28 January 2017
Sassuolo manager Eusebio Di Francesco has emphasised that he only has eyes for victory in tomorrow’s match against Juventus at the Mapei Stadium.
The Neroverdi may only have half the number of points (24) compared to the league leaders (48), but Di Francesco is keen for his charges to collect a third successive Serie A win on Sunday as they look to move away from the relegation battle at the bottom of the table.
“Juve are favourites, but we’re determined to make up for lost ground this term,” opened the 47-year-old.
“We need to put as many points on the board as possible, starting tomorrow. I won’t accept any defeatist attitudes before a ball’s even been kicked. Setting out for a draw would also be the wrong approach in my opinion.
“We’re pretty good at making the most of the chances that come our way, but I’m also aware that Juventus are top of the league and they don’t give much away at all.”
Di Francesco admitted that perhaps the hardest part about taking on the champions was that even if opposite number Massimiliano Allegri opted to rest anyone, he still has a bench brimming with quality.
“They’ll probably tinker with the line-up from Wednesday night, but they’ve still got danger all over the park and plenty of strength in depth.
“Juve always set out to be aggressive, whatever formation they go with. At home they can be devastating and Allegri is able to change things up during matches as they’ve players who are very flexible to different systems.
“I’ll be making sure my boys are prepared to take on a team full of individual talent, such as Juan Cuadrado – a guy with outstanding ability who can play in almost any position and always has a smile on his face. I have a lot of time for people with his sort of positive energy.”
