Former Juventus captain Leonardo Bonucci shared his thoughts on the club’s recent loss to Atalanta while speaking on “La Tripletta,” a podcast by La Gazzetta dello Sport (via Il Bianconero).
The defeat left him deeply disappointed, and he expressed concerns about the team’s current struggles under coach Thiago Motta.
Reflecting on the match, Bonucci admitted that watching Juventus fall to Atalanta was difficult for him and his family. “My heart hurt, to be honest.
I saw a team in trouble, except for the first few minutes. It was clear that it wasn’t the kind of match we all hoped for,” he said. The former defender acknowledged that conceding a penalty altered the team’s approach and that Atalanta took full advantage of the situation.
He emphasized that both the players and the coach need to learn from such setbacks and work towards improving the squad’s overall performance.
Bonucci pointed out that Juventus currently lacks sharpness in attack, a crucial aspect of Thiago Motta’s playing style.
“Thiago’s style of play is appreciated, but sometimes the team struggles to create clear scoring opportunities, and yesterday was one of those games,” he noted.
He also stressed that some players need more experience and stronger personalities to cope with the pressure of playing for Juventus.
Additionally, he remarked that coaching Juventus is a unique challenge, requiring a deep understanding of how to mold a team capable of consistently winning.
Despite his disappointment with the team’s recent performances, Bonucci believes Juventus needs to be patient with Thiago Motta. “If you want to win immediately, you bring in Antonio Conte and build around him.
But any other coach requires time for everything to fall into place,” he explained. While acknowledging the club’s lack of immediate success, he urged fans to allow Motta another season to shape the squad and establish a competitive team.
Bonucci also pointed out that the club has struggled with managerial changes in recent years. “The three coaches before Thiago only managed to win one trophy collectively, so it wouldn’t be fair to blame everything on him.
If, after some time, it’s clear that he isn’t meeting Juventus’ expectations, then decisions will have to be made,” he added.
While Juventus faces challenges, Bonucci highlighted some positives. “Juventus is playing a more dominant style of football, which is a sign of growth.
That doesn’t guarantee victories, but it shows progress. With a few more key signings, this team could become highly competitive next season,” he stated.
He praised young talents like Kenan Yildiz and Dean Huijsen, noting their market value has risen significantly. Additionally, he commended new arrivals like goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio for their contributions.
Although Juventus supporters are frustrated, Bonucci remains optimistic about the club’s trajectory. “I understand the frustration—I feel it too.
But if this is a three year project, patience is necessary. I believe next season could be a positive one with Thiago Motta still in charge,” he concluded.
Bonucci’s comments reflect a mix of concern, criticism, and hope for Juventus as they navigate a transitional phase. Whether the club’s management will stick to this project or opt for a major change remains to be seen.
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