Juventus coach Thiago Motta has explained his decision to field four new players for the first time in Saturday’s Serie A trip to Empoli.
Motta surprised everyone by handing Nico Gonzalez, Douglas Luiz, Pierre Kalulu and Ten Koppmeiners their first start for Juventus, and it was a joint decision.
“The opportunities given are what the player can give to the team, considering the opponents we face and the other teammates who have to compete for a position.”
“Nico Gonzalez has scored for his country. He can attack on the right wing and get into the box. I think he will have a great game.
“Meanwhile, in the game at Stadio Castellani Motta, Mattia Perin was chosen to be the goalkeeper without any reason, even though previously new goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio had been the main goalkeeper.
“Matthia deserves to play after working hard in UFABET training. All three goalkeepers have done well and we have full confidence in Mattia,” Motta said of his decision.
Nico Gonzalez is a somewhat surprising pick for the starting XI. Especially after injury concerns while he was away with Argentina this week.
“Merit also means what a player can give to the team at this moment. Against the team we are facing and with the other teammates he will play with. Nico Gonzalez score on international duty. He can really take opponents on down the right flank and get into the box. I am convince he’ll have a great game.”