quickly things would unravel.

Despite making numerous squad adjustments to align with Motta’s tactical approach, Juventus found themselves dealing with internal tensions and poor results. A disappointing UEFA Champions League exit against PSV Eindhoven only worsened the situation. As Motta gradually lost control of the dressing room, the club realized his dismissal was inevitable and acted before the season’s end.

On March 23, Juventus officially parted ways with Motta, just weeks before the 2024-25 season concluded. In Motta place, former Juventus defender Igor Tudor was named interim manager. His primary task is to guide the team through their final domestic fixtures and the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. Where they will face Manchester City, Wydad Casablanca, and Al-Ain in the group stage.

Why Did Juventus sack Thiago Motta and appointed Tudor ?

The growing discord between Motta, his squad, Juventus’ management, and the fans reached its breaking point in recent weeks. One of the most symbolic moments of his downfall occurred when supporters left the Allianz Stadium early during a crushing 4-0 defeat to Atalanta. That match marked the end of Motta’s credibility at the club.

Thiago Motta – Getty Images 📸

Despite being just one point behind Bologna in the race for Champions League qualification, Juventus decided they could not afford to wait any longer. Motta’s inability to implement the fluid attacking football he displayed at Bologna frustrated both fans and players. Many had expected a fresh tactical approach, but Juventus instead looked uninspired and disconnected on the pitch.

Players and coach disconnected?

His strained relationships with key players also contributed to his downfall. Former club captain Danilo was sidelined early in the season and left the club in January. Federico Chiesa, forced to train separately during the summer, was later sold to Liverpool. Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny initially retired after Juventus signed Michele Di Gregorio, only to later sign with Barcelona and reverse his decision.

Dusan Vlahović also found himself out of favor, featuring in just one of Juventus’ last nine Serie A matches after reportedly clashing with Motta following a Supercoppa Italiana defeat to AC Milan. These incidents highlighted the internal fractures that had developed under Motta’s leadership.

When Juventus initially appointed Motta, optimism was high. He was seen as a fresh alternative following the departure of Massimiliano Allegri, who was dismissed despite winning the Coppa Italia. Allegri’s exit came after a heated on-field dispute with Giuntoli.

Although Allegri’s second stint from 2021 to 2024 yielded just one trophy, he was a stabilizing figure during a turbulent period that included a financial scandal forcing the entire board—including chairman Andrea Agnelli—to resign. Without Allegri, the squad appeared to lack direction, and Giuntoli faced enormous pressure to make the right call. Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport even suggest Giuntoli later admitted to Motta that he regretted appointing him, further exposing the club’s instability.

With Motta gone, some see the move as Giuntoli’s last-ditch effort to salvage his own position. His decision to bring in Tudor is a gamble. One that could determine not just Juventus’ Champions League hopes but also his future at the club.

What’s Next for Juventus after Tudor ?

Juventus cannot afford another misstep, and Giuntoli knows his position is under scrutiny. The club faces a difficult challenge—finding a coach who can implement a clear tactical identity while achieving results.

Over the past decade, only Maurizio Sarri, known for his attacking philosophy, managed to win a league title with Juventus. However, even he was forced to adapt his style to secure the 2019-20 Serie A championship. Every other manager—Andrea Pirlo, Motta, and even Sarri himself—was dismissed after just one season. This pattern of instability has made it difficult for Juventus to establish a long-term footballing vision.

Tudor now has the responsibility of securing Champions League qualification. Reports suggest that if he succeeds, he could remain in charge until 2026. However, if he fails to impress, Juventus will likely seek a new manager after the FIFA Club World Cup.

Who Will Be Juventus’ Next Manager?

Mancini – Conte 📸

Speculation is already circulating regarding Juventus’ next managerial appointment. Early reports indicate that Antonio Conte, Roberto Mancini, and Stefano Pioli are among the frontrunners. However, the club must first focus on salvaging their current season.

Giuntoli’s future at Juventus is also uncertain. If Tudor struggles, the sporting director himself may not survive the summer. The next few months will be critical in determining whether Juventus can finally break their cycle of managerial instability or if further upheaval awaits.

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Dardan

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