Former defender Andrea Barzagli gave his thoughts on the state of Juventus this season, the work of Massimiliano Allegri and their title race with Inter.
The Bianconeri are not taking part in European competitions this season, following their settlement agreement with UEFA, allowing them to place full focus on their domestic obligations.
Juventus have performed well this campaign and currently sit in the top spots in the Serie A table, just two points behind league leaders Inter. Allegri’s side have picked up eight wins and two draws, suffering just one loss.
Speaking to La Stampa via TuttoJuve, Barzagli first discussed Juventus’ strong defensive work this season.
“We must never forget our defensive DNA. There are ways and means of defending, but we come from a great history based on not conceding goals. Mentally everyone, including the fans, would prefer to win 1-0 rather than 4-3.”
He spoke about Allegri’s work on this upswing in form.
“There is a lot of Max in this rebirth and the players are getting excited, from Rugani to Gatti, who is growing a lot, while Bremer is more consistent than a year ago.
“Allegri has been good at involving everyone and it helps having one match a week. Allegri has started again with new managers and a team with many internationals.”
The former defender commented on the secret behind the Bianconeri’s victories this term.
“Juve defend well as a team, the wingers are making the difference and then there is Locatelli, who is always in the right place.
“They are compact and good, also because they have been unbeaten for 540 minutes despite the absences of Danilo and Alex Sandro.”
He gave his thoughts on the title race with Inter this season.
“Juve scored many points, perhaps more than could’ve been expected. Inter are stronger because they have a quality and much larger squad, they’ve only conceded six goals and scored a ton. But they’re playing for it and Juve, quietly, are trying too.”
Finally, Barzagli spoke about Juventus’ relationship with Allegri and how that’s changed in recent years.
“There was a decline in love because they had gotten used to the Scudetti and were asking for something more.
“Now that Juve haven’t won, they think less about playing well and more about winning. Juve are not great to watch, but their compactness is their strength.”