Over the weekend, Sport Witness covered TuttoSport’s claims about Tottenham’s interest in Juventus defender Federico Gatti.
Spurs’ move for the Italian depended largely on Igor Tudor and if he stayed beyond the ongoing campaign. He is on a short-term deal but the newspaper brought Gatti’s good relationship with the manager to light.
Against AS Roma at the weekend, the defender shone for Juve. He scored a stoppage-time equaliser, having come off the bench only after 90 minutes. He also scored against Galatasaray in the second leg of the dramatic Champions League playoffs.
With doubts surrounding his future amidst talk of Tottenham, Gatti’s father has come out fighting for him.
Gatti fighting for Juve
The centre-back’s father Ludovic, spoke to TuttoSport about his son’s struggles in the last few months. He detailed his injury problems and what he had to come through to prove many wrong.
He said: “My son has had a rather unlucky year. Last season he paid the price for the injury he suffered in the spring, which affected him under Tudor. He’s carried some of that problem with him into this season too, then a bad flu stopped him in his tracks in November when Spalletti arrived, and finally the meniscus.”
Ludovic also praised the Italy defender’s attitude, making it clear that Luciano Spalletti isn’t playing him enough.
“Now he’s bitter because he wants to play more, but it would be strange if he didn’t: fortunately he doesn’t accept this fate, thank goodness, because professionals must always aim for the best.”
Gatti’s father also seemed to deliver a message to suitors like Tottenham, clarifying that the player wants to make a mark in Turin.
“He doesn’t care about a good contract: he wants to feel alive with the satisfaction of playing, so he’ll fight to get his place back.”
Gatti is a fighter
The 27-year-old has never been exceptional technically but as a pure defender, he has always done well. His recent rise also showcases his mentality, especially since Gatti never seemed like a nailed-on starter for Spalletti.
The defender has had quite a humble journey in the game and his fighting attitude shows that. Unfortunately, his shortcomings on the ball can let him down, as Spalletti usually prefers technically sound defenders.
While the player’s father wants the best for him, the Italy international could indeed be for sale.
His contract in Turin runs out in 2030 and this can prove lucrative for Juve. The Bianconeri paid an initial €7.5m to sign him in 2022 and if a club like Tottenham meets their asking price, the Old Lady would earn a major capital gain.
Tactically and financially, his exit will make sense for Spalletti’s side.