Max Allegri explains his Juventus changes for the Maccabi Haifa trip in this must-win Champions League game, revealing he had intended to make even more surprising picks.
It kicks off at the Sammy Ofer Stadium at 17.45 UK time (16.45 GMT).
The Bianconeri consider this a must-win match, as Maccabi Haifa are bottom of the Champions League group on zero points, while Juve are on three, Benfica and PSG both have seven.
There is also added pressure on Allegri after the 2-0 Serie A defeat to Milan on Saturday evening.
“The squad feels responsible, it won’t be an easy match in a passionate atmosphere, we need to maintain focus for 90 minutes and not keep having these blackouts that cost us dearly,” Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.
“We conceded two very avoidable goals in Milan and need to improve in terms of mentality.”
Allegri was asked about his somewhat surprising decisions for this evening, including leaving Filip Kostic and Gleison Bremer on the bench.
“Bremer played almost every game, so did Kostic, so I am trying to rotate the squad, as we need fresh energy after a few days. Rugani has played over 100 games for Juventus, so is reliable and will do well tonight.”
Allegri had been expected to rest Danilo, who is on a yellow card, and use Juan Cuadrado as right-back, but instead opts to use them both.
Meanwhile, Angel Di Maria was suspended against Milan in Serie A and returns here, having provided a hat-trick of assists in last week’s 3-1 victory.
“Di Maria is a player of great quality, so we always expect the best from him. It’s more important that the team is united, solid and doesn’t lose sight of the match.
“Moise Kean was meant to play, but he wasn’t in great shape yesterday, so I thought it best to at least keep him on the bench.”