Di Gregorio insists Juventus players still back Motta

Yahoo

17-03-2025

Michele Di Gregorio admits he doesn't know what Juventus lack, but insists players still 'follow' coach Thiago Motta.
The Serie A giants suffered their second consecutive defeat in Florence last night, losing 3-0 to direct rivals Fiorentina.
They suffered a 4-0 home loss against Atalanta last week, which means they have conceded seven goals in the last two games and scored none.
To make things worse, Bologna beat Lazio 5-0 on Sunday, overtaking the Bianconer in fourth place.
'We feel bad, just like we did after the Atalanta match,' Di Gregorio said at a post-match press conference attended by Football Italia.
'We are the first to suffer, to be disappointed, and to know that performances like the last two are not enough; they are not up to Juventus' standards. But we also know that the way out is through work, sticking together as a team, working and working. That's all that matters because, in situations like this, it's hard to pinpoint precisely what's missing. We need to approach it from every angle.'
Director Cristiano Giuntoli met the team and the coach after the final whistle and confirmed his trust in Thiago Motta.
'The director spoke to us and, as always, tried to give us energy and a push to start again. Feeling sorry for ourselves is useless in football, just as it is in life. We need to react,' said Di Gregorio.
'We didn't speak after the match because, after games, it's best not to talk. We need to analyse ourselves both individually and as a group.'
A reporter asked Di Gregorio why Juventus players seemed to surrender on the pitch.
'It may feel that way, but giving up is not a word we consider,' the goalkeeper argued.
'To some, it might seem like that. But the team will not give up. These are difficult, challenging moments, no doubt. What are we missing? I don't know. I will rewatch the match several times if needed. We will talk and understand and listen to everyone because we are a team. We need to figure out where the difficulties lie. Now, there is a break, and we will have time to reflect. When we return, we will all talk and regroup.'
Thiago Motta refused to resign and insisted he was the right man to turn things around at the Allianz Stadium. Di Gregorio confirmed that the team is still backing the coach.
'Of course, we follow the coach, what he tells us, his ideas,' said the ex-Monza keeper.
'This is the moment to come together—the staff and the coach. Everyone united because all share the disappointment and frustration. By the coach, by the staff. We need to work; I have always faced difficulties this way. And in tough times, I have always worked even harder.'
Juventus' next home game is against Genoa at the Allianz Stadium on March 29.