08 April 2016
Ahead of this weekend’s trip to face Milan at the San Siro, Massimiliano Allegri took the opportunity to warn his players that this season’s Scudetto race is far from over.
Napoli’s defeat at the hands of Udinese last Sunday, a result which saw the Bianconeri increase their advantage over the Partenopei to six points, resulted in certain sections of the media deeming the 2015/16 Serie A title tussle a foregone conclusion - a view the Tuscan tactician was quick to play down when meeting journalists this afternoon.
He is, however, confident that his players will not let outside observations affect their mentality at such a crucial point in their campaign, and is subsequently backing them to do the business when they lock horns with Europa League-chasing Milan tomorrow night.
Here is a selection of Allegri’s views ahead of the encounter:
Scudetto race
“There’s still a lot to be done and the Scudetto is yet to be won, even though I’ve been hearing all week that it’s in the bag. The mathematics state that we still haven’t achieved anything. Our advantage could result in a drop in tension, but that won’t happen. My players are responsible and fully aware of the importance of tomorrow’s game and its potential dangers.”
Milan
“Milan are a good team and have enjoyed good results against Fiorentina and in the derby against Inter. Along with the Coppa Italia they have a Europa League spot to chance. They’ll also want to unleash all the nervous energy they’ll have following a week’s training camp.”
Dybala and Rugani
“Dybala will miss out on our trip to Milan. He’s in reasonably good shape but I don’t want to risk him at this moment in time, seeing as it’s the first injury he’s suffered in his career. He’ll be back training alongside the first team on Wednesday. Rugani will more than likely start. He’s gaining experience and subsequently growing in confidence.”
