Despite having scored six goals in their opening two matches against Como and Verona respectively, the Bianconeri currently find themselves heavily sterile in the offensive phase after two consecutive score-less stalemates against Roma and Empoli.
As it stands, coach Thiago Motta’s side have failed to portray that ruthlessness and impeccable high press they demonstrated in their first two outings as they currently find themselves 11th in the league for shots on target, 19th for average shot distance, and 17th for expected-goals.
Following a rough patch for the Bianconeri, La Gazzetta dello Sport highlights two key reasons for the dip in form within Juventus’ front-line.
The predominate reason is that Motta’s key signings have failed to make an immediate impact as the Italian tactician has constantly changed tactics over the course of the transfer window.
Dutchman Teun Koopmeiners, Douglas Luiz and Nico Gonzalez struggled against the Azzurri as the three marquee signings lots the ball the most on the pitch. Furthermore, the Argentine failed to find the back of the net after three attempts on target, a stat in which we have never witnessed from the former Fiorentina winger.
With the arrivals of Motta’s key signings still fresh, it is expected that with time the new reinforcements will eventually adapt under the former Bologna coach’s tactics and gel in the attacking phase of the pitch.
Moreover, it is becoming increasingly evident that Serbian forward Dusan Vlahovic does not possess the killer instinct and consistency in-front of goal that is required in a top club, failing to find the back of the net in two consecutive displays.
Hence, a second forward such as Milik on the game-sheet is essential to serve as a game-changing player who can either serve as replacement or even play along-side the former Fiorentina man, enabling Juventus to potentially shift momentum and unblock rigid defences.
Despite Motta having brought on youngster Samuel Mbangula and central midfielder Nicolo Fagioli in the hopes of injecting pace and creativity in the squad, the pair were quite disappointing as they each recorded six turnovers, unable to make the ball stick in the final third.
It remains to be seen whether Thiago Motta can find the necessary solutions to cope with squads that press high and neutralize the width of the pitch.
Julian Faustini Ι GIFN
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