Juventus may not have a ‘top player’ in their forward ranks, but Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes thinks they are a stellar attacking force.
Juventus may not have a ‘top player’ in their forward ranks, but Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes thinks they are a stellar attacking force.
The Bianconeri are often criticised for lacking that difference maker up front, but the German has the greatest respect for the Italian champions ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final tie.
“Juventus are a side who are only part Italian,” the tactician stated on Monday. “They don’t play catenaccio and they have a very particular offensive organisation.
“I have rarely seen an Italian side who are so organised, so unpredictable, when they move forward,” he underlined.
Heynckes added that he fears what the Old Lady are capable of thanks to their three central midfielders.
“They have midfielders who do break into attack a lot of the time. As a result we will have to organise ourselves as best we can because Juventus attack very well.
“Andrea Pirlo is a genius, while Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio are great champions. We have players of that level too though.”
Juventus have been out of the Champions League since 2009, when they were last beaten in the competition by Bayern Munich.
“Juventus are a special opponent, a well structured side,” the tactician continued. “All teams have their weaknesses, us included. But I don’t think I should tell you what they are.
“I’ve gone to watch Juventus recently because I want to be perfectly prepared. This past week I’ve gone to sleep thinking of the Old Lady and woken up thinking about her.
“Juve are one of the greats in Europe, it’ll be a well balanced game.
“We are expecting a game played at great rhythm, velocity and aggressiveness – all the ingredients for a great match.”