Eusebio Di Francesco was impressed with Sassuolo’s performance against Juventus, despite missing key figures.
Only a Paulo Dybala stunner made the difference in the 1-0 result, though Domenico Berardi, Gregoire Defrel, Simone Missiroli, Karim Laribi and Paolo Cannavaro were all absent.
Eusebio Di Francesco was impressed with Sassuolo’s performance against Juventus, despite missing key figures.
Only a Paulo Dybala stunner made the difference in the 1-0 result, though Domenico Berardi, Gregoire Defrel, Simone Missiroli, Karim Laribi and Paolo Cannavaro were all absent.
“The team retained the same basic shape and approach despite missing some very important players. I had few options in attack and in the end gave the Serie A debut to a 17-year-old,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
“We had some good chances to get back into the game, but didn’t finish them off. We had several promising counter-attacks and I wanted more pressure from wide especially down Matteo Politano’s side.
“I liked the attitude towards the end and we spent the last 25 minutes in Juve’s half, which is not an easy thing to do in Turin.
“I don’t like grasping for alibis, but obviously a Coach is happier when he has options at his disposal to choose from.
“I am very relaxed when I see my team play with this mentality and this style of football. This too is part of the growth process, as we are learning that we can play like this in any arena.
“I was surprised by Juve playing with three at the back and in my view they feared us. They are a very strong side, both mentally and tactically, while Gigi Buffon is a guarantee back there. The club’s strength also helps give young players remarkable self-belief.”
Di Francesco has been linked to some big clubs for next season, including Milan.
“I have only Sassuolo in my mind and the club seems happy to continue with me too. Has anyone called me to meet for coffee? Just my wife.
“I am a Coach trying to give my best to this club. I am much more focused on the team than myself, but obviously I am a Coach and therefore want to test myself at the highest levels.
“I think the most important issue if I were to think of changing club is that many sides need to really carefully consider choosing their Coach.”