epa11777785 Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic during the Italian Serie A soccer match Juventus FC vs Venezia FC at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, 14 December 2024. EPA-EFE/ALESSANDRO DI MARCO

Juventus coach Thiago Motta insists Dusan Vlahovic lost his starting spot in recent games due to an injury and warns that ‘competition is crucial’ at a top club.

Juventus will visit Napoli at the Stadio Maradona on Saturday. Several sources claim that new signing Randal Kolo Muani will start in attack, pushing Vlahovic to the bench for the third consecutive match.

The Old Lady’s boss, Thiago Motta, previewed the game during a pre-match press conference on Friday but didn’t reveal who would start as a centre-forward against the Partenopei.

Vlahovic has been linked with Chelsea and Arsenal in recent weeks.

Motta clarifies his stance on Vlahovic amid Chelsea and Arsenal links

“Randal and Nico can play on the wings. We have alternatives. Dusan has played so much until now,” said Motta.

“He’s had an injury that has affected him slightly. He was introduced from the bench in the last two games. Let’s see who will start tomorrow.”

Nico Gonzalez started as a false nine against Milan and Club Brugge, while Vlahovic was introduced as a substitute from the bench in both matches.

“After the game against Brugge, I spoke about our strikers but noticed it was seen as criticism,” Motta continued.

“I’ve never dared to criticise one of my players, first thing. On the contrary, I’d criticise one of my players only for their attitude, but given that their attitude is always excellent, I don’t blame them.”

Kolo Muani’s move to Turin will bolster Motta’s attacking options, so the ex-Italy international doesn’t expect to see Vlahovic leave this month.

“Competition in training is crucial, especially at a big club,” the former midfielder added.

“There must be competition at a top club, with many games. It will raise the level in training and during games.”

Vlahovic’s Juventus future remains uncertain as his contract expires in 2026, and Juventus have failed to reach an agreement over a new deal.

This means the Bianconeri will have to sell the Serbia international in the summer if he refuses to commit his future to the club to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year.

Click here to read every word from Motta’s pre-match press conference.