Antonio Conte knows the Turin Derby is open to any result, including an early Scudetto party. “It’s the title of ferocity, hunger and consistency.”
Antonio Conte knows the Turin Derby is open to any result, including an early Scudetto party. “It’s the title of ferocity, hunger and consistency.”
The Bianconeri could mathematically seal the title this weekend if they beat Torino and Napoli fail to defeat Pescara. Click here for the Serie A match previews.
“The derby is always an important game, especially between two teams who play attacking football constructed on possession and ideas,” said the Coach.
“They are particular events and I remember two, when we won the Scudetto and Toro were relegated, yet we lost both editions. That proves the strength on paper counts for nothing.
“The derby can never be a game like the others and the rivalry is a wonderful thing, having two teams from the same city in the top flight. It’s great seeing Toro back at a strong level, even if the table shows they are still fighting for survival. We know that we are facing an excellent team and must be extremely focused.
“In a derby, the determination counts just as much as the tactics. Torino will be very motivated and we must match them. We’re ready for this game under every aspect.
“Of course I hope both Juve and Toro can achieve their objectives this season. Could there be crowd trouble if we win the Scudetto tomorrow? The fact we’re considering that is reason to be ashamed. Besides, we got insulted and had things thrown at us everywhere we went.
“I have had a house in Turin for years and now consider myself an adopted Torinese. I have the utmost respect for Torino and their fans.”
Now 11 points clear of Napoli at the top of the table and potentially able to secure the title this weekend, Conte is finally letting his guard drop when discussing this subject.
“This Scudetto is extraordinary because it’s not easy to reiterate success in Italy, especially if you start as favourites. If the title does arrive, then it will be the title of ferocity, hunger, determination, consistency – all things we proved that we have more of than the others.”
The Coach was asked about next season, including the links with Luis Suarez and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
“It is disrespectful to discuss transfers right now, so any questions you have about that should be aimed at director Beppe Marotta,” shrugged Conte.
“Serie A remains among the most difficult in the world, even if the so-called ‘top players’ aren’t as present. It is inevitable that they’ll go where they get incredible wages and in Italy clubs cannot afford contracts worth €10m per season.”
Juve were beaten 4-0 on aggregate by Bayern Munich in the Champions League, but the Germans thrashed Barcelona 4-0 in just the semi-final first leg this week.
“The Germans confirmed their strength against Barcelona. However, that game should not console us. We have to aim high, because we are Juventus. We understood our current status, but that just means we have to improve.”