12 August 2017
“Balance”. This is the key word of coach Massimiliano Allegri, prior to the start of the new season. The first challenge of the Bianconeri will be tomorrow’s Italian Super Cup against Lazio at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico.
Here are the words of Mister Allegri from today’s pre-match press conference:
LIFE AFTER CARDIFF
“There was no disappointment after Cardiff, but great anger - an anger that must be used to face this season. We must be aware of our strength, but also know that we will have to work day after day.
"Two years ago, we played well in the Super Cup, but not at the start of the season, and this time we have to avoid doing the same. We need to make sure we have great balance and determination in focusing on our goals, in order to be competing on all three fronts come March 2018: the league, the Coppa Italia and the Champions League.”
WHAT TYPE OF GAME WILL JUVE-LAZIO BE?
“This is a final and a complicated match. Lazio have had an excellent pre-season, they haven’t lost any matches and have conceded very few goals. They have quality players, but the strength of Juventus has always been to have great respect for our opponents.”
YOUNG NEW FACES AT JUVE
“This year, a lot of young players have arrived. The club has done a good job working on a prosperous future that will give us continuity and a strong squad. When young players arrive at Juve, it is important they understand where they are, how important Juventus is and the world that they are representing.
"They have to understand that every single moment of every game is important, and this can only be learnt by forging their own path in the team and by looking up to the most experienced players in the dressing room.
"By following these role models, they will then be able to improve, integrate themselves immediately, and understand where they are.”
THE STARTING LINE-UP
“I have three or four doubts still, but the players that will definitely play are: Buffon, Higuain, Dybala, and Mandzukic.”
MY PLAYERS WIN THE MATCHES
“I was not an added value. I am a coach that, thanks to the players I have at my disposal, looks to do as little as possible. They are the guys that win games after all.
"If you have a gifted team, you have better chances of winning. If you don’t, then it’s more difficult.”
