Max Allegri insists this has not been a negative season for Juventus, as without the 10-point penalty they would be in third place. ‘I am not negotiating any termination.’
The Bianconeri finished the season with a 1-0 victory away to Udinese, sealed by a Federico Chiesa solo strike, but it was not enough to climb further up the table than seventh because Roma and Atalanta also won this evening.
The coach immediately seemed in a bad mood when talking to Sky Sport Italia and did not want to discuss the game at all.
“I am not talking about the match, nor the third place, which was an improvement on last season,” said Allegri.
He continues to argue Juve are in third because without the 10-point penalty for artificially inflating transfer fees to boost capital gains, they would currently be in third place ahead of Inter and Milan.
“I just came here to thank the lads and all those who worked with me at the Continassa training camp. I am truly proud of this team, these men, players, kit staff, physios and everyone who worked all year with professionalism and patience. We end the season here. The rest does not count.”
It has been a complicated campaign, with Juve first docked 15 points, then that decision was suspended following an appeal, and eventually the penalty was 10 points.
“This was a difficult year, but also a wonderful one. The game was largely irrelevant, I just want to thank all those who worked with me at the Continassa.”
Sky Sport Italia pundits pointed out it was curious he continued to specify those who worked at the Continassa camp, as that might exclude the club hierarchy who have their offices elsewhere. Is that a sign he felt isolated?
“No, I felt protected. The club was close to me. The season is over and we are all tired. There were some mistakes, but we were also fortunate to make the most of the great work from the youth team, so there were positives too.
“The 10-point penalty was not our fault, so I took the team to third place on the field and nobody can take that away from me.”
Speaking to DAZN, Allegri was clearer on his view of the campaign and what the future holds.
“From tomorrow, I am going to the beach. I am not looking for any alibis, there are three facts here: third place, Coppa Italia semi-final and Europa League semi-final.
“The club has to make plans and when that has been done and I get indications, we will start from there. I will be at the disposal of the club, as I always have been.”
Asked specifically if he is negotiations for an early exit, Allegri was adamant.
“I am not discussing any contract termination, I still have two years on the deal.”