Coach Massimiliano Allegri says that it's ‘the norm for Juventus to be among Europe’s Last 16, and that the Europa League isn’t under consideration.
The Bianconeri are looking to rid themselves of a reputation as European underperformers by qualifying for the Champions League knockout stages with a result against Atletico Madrid tomorrow.
Ahead of that match that they require at least a draw from, Juve’s Coach has reflected on expectation and pressure.
Coach Massimiliano Allegri says that it's ‘the norm for Juventus to be among Europe’s Last 16, and that the Europa League isn’t under consideration.
The Bianconeri are looking to rid themselves of a reputation as European underperformers by qualifying for the Champions League knockout stages with a result against Atletico Madrid tomorrow.
Ahead of that match that they require at least a draw from, Juve’s Coach has reflected on expectation and pressure.
“As far as the game goes, the objective for tomorrow is qualifying for the Last 16,” Allegri has told today’s pre-match Press conference.
“Of course we must do everything we can to try and win it, though winning with a two-goal differential won't be easy because they are a team that doesn't allow for many goal-scoring chances.
“They are also very strong on free-kicks.”
Should Juventus fail to qualify, they would still take part in the knock-out stages of the Europa League, but that's a prospect that Allegri considers to be very distant.
“I don't even think about the Europa League, I don't take it into consideration.”
The Old Lady's Coach was also asked about the current differences between Juventus and Atletico Madrid.
“I think they are two excellent teams. Atletico have achieved some great, outstanding results.
“Let us not forget that they won La Liga and they lost a final [the Champions League] that they were on the verge of taking away.
“I think Juventus are a team that is doing – and has done – some great things in the Italian League.
“The club has played several Champions League Finals. It falls within the norm that Juventus should now return to the Last 16, and it's very important.”
Claudio Marchisio stressed the importance of going into the game with a winning mentality, though Allegri understands there can be some dangers to that approach.
“We did that in Madrid too, there we did well and then made one mistake and we were punished.
“Tomorrow's game is going to be different, we will play at home, we'll have all of our supporters behind us until the end. I am certain that they'll give us a substantial push.
“Besides, it's such an important game that we'll come into it with great desire, great enthusiasm and especially a great strength to try and win it. Of course, we might still come second even if we win.”
Carlos Tevez is certain to start as a striker, but the tactician said he is still uncertain whether Fernando Llorente or Alvaro Morata will partner him up-front.
“I still haven't decided who's going to play tomorrow. One of the two will certainly play. I will choose tomorrow morning.”