Dusan Vlahovic was subbed off during the break in today’s 0-0 draw against Napoli, which means he hasn’t scored for Juventus for one month.
Thiago Motta insists he’s not concerned about Juventus star Vlahovic, but the Serbia international has only scored in one game this season, although it was a brace in a 3-0 win over Hellas Verona on August 26 in Serie A Round 2.
Today, Motta replaced the former Fiorentina striker against Napoli after just 45 minutes today. It raised eyebrows because it was a tactical decision after Vlahovic had only made six touches against the Partenopei, as highlighted by SofaScore.
“It is also the others’ duty to set him up,” Motta said at a post-match press conference attended by Football Italia.
“Napoli didn’t leave space for him.”
Vlahovic hits new low as Juventus goal drought continues
Juventus still didn’t create much after Vlahovic went out, collecting the third consecutive 0-0 draw in Serie A this term.
“There is no protocol for substitutions,” continued Motta.
“It’s about my feelings and the feelings of my staff members. I am focused on what I see. Sometimes I make the right decision, sometimes I don’t.”
Juventus still lack a real backup for Vlahovic, given that the only other centre-forward, the Polish Arkadiusz Milik, has been out of action with an injury since the start of the season.
USMNT international Timothy Weah, a right winger, replaced Vlahovic in the Juventus attack against Napoli.
“I am satisfied with Vlahovic,” argued Motta.
“I couldn’t talk to my players with a low tone of voice because there was a lot of noise. I never reproached him. On the contrary, I told him what to do in a specific situation and did it shortly afterwards. His attitude is fantastic.”
Juventus’ next Serie A game is away at Genoa on Saturday, September 28, more than one month after Vlahovic’s last league goal.
