Massimiliano Allegri has spoken publicly for the first time since his departure from Juventus was confirmed 10 days ago, appearing via video call at the ‘Informateen’ event at the CONI headquarters in Rome to speak about Bianconeri midfielder Nicolo Fagioli on Monday.
Allegri spoke about Fagioli’s experiences over the last eight months, while he has been banned from playing competitively. The 23-year-old was suspended back in October for breaching the league’s rules on gambling.
Fagioli has since made his return to the Juventus matchday squad, and appeared in the Old Lady’s final two matches of the Serie A season, appearing off the bench against Bologna, and starting the final game of the season against Monza over the weekend.
What Allegri said about Fagioli
“Nicolo Fagioli, along with the Federation, have been on an important journey,” Allegri said at the event in the capital on Monday.
“He’s coming out of it in the best possible way, he has understood that he can be an example in other kids’ futures. The more we get on the youngsters, the more information we provide them with, the more likely they are to lead a good life.”
“There are fewer kids who play sports that teach good values, discipline and respect. That keeps you away from danger. Us coaches must act as a point of reference, we have to help kids who need psychological help. That is crucial.”
Allegri dismissal
Allegri has been out of work for 10 days now, having been sacked by Juventus in the aftermath of the club’s victorious Coppa Italia final against Atalanta.
The club felt that Allegri had not acted compatibly with “the values of Juventus and those who represent the club.”
Allegri lost his temper on the Stadio Olimpico touchline during the Coppa Italia final, and then went on to make a series of alleged threats towards Tuttosport editor Guido Vaciago in the tunnel after the full-time whistle.
The coach had been under contract until 2025, and it was rumoured that he could be dismissed over the summer, however Juventus took action sooner than that, and let Allegri go with two games of the 2023-24 season remaining.
Juventus remain in talks with Bologna coach Thiago Motta over an appointment this summer.
#Juventus, riecco #Allegri: "#Fagioli può essere un esempio. Noi allenatori dobbiamo essere un riferimento" https://t.co/cV0RWSZS5F
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