Massimiliano Allegri expects his Juventus to play seriously against a cynical and cunning Villarreal in tomorrow’s Champions League Round of 16 clash.
Unai Emery’s side host the Bianconeri tomorrow at the Estadio de la Cerámica in the first leg of the knockout tie. The removal of the away goals rule means that there is no major incentive for Allegri’s side to push desperately for a goal, so it’s possible that he’ll set up his squad with this in mind.
Speaking to Mediaset today, Allegri first discussed the physical condition of a number of his players.
“Rabiot’s fine, he’s available as is Bonucci. Dybala and Rugani remain out.”
He highlighted how Villarreal are a difficult and cynical side to face.
“Very. Because the coach is clever and cunning. We need a serious match, a Champions League match to be played with great calmness and focus.”
The Italian coach commented on what’ll change following the injury to Paulo Dybala.
“It’s not a question of the formation, they play a bit differently. We’ll have to be good at managing the ball, which is something we’ll have to improve on.”
Allegri spoke about how tomorrow’s match will be Dusan Vlahovic’s Champions League debut.
“He’s a youngster who has zero international experience, he’s making his debut tomorrow and so we need to help him, he’ll help the team. It’s a path of growth for him and for the whole team.”
He confirmed that Leonardo Bonucci will not be starting against Villarreal.
“No, he’s not ready to play from the start, but I’m happy he’s available.”
The former Milan coach gave his thoughts on new signing Denis Zakaria and the months ahead of Juventus.
“He’s a good and intelligent player, he’s doing well. He has understood where he’s come from and has immediately made himself available.
“It’s a long journey for us, we want to get through this complicated Round of 16, then we have to continue in the league and then the Coppa Italia semi-final. We have three good months to play for.”
Finally, Allegri discussed the removal of the away goal rule.
“On a mathematical level you have to have a draw away and a win at home or the other way round. We have to think about tomorrow’s game, trying to get a good result.”
Juve, #Allegri: "Villarreal molto insidioso, serve partita seria. Bonucci è recuperato". #SportMediaset https://t.co/yb9F3lY2Rm pic.twitter.com/YZcEvwvtMS
— SportMediaset.it (@sportmediaset) February 21, 2022
I will be watching and falling asleep after 5 minutes.
Feels like his code to “park the bus and hoping for a luck”