Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri is happy with the developments of Federico Chiesa and Paul Pogba but reveals Moise Kean will miss tomorrow’s Serie A game against Udinese while Dusan Vlahovic is not fully fit.
The Bianconeri are preparing for the first Serie A game of the season at the Dacia Arena in Udine, where they ended the 2022-23 campaign.
“I am happy with the current squad, the lads are working really well. Games will be different from tomorrow, and we’ll see where we can get,” Allegri said in his first pre-match press conference of the season.
“The team has ample room for improvement and we must finish in the top four.”
Juventus were excluded from the Conference League for financial irregularities, so they will only be involved in Serie A and Coppa Italia this term.
“Technically our way of working will change, it’s bitter not to play in the Champions League, I’ve been in this competition for 14 years. It’s a source of pride and it’s not nice to be involved,” said Allegri. “We must do our best to qualify for it and play in the Champions League next season.”
Cristiano Giuntoli was appointed as the club’s new Football Director a few months ago and Allegri was asked his thoughts on the ex-Napoli director.
“I am on good terms with Giuntoli and Giovanni Manna. They are working well and he [Giuntoli] is an important figure for the club. He is settling in well,” he said.
There are many expectations on Federico Chiesa who didn’t play consistently last season due to recurrent physical problems.
“Chiesa is more aware and serene than last season. He had a difficult year and now his legs are different,” noted the Juventus boss.
“Vlahovic has had highs and lows, he had groin issues this summer, but now he feels better. He is not fully fit. He missed some games during the pre-season. Kean won’t be available, he had a knock and won’t play. We have Yildiz who comes from the youth sector and is really good. I am happy with my strikers.”
Pogba scored in a friendly against Alessandria earlier this week and could be called up for the game in Udine.
“I am also happy with Paul’s last few days,” admitted Allegri.
“He is a different player from the others, but he hasn’t played for one and a half years. It would be ideal to have him available every day. Hopefully, his condition can improve. Today, I will decide if he’ll come to Udine.”
The Italian tactician also had his say on the Serie A title favourite and Roberto Mancini’s resignation as Italy’s boss, followed by Luciano Spalletti’s appointment.
“The defending champions are the favourite, so Napoli. Inter are strong, same as Milan and Lazio, but we haven’t even started yet. Surely we have to improve in away games. Napoli collected 15 points more than us away last term.
“I can’t make comments [about Mancini’s resignation]. Roberto did an excellent job with the national team. Good luck to Spalletti. It’s an important appointment after winning the title.”