Juventus manager Thiago Motta expressed his satisfaction with his team's depth after a dramatic 3-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League.
The match was tightly contested until substitute Samuel Mbangula scored a decisive late goal to secure the win for the Italian side.
Motta highlighted the importance of squad rotation and the ability of his substitutes to influence games, stating, "A strong bench is what separates great teams from good teams. Every player must be ready to step in and make an impact."
Juventus’ ability to rely on fresh legs late in the game proved crucial, as they absorbed PSV’s pressure before finishing the match on the front foot.
With Juventus aiming for success both domestically and in Europe, Motta emphasized the role of squad depth in maintaining consistency throughout a demanding season.
He praised the performances of his substitutes, particularly Mbangula, saying, "Samuel showed great composure and quality when it mattered most. This is the mentality we need in every player."
PSV, meanwhile, rued missed opportunities and defensive lapses that led to their downfall.
Juventus captain Danilo also weighed in on the importance of the team's collective effort, adding, "It’s not just about the starting eleven; it’s about the whole squad being ready. Everyone played their part in this win."
With this victory, Juventus continues to build momentum, reinforcing their position as a strong contender in the Champions League.
Josh Acheampong, the promising young right-back, has reportedly been sidelined by Chelsea until he signs a new contract, according to The Athletic. The 18-year-old is highly regarded by the club, having made a brief first-team appearance under manager Enzo Maresca, where he played 27 minutes in a Carabao Cup match against Barrow.
Despite his contract running until 2026, discussions are ongoing regarding his long-term future at Chelsea, but no agreements have been reached. As a result, Acheampong has seen limited action lately, even with the U21 squad.
Acheampong made his Premier League debut last season in a 2-0 victory over Tottenham at Stamford Bridge and was part of Chelsea's pre-season tour in America. However, with top-quality players like Reece James and Malo Gusto ahead of him in the right-back position, securing regular minutes in the first team poses a significant challenge.
Chelsea's management appears to be taking a firm stance on contract negotiations, evident in their approach with other academy stars like Conor Gallagher and Mason Mount. This situation has understandably led to speculation about Acheampong's future, with reports suggesting he is attracting interest from clubs abroad, including a surprising link to Spanish giants Real Madrid.
As the teenager navigates this uncertain period, he has expressed readiness for any first-team opportunities that may arise. However, with his current status, fans are left hoping that this situation does not lead to a surprise exit, as Chelsea looks to secure the future of another talented academy product.
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