Massimiliano Allegri, coach of Juventus, declared this Monday at a press conference that “these are not foreseeable round of 16” and that “it is unlikely” that the Champions League tie against Villarreal will be decided this Tuesday at the Estadio de la Cerámica. And he added that “a tie would be a great result.”
“They are not a predictable round of 16, Villarreal have a good coach, they have technique, physicality and they also arrive at a good moment. We will have to take the game to our side with order, technique and patience. It is unlikely that this Tuesday will decide the tie”, Allegri said on the eve of the Champions League match against the Europa League champions.
Allegri revealed that Álvaro Morata and Dusan Vlahovic, the club’s new signing in the winter market, will play in attack, whom he defended from the criticism received after not scoring against Torino.
“This Tuesday Morata and Vlahovic play. I have some doubts in midfield. We must not give Vlahovic an excessive load of responsibility, tomorrow is his debut, let’s not forget it. I must protect him as I have done with others, he is 22 years old “said the Juventus coach.
read also
Allegri also said: “We play to win, both the Coppa Italia and the Champions League. I still don’t know how the new away goals rule affects us, but we have to focus on getting a good result on Tuesday.”
Juventus arrive at the clash at the Cerámica stadium diminished by the losses of Giorgio Chiellini and Paulo Dybala, and with their sights set on Leonardo Bonucci. “Bonucci trained with the team and felt no pain, having him available is a success, surely he will be ready for Saturday. Pellegrini is back, Rabiot has just received a blow, there is no problem,” assured the Juventus coach.
Allegri’s men drew against Torino (1-1) in the Turin derby and are fourth, with 3 points more than Atalanta (who have one less game and can therefore catch up with Juventus).
“The derby against Torino was a very hard-fought game, we played a good game, but you always need calm and balance in your analysis,” Allegri added.
“At the beginning of the championship, we would have lost against Torino. I am happy with the team’s approach, this Tuesday I want to see them play well with and without the ball. We will have to play well and have some luck,” said the Juventus coach.