Former Roma and Inter forward Antonio Cassano criticized Max Allegri for his tactical approach, saying the Juve coach should have left last year. El Pibe de Bari has never been one to mince his words, and speaking on ‘RAI programme La Domenica Sportiva’ (via Internews.it), Cassano took aim at Allegri, Juventus, and even Rafa Leao, who he has been critical of numerous times in the past:
“This year, Inter is much stronger, but since Allegri relies on results and hasn’t won anything, he should take a step back. He should have done it already a season ago,” Cassano remarked. He didn’t mince words, criticizing Juventus’ performance despite having 17 national team players and spending €160 million. “They play terribly, the players can’t string three passes together. When Allegri says Juventus should aim for fourth place, he’s mocking everyone. Look at Bologna, playing wonderful football with just €1.50 spent. Milan won the Scudetto with players like Krunic, Bennacer, Calabria, Kalulu, but Juventus was considered stronger,” he added. Cassano also highlighted Napoli’s transformation, shedding three starters and gaining a 20-point lead. He compared the treatment of coaches Pioli and Allegri, suggesting a need for attitude change to prevent Serie A from becoming one of Europe’s worst leagues.
Transitioning to Leao, Cassano didn’t hold back his criticism, contrasting him with Lautaro Martinez. “He thinks he’s a phenomenon, and some even believe it. For me, he’s just a good player; I haven’t changed my mind. For five and a half months, he hasn’t scored a goal in a league as ‘fake’ as Serie A. Years ago, he would have struggled to play for the sixth or seventh team in Serie A. Look at Lautaro. He’s a true champion. He fights, scores goals, makes assists, tackles; he’s a leader in every sense.”
Cassano didn’t spare Mourinho either, following his departure from Roma and De Rossi’s arrival as coach. “As a coach, Mourinho is completely past his prime; he can’t coach anymore. He’s stuck ten years ago. He didn’t play Paredes and preferred Bove over Pellegrini. De Rossi has instilled confidence in Roma, which is strong and doing an extraordinary job. He’s a born leader.”
