Ahead of their match with Udinese, Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri once again reiterated that Inter are the favoutrites for the title. The Nerazzurri secured a 4-2 win over Roma on Saturday evening, regaining momentum and maintaing a four point gap at the top of the table. Speaking ahead of the match with Udinese, Allegri offered an update on his squad and possible formation, while also commenting on his record-setting stint with the Bianconeri, which now see’s him tied with Marcello Lippi for games managed as Juve coach:
“The group has worked well, as they do every week,” Allegri began. “Tomorrow, we must strive to return to winning ways against a team that, considering the quality of their squad and their recent performances, doesn’t deserve their current position in the table. We must show great respect; they possess physical strength and excellent players. Mentally, we are in a good state. Losing a direct clash is part of the game; one match doesn’t undo all the work we’ve put in over the past months.”
Reflecting on his 405 appearances on the Juventus bench, Allegri expressed satisfaction with reaching this milestone. “Let’s aim to finish this season well. I still have a year left on my contract, and the future will depend on the results. I’m very pleased to reach this milestone, joining a coach like Lippi, who has made history at Juventus and in Italian football.”
Addressing the team’s roster, Allegri provided updates on injured players. “Vlahovic has a minor adductor strain and should be available next week. Tomorrow, we’ll also have Cerri from the Next Gen squad. I’ll decide whether to field Yildiz or Chiesa. I expect Federico to deliver good performances and contribute to the team; he’s had some setbacks this year but remains an important player for us. Alex Sandro could feature tomorrow.”
Regarding Alcaraz, Allegri acknowledged the player’s potential but stated that he’s not yet ready to start. “He has room for improvement but already possesses excellent qualities. He will be very useful to us.”
On the title race, Allegri conceded that Inter is the frontrunner. “We didn’t need yesterday’s match to realize that Inter is the favorite. A win tomorrow would further distance us from fifth place and bring us four points behind Inter. They are doing extraordinary things. We must take it one step at a time and strive to do our best. The situation differs from Napoli’s years ago; Inter’s victory will motivate us even more. Tomorrow, we aim to return to winning ways. Our objective remains securing Champions League qualification. Tomorrow’s match won’t be decisive but is crucial. Inter will be the favorite until the end, and we must focus on our journey.”
Humorously, Allegri commented on his experience watching the Sanremo Festival. “I watched the game last night. I heard Angelina’s song, and then I fell asleep; at my age, I couldn’t stay awake any longer.”
