16h49 CET
10/01/2025
Thiago Motta stressed the need for Juventus to put together a run of victories after recording more draws than any other Serie A side this season.
Juventus have had a mixed campaign so far. They are currently unbeaten after 18 league games for only the third time. However, they sit fifth in Serie A having recorded 11 draws, and are 12 points behind leaders Napoli.
This weekend's game marks the 183rd Turin derby in all competitions since 1929-30 - since 2000, Juventus have only lost one of their 36 official matches against Torino (W27 D8).
Juve have also kept three successive clean sheets against Torino in the league. They have not managed at least four shutouts in a row since a streak of 10 between 2002 and 2014.
Motta insisted the team had improved under his management this season, but acknowledged they needed to start earning more wins.
"It's essential for us to find continuity in our results. We need to improve and give our best every day to achieve victory," Motta told reporters on Friday.
"In these 26 matches, we've only lost twice [once in the Champions League and in the Supercoppa Italiana semi-final] with a very young squad."
Motta confirmed that Dusan Vlahovic, Juventus' top scorer in the league this season (seven), Francisco Conceicao, and the suspended Manuel Locatelli would be unavailable for the Torino match, with Douglas Luiz potentially getting a chance in midfield.
Working towards Saturday’s Derby della Mole
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Since joining Juventus from Aston Villa in June, the Brazilian has made just nine Serie A appearances, two of which were starts. He is yet to register any goals or assists in the competition, but has created nine chances in 294 minutes on the field.
"He [Douglas Luiz] is a high-level midfielder who can play in the three positions we use," said Motta.
"He can score goals and provide the final pass, he has creativity, and he knows how to build up. He can do more defensively, like everyone else. He can cover three positions and have freedom in a context."
Motta also hinted at appointing a new captain, with veteran defender Danilo seeking to leave the club, according to reports.
"Without Manu [Locatelli], you will see who is the captain tomorrow," Motta said.
"What matters is the recognition from the team-mates. The coach observes and tries to show the right path to becoming a leader, especially by setting an example.
"There is always room for new leaders who are developing."