Max Allegri praised Aaron Ramsey in a new role in front of the defence, shutting down Miralem Pjanic reports by insisting the Welshman can ‘become an important player’ for Juventus there.
The Bianconeri beat Monza 2-1 this evening to win the Trofeo Berlusconi, with goals from Under-23 midfielder Filippo Ranocchia and Sweden international Dejan Kulusevski.
“Kulusevski has potential, but he needs to improve a lot,” the coach told Mediaset.
“After all, he’s only 21 and has to be more determined in front of goal, much more effective when attacking the goal. He shouldn’t always go for the inside of the foot or try placing it, sometimes you need to put your foot through it.”
Nicolò Fagioli was already spotted by Allegri during his first Juventus tenure, so has the 20-year-old improved since then?
“He came on and had a good second half, he was active, clean and I saw progress. We’ll evaluate with the club what to do.
“These are young players who lack experience, they sometimes feel ashamed of kicking the ball away, but you have to do that sometimes during a match situation. We need to teach them some of the tricks of the trade.”
Naturally, Allegri was asked about the reports Pjanic is desperate to leave Barcelona and ready to take a pay cut in order to make the reunion happen.
However, the tactician spent the time praising Ramsey, who was today tested in a new role for the 4-3-3 formation.
“I don’t know about that. The club takes care of the transfer market, we talk every day. Ramsey played very, very well in front of the defence and I think in that role he can really become an important player.
“I salute Mire, because we spent four years together with great victories. He is a Barcelona player now, we have talented players, and I think if Ramsey can be convinced to play in front of the defence, he can really do well there. He already can see passing channels, has a good sense of the geometry of the field and can also rest on the ball more than he does upfront.”
Cristiano Ronaldo and Paulo Dybala were left behind in Turin to work on their fitness levels.
“Ronaldo arrived with enthusiasm, like everyone. Dybala has a muscular problem on his left foot, so the stronger one. He should be at our disposal against Barcelona along with everyone else, who should come on Monday. At that point, we’ll have 20 days together to prepare the season.”